East Carolina University (ECU) is constructing a new, state-of-the-art Center for Medical Education Building. This New Ecu facility will significantly enhance the Brody School of Medicine’s educational capabilities and support the growth of future medical professionals. The new building will be connected to the existing Brody Medical Sciences Building.
New ECU Facility to Support Medical Student Growth
The seven-story, 195,000-square-foot Center for Medical Education Building signifies a new era for medical education at ECU. This new ECU development, funded by the N.C. General Assembly, will enable the Brody School of Medicine to increase its annual student intake from 86 to over 120. This expansion reflects the school’s commitment to addressing the growing need for physicians in North Carolina and beyond.
“This new facility’s impact on education, research, and regional health is immeasurable,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, dean of the Brody School of Medicine and CEO of ECU Health. The new ecu building will house “state-of-the-art classrooms, study spaces, anatomy labs, and simulation technology,” he added. This will allow faculty to provide an exceptional learning environment for the next generation of physicians. A new 500-car parking garage will also be built as part of the project.
Features of the New ECU Center for Medical Education
The new ECU building will feature a range of advanced learning spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation:
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Versatile Learning Studios: Two large learning studios will accommodate up to 500 people in lecture or banquet settings. These spaces can also be transformed into classrooms, meeting rooms, and seminar spaces, each with a capacity of up to 136.
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Collaborative Spaces: The building will include huddle rooms, pod-like collaboration areas, and small-group student spaces, promoting interactive learning and teamwork.
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Outdoor Amenities: A roof terrace and green space will provide students with areas for relaxation and informal gatherings.
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Simulation and Standardized Patient Programs: A dedicated space for simulation and standardized patient programs will allow students to develop critical clinical skills in a realistic environment.
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Student Houses: Four student houses will serve as common areas for studying, equipped with lockers, changing areas, and study carrels. These houses will foster a sense of community among students from all four years of the medical program.
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Expanded Anatomy Lab: A new gross anatomy space with 28 beds will provide ample space for hands-on anatomical training.
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Instructional Lab Classroom: A large instructional lab classroom with seating for up to 144 will support teaching in neurology, pathology, and immunology.
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Event Space: A dedicated lawn area will host special events and ceremonies.
Construction Timeline and Parking Changes
Construction of the new ECU Center for Medical Education Building is scheduled to begin in March 2025 and is expected to be completed by August 2027. Road closures and parking changes will be necessary during the construction period. Information regarding these changes is available on the ECU website.
The new ECU Center for Medical Education Building represents a significant investment in the future of medical education. This modern learning hub will provide students with the tools and resources they need to excel in their studies and become highly skilled physicians.
