2021 Postbaccalaureate Premed Issue (Spring 2021) by PreMedLife Magazine

PREMEDLIFE

the postbac issue

Why non-traditional is the new traditional when it comes to medical school

Spring 2021

POSTBACCALAAUREATE PREMEDICAL PROGRAMS + Locations, Program Types, and Descriptions

PREMEDLIFE.COM

The Magazine For Pre-Medical Students

PREMEDLIFE Spring 2021

THE POSTBAC WAY

MOTHERHOOD

POSTBAC OR NAH

5 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE PURSUING A POSTBACCALAUREATE PROGRAM

A BLOG POST BY JESSICA, A MOTHER IN MEDICAL SCHOOL WHO SHARES A PERSONAL STORY

8 THINGS TO THINK ABOUT WHEN CONSIDERING A POSTBAC PREMED PROGRAM

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contents

SPRING 2021

There are several kinds of postbac programs designed to serve the needs of premed students. pg. 16

My Non-Traditional Path to Medical School

Personal Story: I’m a non-traditional med student and 1st generation physician in my family. I’m also a Florida boy who grew up playing ice hockey. I dreamed of playing professionally even when I was in college.

What Every Non-Traditional Medical School Applicant Needs to Know

Applying to medical school is a long and intricate process, even for traditional medical school applicants. Traditional medical school applicants typically know that they will apply to medical school after completing their undergrad, so they meet medical school admissions requirements with ease.

WHAT’S INSIDE...

2021 Guide to Postbaccalaureate Premed Programs

Last year, there were 53,0301 applicants to medical schools across the U.S. and close to one quarter of entering medical students complete a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program to gain admission. Here’s a list of several post-baccalaureate pre-medical programs across the country.

40 The Goods

A few items picked from our team with our pre-medical readers in mind. From therapy dough to an acts of kindness set.

What I Wish I Knew When Applying to Medical School

As an undergraduate student who joined the pre-medicine community a little later into my career, a post-baccalaureate program gave me the experience.

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Digital

SPRING 2021

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What’s on premedlife.com There’s a Medical School Application Surge

4 Ways to Recover from Post-MCAT Fatigue

This is How You Choose a Pre-Med Major

Over the past year, the number of applicants to MD schools increased by about 18%.

Some call it MCAT burnout or MCAT fatigue. Others call it a MCAT hangover.

Aspiring doctors must consider several factors to be successful

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From the

Publisher

KEEP PUSHING. Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow.’ - Mary Anne Radmacher The thing about perseverance is that it is the small things that will ultimately add up to something big, if that’s what it is you’re working towards. For pre-med students who embark on a journey that will take several

years to see the benefits of your hard work, the mental strength you need to keep going will need to be unwavering. However, the thoughts and the inner talk that you need to push thought he tough times doesn’t mean that there isn’t space for you to potentially hit a wall, but in that space it is important that you self reflect and know that it’s okay with not being okay. We’ve heard this a lot over the past unprecedented year that we’ve had. It’s important that you don’t compare your journey to others. There will be times during your journey when you are faced with obstacles, challenges, uncomfortable situations. It is during these times that it will count for you to tap into your ability to not give up. At PreMedLife, our goal is to support you and provide the tools and resources you may need to push ahead, get back up, and try one more time, many times over. Let us know how we can help? Give us your feedback on how we can support you better. What topics would you like to see covered? Let us know.

-Tasheema P.

Tasheema Prince Publisher @PrinceSheem tprince@premedlife.com

Tasheema Prince

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PREMEDLIFE the lifestyle magazine for premedical students www.premedlife.com

Founder & Publisher | Tasheema Prince CMO & Project Director | Ryley High Interns | Ihouma Otah & Christian Sitompul Find us on Twitter @premedlife Find us on Facebook.com/premedlife Here’s How to Reach Us: Kisho Media, LLC P.O. Box 10572 Rockville, MD 20849 Main (646) 571-8035 Have a Story Idea? Email us at editor@premedlife.com Want to Subscribe? Visit www.premedlife.com and sign-up to our mailing list to receive an email when the latest issue is available online Want to Join Forces? (a.k.a. Partner With Us) Email us at info@premedlife.com Advertising Inquiries? Email advertise@premedlife.com PreMedLife magazine is published six times per year by Kisho Media, LLC. and copies are provided to select colleges and universities free of charge. The information in PreMedLife magazine is believed to be accurate, but in some instances, may represent opinion or judgment. Consult your pre-medical/pre-health advisor with any questions you may have about the medical school admissions process and related topics. Unless otherwise noted, all articles, photographs, artwork, and images may not be duplicated or reprinted without express written permission from Kisho Media, LLC. PreMedLife magazine and Kisho Media, LLC. are not liable for typographical or production errors or the accuracy of information provided by advertisers. PreMedLife magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertising. All inquires may be sent to: Kisho Media, LLC. P.O. Box 10572 Rockville, MD 20849 To reach us by phone call (646) 571-8035 or email us at info@premedlife.com.

