![A doctor stands confidently, holding a clipboard in one hand and a stethoscope in the other, ready for patient care.](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2024-11/Top-Header.jpg.webp?itok=8YfCwQCG)
What is CEC?
The Comprehensive Education Center (CEC) at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson is dedicated to providing students with a robust education in health care and related fields. We offer a variety of resources and hands-on learning opportunities designed to foster academic growth and prepare students for successful careers in the ever-evolving health care landscape. Our programs combine cutting-edge research, practical experience and expert guidance to ensure that every student thrives.
![rl523](/sites/default/files/styles/az_natural/public/2024-11/rl523x7.png.webp?itok=jxhIpSIk)
highlights
![microscope line icon](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-11/highlight-1.png.webp?itok=2wR9RlZ_)
Ranked 49 in NIH Research Funding
![award line icon](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-11/highlight-3.png.webp?itok=OLOqqcuJ)
Ranked Tier 2 in Best Medical School
![target line icon](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-11/highlight-4.png.webp?itok=QI_lV8GA)
You can enter the workforce immediately after graduation
![stethoscope line icon](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-11/highlight-5.png.webp?itok=4wewp65q)
182 accredited specialties and subspecialties
MEET THE FACES BEHIND CEC
Learn more about the dedicated team driving our mission forward.
![Tejal M. Parikh, MD](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-12/Tejal.jpg.webp?itok=zF7dRNGd)
Tejal M. Parikh, MD
Associate Dean Admissions, Director, Comprehensive Education Center
![Rupa Murali](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-12/Rupa.jpg.webp?itok=F8_stve4)
Rupa Murali, MBA
Assistant Director, Enrollment Analytics and Recruitment, Comprehensive Education Center
![Anthony Aquino](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-12/Anthony.jpg.webp?itok=E69qzMe1)
Anthony Aquino
Coordinator, Undergraduate Recruitment, Comprehensive Education Center
![Paul R Gordon, MD, MPH](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2023-10/201802467-gordon-paul-13.jpg.webp?itok=G4qwhsTX)
![Todd Vandera, PhD](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-11/Todd-Vanderah.png.webp?itok=0oFoesk8)
![Joshua Gaither, MD, is an associate professor and EMS Fellowship director in the Department of Emergency Medicine.](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2023-10/20212201-Gaither_Hannan_klh6180.jpg.webp?itok=nJVRuqEm)
![Claudia Stanescu](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-12/Claudia.jpg.webp?itok=30q2PX9V)
![Zoe Cohen](/sites/default/files/styles/az_card_image/public/2024-12/cohen-topaz1.jpg.webp?itok=l1f_Eo1d)
Zoe Cohen, PhD
Director College of Medicine – Tucson Baccalaureate Programs and APME