06/05/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/05/2025 12:18
Key points
New digital technology is advancing career preparation for students in the health sciences at Dickinson State University (DSU). The school recently opened a lab with its first anatomy visualization table, which provides 3D representations of the human body and integrates data from more than 1,500 actual computerized tomography (CT) scans.
"The virtual cadaver table will be invaluable for showing students what particular disorders look like in real-life patients," said Dr. Liz Freedman Fowler, dean of the School of Applied Sciences.
A $25,000 grant from Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC) helped make the lab possible. This grant reflects the company's emphasis on strengthening the communities where it operates by addressing fundamental needs, including workforce development.
DSU nursing students examine a skeletal representation on the visualization table, which provides depictions of various diseases and disorders."I am proud to see this investment in hands-on, high-impact learning. This facility strengthens our commitment to providing top-tier, experiential learning opportunities that prepare our graduates for success."
"Meeting demand for medical professionals in rural areas can be challenging," said DeEll Jordre, lead human resources business partner for MPC's Dickinson renewable diesel facility. "By partnering with DSU to provide this technology, we are not only helping the school attract and train students, we are helping meet a vital need across the communities of this region."
The visualization table will support several DSU health science programs, such as nursing, medical and physical therapy, and exercise science.
"I am proud to see this investment in hands-on, high-impact learning," said Dr. Holly Gruhlke, vice president of academic affairs and provost. "The lab allows students to engage in advanced anatomical studies that will directly translate to their future careers in health care and science."
Dr. Liz Freedman Fowler, dean of the School of Applied Sciences, (right) points to a skeletal representation on the visualization table, which integrates data from more than 1,500 actual computerized tomography scans.The information from the CT scans helps form detailed depictions of various diseases and disorders, allowing students to explore symptoms, diagnoses and treatment methods. Students can also dissect tissue from the 3D models. Additionally, the visualization table simulates physiological functions, enabling students to observe how tissue behaves during bodily processes.
"This facility strengthens our commitment to providing top-tier, experiential learning opportunities that prepare our graduates for success," Gruhlke said.
The visualization table will help students in a wide range of DSU's health science programs, including nursing, medical and physical therapy, and exercise science.