P/ THE GOODS

the postbac way 5 questions to ask yourself before pursuing a postbaccalaureate route

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Deciding to complete a postbaccalaureate pre-med program is a very important decision, but will it be beneficial to you? Or will it just be a waste of money? Keep on reading to see five questions you should ask yourself if a postbac is right for you.

Will this program benefit you in during rest of your premedical journey?

Does the program have resources that will benefit you and a good community that will rally behind you through this long journey? The location of the school and program details will be important tool make sure you will be successful at the school. Look up how students feel about the atmosphere of the school and try to visit there as well. What do they offer to benefit you? If you know you will need guidance with classes and next steps, what you current students say about their guidance program?

Can you financially afford the school?

Medical school is expensive enough as is and you will take out student loans, is it worth it to take out so many loans for a postbac? You know your own financial limits, but it is still worth it to save as much as possible in any way.

Are you prepared for the full length of the program?

Normally, Postbac programs take 8 to 24 months, and can be extremely demanding. Different circumstances can determine whether you can dedicate your time to a Postbac program. Family obligations, jobs, financial status, and other commitments can affect your decision. Ask yourself, are you able to minimize your workload to fully commit to an obligation like this? Does the program offer the support you may need? For many students, returning back to school can be a shock. It can be hard to navigate and cause more stress to someone’s life. Consider your academic, social, and emotional needs when choosing whether to pursue a Postbacc route. Having resources available during your journey to medical school can help support you to becoming academically successful. Think about tutors, advisors, other students who you can work together with, how large the program is, etc. Which program is right for you? There are a lot of postbacc programs out there, especially with the new world of online learning. Choosing the right program, school and path is crucial for your success as a postbac student.

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P/ PERSONAL STORIES

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MEDICAL SCHOOL +

MOTHERHOOD by Jessica (@faithfamilymedicine)

In a lot of ways being a parent prepared me for medical school. Medical school is exhausting yet rewarding. Medical school makes me doubt how smart I am, how capable I am, and how successful I’ll be years down the line. Medical school requires a LOT of energy, it requires the sacrifice of my sleep and mental space. Medical school reminds me that my life isn’t about me. It challenges me, pushes me, and strengthens me every day. Some days are hard, and I’m in tears about how I’m ever going to remember everything, be a good physician and payoff my massive student loan debt. And most days I wake up thankful for this incredible opportunity I’ve been given to study disease, health, and make a difference in the world. In a lot of ways, being a parent prepared me for this. Motherhood is exhausting yet rewarding. It makes me doubt how patient, kind, and knowledgeable I am. Motherhood requires a LOT of energy, it requires the sacrifice of my sleep and mental space. Motherhood reminds me that my life isn’t about me. It challenges me, pushes me, and strengthens me every day. Some days are hard, and I’m in tears about how I’m going to raise a good, kind human when the days are filled with time outs and crayons on the wall. And every day I wake up thankful for this incredible opportunity I’ve been given to share in laughs and watch a tiny person grow. Being a mom in medical school is absolutely challenging but in a lot of ways motherhood helped me walk through this academically hard year. Motherhood has taught me to let things go, that I won’t always be perfect, and that I can keep on pushing through. I’m Jessica (@faithfamilymedicine + www.faithfamilymedicine.net), and a wear a lot of hats in this season of life – mom, first year med student, wife, sister, daughter, friend, and dedicated volunteer. I’m incredibly passionate and live off of coffee and praying. At the end of the day, I really just want to make the world a happier, healthier, safer place for all and am giving 110% to make that happen. Instagram:

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If you can’t stop thinking about it...

