Where should I park?

On the University of Iowa campus, parking is available at the Newton Road Parking Ramp. View a map of MERF and the Newton Road Parking Ramp here.

Upon check-in, you will receive a parking pass for the event; participants are required to pay for parking fees incurred beyond the time allotted by the parking pass. Parking rates at the University of Iowa are set by Parking and Transportation Services. Participants who may choose to park in metered parking are responsible for paying meters and any tickets received for illegal parking.

For events not held on the UI campus, parking will be available on-site nearby. More details will be shared upon registration.

How much does it cost to participate?

The 2025 Mini Medical School events are free for all attendees.

How often do you hold Mini Medical School events?

We host multiple community education programs locally, statewide, and nationally for the adult learner. The schedule for additional programs will vary from year to year. To view programs in your area, please visit our upcoming events page.

May I bring kids?

To provide an optimal experience for all participants, Mini Medical Schools are recommended for ages 16 and older as the content is at a higher level than most children under this age will be able to understand. Children are not recommended as they can sometimes be a distraction to their parents and others in the audience.

Will we receive printed copies of the presentation?

In an effort to be more environmentally conscious and to save on costs, we do not print copies of the presentations. If we receive permission from the presenters, the presentation slides will be made available online as well as any other supplemental information and handouts. 

Are refreshments served at your programs?

We offer refreshments prior to the program. The refreshments are as nutritious as possible and suits a wide range of preferences.

Why are the presentations available for download sometimes different than the presentations the speakers use?

Presenters sometimes make last-minute additions and adjustments to their presentations after they have been shared.

Why is video- or audio-taping of class sessions not always available?

Some Mini Medical School presentations are the intellectual property of our faculty members. Audio- or video-taping the Mini Medical School presentations constitutes an infringement of copyright laws. Our experts are happy to present their knowledge and research within the context of the Mini Medical School classroom setting and, in some cases, will allow us to record their presentation. 

What is offered during the pre-program sessions?

Prior to the Mini Medical School, we frequently offer the opportunity to participate in a variety of interactive activities, such as engaging with current medical students, exploring the latest in medical devices, or learning about current research projects.

Are continuing medical education credit or academic credits available to Mini Medical School students?

Formal credit is not available through Mini Medical School. However, you may submit information to your granting agency and request credit on your own.

Upcoming Events

Des Moines Mini Medical School – Collaboration is Power: The Future of Cancer Clinical Trials in Iowa promotional image

Des Moines Mini Medical School – Collaboration is Power: The Future of Cancer Clinical Trials in Iowa

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Iowa Hospital Association
Iowa has the second-highest and fastest-growing rate of cancer in the nation. What are cancer providers and experts doing to turn the tides? Join us for an interactive Mini Medical School Program to find out. This evening program in Des Moines will help you understand cancer trends in the state; explore how collaborations between cancer researchers, doctors, and hospital systems can advance care and provide options for patients; and learn how patients can get involved. Free to attend; registration required.