...don’t stop working for it. www.premedlife.com

P/ THE POSTBAC ISSUE

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POST BAC OR NAH? 8 Things to Think About When Considering a Post-Bacc Pre-Med Program

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P/ THE POSTBAC ISSUE There are several kinds of postbac programs designed to serve the needs of premed students. Some programs aim to enhance students’ previous college records while others are for those who did not focus on science at the undergraduate level. There are also programs designed for groups underrepresented in the medical profession, and programs for those who are economically or educationally disadvantaged. In recent years, postbac programs have proliferated across the country. In the database of postbac programs maintained by the Association of American Medical Colleges (services.aamc.org/postbac), a total of 143 programs are indexed: 88 are record-enhancing; 84 are career-changing; 46 are designed for underrepresented individuals; and 30 are for the disadvantaged. Clearly, there is some overlap between programs; some serve a dual purpose. As a result of the various kinds of programs and the overlap between some, it can be confusing for prospective postbac students to figure out what is most important to look for in a program to help narrow down their options. It is vital to ensure that the program you are considering offers real benefits, no matter the kind of postbac program that is appropriate for your needs. Here are the most important elements to seek out when considering different programs, based on my experience directing two different postbac programs and guiding students through the medical school admission process for the past 20 years. GOOD ACADEMICS AND MCAT PREPARATION = SUCCESS RATES The academic preparation you receive is by far the most important element of any program. Whether you will be enrolling in basic, introductory science classes-as in the career-changer programs-or in upper-level courses-offered by the record-enhancing programs-you should make sure that the courses you take would not only prepare you for medical school but also equip you to do well on the MCAT. For all of these programs, no matter the type, the end goal for students is medical school admission. To get into medical school you need to perform well in your courses and do well on the MCAT. The classes should do double duty; they should give you the content you need and also give you the opportunity to prove yourself and perform well. The program should also offer MCAT preparation since it is a key component of the med school admission process. The program’s track record of getting people into medical school is, of course, enormously important. You want the postbac program in which you enroll to help you achieve the result you want: med school admission. The program’s success rate is a good measure of students’ capability of performing well in the classes and on the MCAT, resulting in med school admission. If the program’s track record is not published, ask specifically about its success rate in getting students into medical school. CLASS FORMAT: MIXED WITH UNDERGRADUATES OR SEPARATE Postbac programs offer classes in two formats: classes mixed with undergraduates or classes exclusively for postbac students. By default, the classes with undergraduates are larger, with usually a majority of undergrads. These courses are often graded on a curve. Classes for postbac students are often smaller; the grading scale can vary depending on the institution and the professor teaching the class. There are pros and cons to each format, depending on your learning style and goals. Do you want to prove yourself by taking regular premed classes with undergraduates? Or would you prefer to be in a smaller setting among only postbac students, all with a similar focus? Determine your learning style and what kind of grading scheme suits you, and you will be able to select the format which you prefer. Find out whether the classes offered in the programs you are considering are mixed with undergraduates or only for postbac students. When you visit various programs ask the students about the class format and whether it is productive and conducive to learning. ACADEMIC SUPPORT It is important to assess the academic support services in place at the programs you are considering. The postbac year is challenging and students often encounter difficulty in their coursework at some point or another. It is in your best interest to know if there is a safety net in place if you run into academic challenges. Does the program itself offer free tutoring services, in either group or individual formats? Or is tutoring provided through the undergraduate academic advising office? If so, is

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tutoring readily available or on a first-come, first-serve basis? These are important questions to ask. Ensure that your chance of success is maximized by the programmatic structure and sources of academic support that buttress students. ADVISING Getting through the medical school application process is complicated. When looking at various programs, make sure that the program director and advising staff have ample experience with the medical school admission process. While a proven track record for the program speaks for itself, along with testaments from former students, you should be given ample opportunity to interact with current and former students in order to ask questions about the advising process directly from those who are receiving it. Bear in mind that current students haven’t yet gone through the med school application process; the most salient information about the advising services in any program comes from alumni who have completed the med school application process. Former students will share with you detailed information about the advising offered and whether it helped them both navigate the medical school application process and get into medical school. You should also consider the student: advisor ratio in programs you are considering. Is the program small enough that you will get personalized advising and guidance? Remember that the program director will be your greatest advocate in the medical school application process. It is important that she or he has enough advising time to understand you and your goals, and be able to advocate for you with validity. Is the advising structure formal, with one or two structured individual sessions per semester? Or is advising dispensed on a more informal, drop-in basis, as needed? Does the program offer special events featuring medical school admissions deans with whom you can interact and learn about various schools? To help you understand some of the challenges and rewards of the medical profession, are there topics of interest covered in meetings designed specifically for postbac students? These are important questions to ask to ensure that you know what to expect after enrollment. Be sure to get a good sense of the advising opportunities each program provides, in addition to the basic elements of the academic requirements you need, along with MCAT preparation. MEDICAL EXPERIENCE It’s likely that you will have some medical experience prior to enrolling in a postbac program. After all, you need clinical experience to test out and confirm your impulse to pursue a career in medicine. It is vital to keep engaged with the medical profession as you go through your postbac courses. You need to prove to the med schools your continuing commitment, and being engaged in clinical care helps keep you focused on your end goal amidst the stress of a heavy load of courses. Postbac programs should help hook you into the medical community in the area. They should have formal arrangements with local clinics or hospitals that allow you to immediately engage in clinical work. Some programs will also offer opportunities to conduct research. Is there a mechanism in place whereby you can assess the opportunities in the area and connect with practitioners? Do these practitioners have enough prior experience guiding students that they provide good mentoring? Does the program provide ways for you to gauge one experience vs. another to see which might be the best fit for you? Talking with current and former students is an excellent way to figure out how the program connects you to clinical or research opportunities in the region. Program staff should be an excellent source to direct you to the best sites for your needs. Program directors should also have a comprehensive understanding of the various medical sites in order to properly guide students to the best setting to expand their view of the medical profession. LETTERS The letters written on your behalf when you apply to medical school are enormously important. These letters attest to your work ethic, academic capabilities, character, and personality traits, among other elements. They round you out as an applicant, fleshing you into a “real” person; they help the med schools picture you as a viable candidate. As such, the letters can help you progress from the applicant stage to the interview and acceptance stages in the med school admission process. It is important to assess the letter process in place at the programs you are con-

THE POSTBAC ISSUE sidering. Usually the program director will write the premed letter but in some programs the faculty will take precedence. Prior to enrollment you should know who will be in charge of your premed letter. Whether it’s the program director or a faculty member, you should assess the kinds of opportunities the letter writers will have to get to know you. Will they, in the end, know you well enough to paint an accurate picture of you with their words? In addition to the letter from the program director or faculty chair, you will also need additional letters from science faculty. Are the classes small enough that the faculty will be able to differentiate you from other students? Will they get a sense of you through individual meetings or office hours? Or will you have more interactions with teaching assistants than with professors? Again, you should ask current and former students about the opportunities they have to distinguish themselves in both the advising and academic arenas at the programs you’re considering; doing so will help you assess the strength and accuracy of the letters that will be written on your behalf. COMMUNITY Going through a postbac program can be enormously challenging. For career-changer students the courses are compressed into a short time frame and students are generally encountering science for the first time. It takes a great deal of stamina and energy to complete all of the premed courses in a year, especially when the material is new and difficult. Having a strong community to help you persevere is helpful. Relying on your peers for moral and social support is beneficial and often helps students weather difficult phases. The same is true for record-enhancing and other programs: having peers to rely on and turn to when the going gets rough is vital. Having supportive fellow students to help one another, sharing study skills and tips, is vital. Ask current and former students about the

sense of community at the programs you are considering. What do the director and program staff members do to help build community and create a supportive environment? In the end, though, no matter the efforts of the program, its students build the community. Asking students about the atmosphere will help you assess whether students are competitive with one another or supportive, thereby fostering and celebrating one another’s successes. FINALLY, ASK STUDENTS! While program directors can provide useful information, there is no greater source of information than the students themselves. Students will provide valuable information as to the caliber of the classes and professors, the difficulty level, the nature of the environment, and whether they are satisfied with the program as a whole. Students will also tell you if professors are more focused on their research than on teaching premed classes, and if the classes are too large for meaningful interactions. Students will answer your questions about the academics, advising, letters, MCAT preparation, medical opportunities, and community. They will help you determine whether a particular postbac program is a good fit for you and your needs. While there are many factors to consider when choosing a postbac program, these are the most important. Other factors may come into play depending on your circumstances. But these are the starting points for weighing one program against another and ultimately choosing the one that will help you reach your goal of getting into medical school and becoming a physician. Liza Thompson, M.Ed. is the former director of both the Johns Hopkins and Goucher Postbaccalaureate Premedical Programs. She now provides medical school and post-bac program admissions consulting to clients through Thompson Advising, at www.thompsonadvising.com. She can be reached at liza@thompsonadvising.com.

Take the next step toward health professional school Gain the foundational coursework and specialized skills you need to shine on your health professional school applications. • Ivy League academics • Personal advising • Admissions and test prep workshops • Committee letters and linkages • Penn Medicine research and clinical opportunities Get your future started today at

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P/ GETTING IN

MY NON TRADITIONAL PATH TO MEDICAL SCHOOL 20 | PREMEDLIFE.COM | SPRING 2021

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P/ GETTING IN I’m a non-traditional med student and 1st generation physician in my family. I’m also a Florida boy who grew up playing ice hockey. I dreamed of playing professionally even when I was in college. This dream led me to attend an all-boys boarding school in Connecticut when I was 14 years old. I was a decent student in high school, but didn’t have a lot of volunteering experience or do many extracurricular activities. I liked the sciences, but didn’t necessarily think that would lead me into a medical career one day. At this time, my professional hockey dreams remained which led me to matriculate to Norwich University, a small university in rural Vermont that has an excellent Division III hockey program. Despite not having a dedicated “premed” track, I majored in Biology and received minors in Chemistry, Health Science, and Sports Medicine (I also met my wife here). A professional hockey career was still attainable, but there were a couple reasons why I ended up pursuing a career in medicine. TRAGEDY. The summer before I began my freshman year in college, my older brother passed away in a car crash. I was 19 years old, and this tragic experience really matured me. I saw how precious life is. I began to understand that life is too short to pursue anything less than your dreams. Although hockey was an incredibly fun and engaging hobby, it ultimately wouldn’t provide me life-long happiness. I knew I liked biology and the sciences, and I knew I wanted to help people for a career. This is why I chose biology as a major. It’s also why I volunteered during college and performed research each year and even received summer fellowships for my research as well. On the weekends, while my friends on the hockey team were partying, I would often be in my room, studying. I’d be trying to learn about the Krebs Cycle while my papers and books would be vibrating from the strong base coming from the party downstairs. I was often playfully shamed and discouraged by teammates. However this turned into support as they saw my commitment, and my nickname on the team was “Doctor.”

mentally. Did I really want to pursue a hockey career where I would be dealing with these injuries in the future? Will my drive to help people and interest in medicine be wasted playing hockey? Was the road to getting into medical school easy? No. Despite my commitment to my studies and amazing GPA in college, I ended up taking the MCAT 3 times. Each score was below the national average. In addition, I applied to medical school 3 times, finally being accepted on my 3rd attempt. What did I do after college and before medical school during my 4 gap years? I was a teacher and a coach at the same all-boys boarding school I had gone to years prior. During this time, I also supported my wife who was a nurse attending school to become a nurse practitioner (which she now is!). I started a global outreach club and led 3 community service trips to Paraguay. I was a Uber driver and a coach at hockey camps during the summer. I also got into woodworking as a hobby (Little did I know at the time that woodworking would be a huge part of my personal statement and residency interviews). While I was applying to medical school, I was fortunate to have a wonderful job that I enjoyed. This took a lot of pressure off getting into school because I had this safety net. I also had the incredible support of my wife and family. This fueled my motivation and determination to one day go to medical school. PRESENT DAY. I’m currently in my 4th year of medical school. I crushed my COMLEX exams and earned above average grades on both Step exams (Proving that the MCAT doesn’t mean anything…). I’m interviewing at anesthesia residencies, and I am confident I will match in the Spring. My wife and I are also in the process of publishing a book, “My Short White Coat: A guided journal through medical school.” This will be the perfect companion for medical students to document their exciting firsts and memorable moments, as well as reflect on their journey.

There is no “right” path on your journey to medical school. If you try hard enough and want it bad enough, INJURIES. On separate occasions, I had fractured my eventually you will get in. I hope my story helps. If you finger and my wrist. I also separated both of my shoul- have any questions, please reach out. ders. Suffering these injuries really took a toll on me 22 | PREMEDLIFE.COM | SPRING 2021

The Post-Baccalaureate Issue

2021 guide to

POSTBACCALAUREATE PREMEDICAL PROGRAMS

Last year, there were 53,303 applicants to medical schools across the U.S. and close to one quarter of entering medical students completed a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program to gain admission. The following is a list of several post-baccalaureate pre-medical programs across the country: EXAMPLE Post-Baccalaureate Program Name College/University | City, State Website: www.premedlife.com Program Type: The type of program or student focus (i.e. Career changer; Academic Enhancement; Underrepresented students; Economically or educational disadvantaged students. Description: Provides a brief description about the program and any unique features or opportunities available to students enrolled in the program.

ALABAMA Master of Science Biomedical and Health Science University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL Website: www.uab.edu/msbhs Program Type: Academic record enhancement (applicants must have taken the MCAT and complete prerequisite courses) Description: This 11-month master’s program is designed to enhance a students admissions value into medical, dental, optometry, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy or other health science professional schools. Students complete specific courses according to a planned and structured program of study. The program also aims to help students improve PCAT, MCAT, DAT and OAT scores.

ARIZONA Master of Science in the Science of Health Care Delivery Arizona State University | Phoenix, AZ Website: chs.asu.edu/programs/science-health-care-delivery-0 Program Type: Academic record enhancement Description: The MS program in the science of health care delivery focuses on the study and design of systems, processes, leadership and management used to optimize health care delivery and health for all. This degree program provides students with knowledge and competencies to contribute in a patient-centered, safe and cost-effective health care system, and is designed for individuals with an interest in a career in the health care industry. Students can earn a BS in Science of Health Care Delivery and MS in Science of Health Care Delivery quicker through a new 4+1 accelerated degree program. ASU also offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year and accelerated 7.5 week classes. Master of Arts in Biomedical Science, Master of Biomedical Sciences Midwestern University | Glendale, AZ Website: www.midwestern.edu/az-biomed Program Type: Academic record enhancement Description: This one- and two-year program is designed to educate and prepare students in the biomedical sciences to be competitive applicants for careers in a wide range of health-related fields, as well as for additional academic and professional training. Ninety percent of the graduating in the class of 2016 were accepted into a medical, dental, Ph.D, or a physician assistant program.

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Pathway Scholars Program The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix | Phoenix, AZ Website: www.phoenixmed.arizona.edu/pathway Program Type: Career-changer; Socioeconomically disadvantaged Description: The Pathway Scholars Program (PSP) is for Arizona residents who desire to pursue a career in medicine. The program is designed for students who have experienced unique or greater than average challenges in preparing to become competitive medical school applicants. The purpose of this program is to prepare students — who possess qualities that would make them superb physicians, but lack the refined skills necessary — to succeed in medical school. The program incorporates academic support, clinical experience, leadership development and modified medical school coursework to equip students with the skill set necessary to thrive in the College of Medicine – Phoenix curriculum. Upon successful completion of the PSP, students will be granted a Graduate Certificate in “Professional Studies in Health Sciences” and, if the student has met set milestones and competencies, will matriculate into the College of Medicine – Phoenix.

CALIFORNIA Pre-Health Postbaccalaureate Program California State University, Fullerton | Fullerton, CA Website: extension.fullerton.edu/HealthProfessions/home.aspx Program Type: Career-changer; Academic Finisher Description: The goal of the Pre-Health Professions Postbaccalaureate Program is to prepare students to be competitive applicants for medical, dental, veterinary, optometry, PA and pharmacy professional school. The program provides the required and recommended course work for post-baccalaureate students from non-science majors. The program is based on a cohort structure and is designed to be completed in 5 semesters. There is also a program for students who have taken some science courses but still need to complete at least 20 credit of upper division courses. Student may also complete the program on a part-time basis with a tailored part-time course schedule. The program has MD linkage programs with three medical schools and one DO school. Pre-Health Professions (PHP) Program California State University San Marcos | San Marcos, CA Website: www.csusm.edu/el/certificateprograms/healthhs/prehealthprof Program Type: Career-changer Description: Designed to provide a student with the Science and Math courses they need to prepare for entrance into various Health Professions programs. This program is designed to prepare students who have completed a non-life science degree in areas such as Anthropology or English to gain the knowledge base required to become competitive applicants to health professional schools such as dental school, medical school or veterinary school. Classes are held weekday evenings over five semesters.

Pre-Professional Health Academic Certificate California State University, East Bay | Hayward, CA Website: www.ce.csueastbay.edu/ce/programs/pre-professional-health Program Type: Career-changer; Academic record enhancement Description: Designed to provide you with the competitive advantage to enter into health professional schools and, ultimately, a career in the health care industry. The program includes two different tracks, depending on your academic background: Graduates holding a bachelor’s degree in a non-science field who have no professional background in the sciences and those with a bachelor’s degree in a science who wish to improve their GPA for admission to medical schools. Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate Program Chapman University | Orange, CA Website: xx Program Type: xx Description: xx Enhanced Post Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Pre-Medicine Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science | Los Angeles, CA Website: www.cdrewu.edu/cosh/prog/PBPMProgram Program Type: Career changer; GPA enhancer Description: Designed for exceptional individuals who desire to become physician leaders united in the unique goal affirmed by the University’s mission: dedication to social justice and health equity for underserved populations through outstanding education, research, clinical service and community engagement. The program includes: participation in rigorous academic science courses (including prerequisite and upper division science courses); intensive MCAT preparation, including multiple full-length practice tests and a formal test preparation course; frequent, individualized career and academic advising sessions with clinical and academic faculty; opportunities for longitudinal, hands-on, clinical experience; attendance of local and national health conferences; exposure to successful health professionals; longitudinal Pre-Health Series consisting of interactive workshops designed to equip students with the knowledge, behaviors and skills necessary to become successful applicants, and ultimately, successful medical students and physicians. Post-baccalaureate Premedical Certificate Program (PPC) Keck Graduate Institute | Claremont, CA Website: www.kgi.edu/academic-programs/postbac-premedical-certificate-program-(ppc) Program Type: Academic record enhancement Description: This one-year program is designed to combine the best of an “academic enhancer” (AE) program and a Special Master’s Program (SMP). It is an AE because it provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to succeed in a rigorous graduate environment and to learn unique knowledge and skills from biomedical industry to offer medical schools. It is similar to a SMP in that students have the option to continue towards completing a master’s degree with an additional year. The program is best suited for students who have had some success, but are looking to further improve upon their credentials. Pre-Medical Post-Baccalaureate Program Loyola Marymount University | Los Angeles, CA Website: www.cse.lmu.edu/centerforstudentsuccess/healthprofessionsadvising/pre-medi-

calpost-baccalaureateprogram

Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is geared for career changers who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine or dentistry. The program provides an opportunity for students to acquire the academic competencies to prepare themselves for the rigors of medical or dental school. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med Program Mills College | Oakland, CA Website: www.mills.edu/academics/graduate/pmc_gr/program/index.php Program Type: Career changer Description: Designed for students with bachelor’s degrees who lack some or all of the basic science courses to pursue study in the fields of allopathic medicine, osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, veterinary medicine, or optometry. The program is flexible and can be tailored to fit a student’s specific background in science and mathematics. Linkages with an allopathic medical school and an osteopathic medical school allow some of our select students to start medical school in the fall after completing their studies at Mills, thereby eliminating the application year. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med Program San Francisco State University | San Francisco, CA Website: prehealth.sfsu.edu/ Program Type: Career changer; Academic record enhancement Description: This formal post-bac program is designed to prepare students for applying to graduate health professions schools such as medical, dental, and pharmacy schools. The program is split into two tracks: a Career Changer Track (CCT) and an Academic Enhancer Track (AET). The CCT is for those needing to take for the first time prerequisite science and math courses and a limited number of upper-division science electives. The AET is for those who

need to improve their academic record by retaking some prerequisites and upper-division science electives as well as taking for the first time a number of upper-division science electives. Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program Scripps College | Claremont, CA Website: www.scrippscollege.edu/postbac/ Program Type: Career changer Description: Designed to offer motivated women and men the opportunity to complete the requisite science courses to successfully pursue a career in medicine in a thirteen-month program for career changers. Successful applicants to the program have completed college but have never before applied to medical school nor taken the MCAT. While we offer the option of a part-time, 24-month program, most of our students complete the full-time program in thirteen months—saving on tuition and living expenses and ensuring that course material is fresh in their minds when studying for the MCAT. Additionally, Scripps’ linkage programs offer qualified students the opportunity to matriculate into medical school immediately upon completion of the program, and about one-third of our students successfully link to one of our five linkage schools. Post Baccalaureate Health Professions Program UC Berkeley Extension | Berkeley, CA Website: www.scrippscollege.edu/postbac/ Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is developed specifically for college graduates who want to apply to professional schools and need to fulfill prerequisites or raise their undergraduate grade point average before applying. Postbaccalaureate Program UC Davis School of Medicine | Sacramento, CA Website: www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/diversity/postbac.html Program Type: Educationally and/or socio-economically disadvantaged Description: This one-year program designed to help educationally and/ or socio-economically disadvantaged students become more competitive applicants to medical school. The program accepts first-time applicants to medical school and reapplicants. The year-long program has two major components: the summer program and the academic year. During the summer, students prepare for the MCAT by developing test-taking strategies and study skills. During the academic year, students enroll full-time in upper division biological science courses on the UC Davis undergraduate campus. To be eligible for the program students must be a California resident. Room, board and educational expenses are covered for the summer session. Postbaccalaureate Program UC Davis School of Medicine | Sacramento, CA Website: www.meded.uci.edu/admissions/postbaccalaureate.asp Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is designed to assist disadvantaged applicants in gaining acceptance to medical school, with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of physicians in underserved areas. During the academic year, students enroll in upper-division science courses. Students are also enrolled in an MCAT critical reasoning preparation course throughout fall quarter. If needed, students may also participate in research and/or enhance their clinical exposure for academic credit. The program hosts seminars, workshops, motivational gatherings, and professional discussions focusing on health care in underserved populations. Postbaccalaureate Program UC San Diego| La Jolla, CA Website: www.postbacpremed.ucsd.edu/ Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is designed for students who seek to enhance their academic records to apply or reapply to allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. The program is appropriate for both first-time applicants and those who have previously but unsuccessfully applied. Students from underrepresented or socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and students who are interested in providing healthcare to underserved communities are particularly encouraged to apply. The year-long program is designed for participants to work towards establishing a strong GPA in upper division biological science courses, reaffirm knowledge gained in undergraduate science courses prior to the UC San Diego Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program, prepare for the MCAT, and develop strong medical school applications and interview skills. Re-Application Program (RAP) David Geffen School of Medicine| Los Angeles, CA Website: www.medschool.ucla.edu/current-ucla-rap Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is a comprehensive, structured re-application program designed to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have been unsuccessful in gaining admission to any U.S medical school. RAP is an 11-month program that is conducted in two sessions. The summer program begins with an intensive six-week summer session, focused upon prerequisite science review and on MCAT preparation.

Interprofessional Health Post Baccalaureate Certificate Program University of California, San Francisco | San Francisco, CA Website: www.bio.uci.edu/undergraduates/postbacc-premedical-program/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for individuals who have been unsuccessful in gaining admission to medical school or who have completed the required undergraduate course work, but feel they need more background before initiating the medical school application process. The program is interested in individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds or underserved communities. The UCSF program is designed to help individuals increase their chances of gaining admission to medical school by offering intensive MCAT review, assistance with medical school application preparation, science courses at UC Berkeley Extension, seminars on health care issues in underserved communities, and academic skills workshops. Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA Website: www.chem.usc.edu/postbacc Program Type: Career changer, Recent graduates Description: The program is designed to enable students who are beyond their undergraduate studies to complete the science core classes required for medical, dental and veterinary school in a supportive environment. The program accommodates both recent graduates and career-changers, and offers academic and pre-professional advisement and mentoring. The program is selective and directed towards accomplished students with little or no college-level science work. Master of Science in Medical Sciences Western University | Pomana, CA Website: www.chem.usc.edu/postbacc Program Type: Career changer, Recent graduates Description: The program is designed to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds in gaining acceptance to professional schools with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of health-professionals in underserved areas.

Colorado Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Regis University | Denver, CO Website: extension.fullerton.edu/HealthProfessions/home.aspx Program Type: Career-changer Description: The program is a 9-month degree program designed to provide record enhancing post-baccalaureate studies for students who wish to pursue a career in healthcare fields such as medicine (DO, MD, PA) and dentistry. The program provides a team-focused, academically intensive and supportive environment in which to prove readiness for future study. It includes a handson externship component in the Denver healthcare community, culminating in an integrative capstone project. The program includes both day (afternoon) and evening courses. It is possible to work part-time while completing the program; however, it is recommended that students work no more than about 15 hours per week and work hours must be scheduled around coursework activities. Masters of Science Program in Modern Human Anatomy University of Colorado | Aurora, CO 80045 Website: www.ucdenver.edu Program Type: Career-changer Description: This new two-year Master’s program merges the virtual world of advanced imaging and 3-D modeling with the anatomical sciences. The program provides graduate level training and teaching experience in the physical and virtual anatomical sciences. The curriculum integrates 3D computer imaging and modeling with human cadaver dissection, neuroanatomy, histology, and embryology. The curriculum offers a unique perspective into the modern anatomical and educational research and the clinical world that will prepare the student for the technical demands of human anatomy in the 21st Century. Selection of candidates will favor the diversity of talents or backgrounds that are complementary to the intended project focus of this program. Consideration will be given to applicant profiles that promise to strengthen team oriented project development as well as the technical and academic demands of the curriculum. The program is potentially attractive to applicants seeking to strengthen their credentials to enter professional schools in medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, physical therapy, physician assistant, or paramedical training in medicine-associated disciplines.

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to complete the requisite science courses to successfully pursue a career in medicine in a thirteen-month program for career changers. Successful applicants to the program have completed college but have never before applied to medical school nor taken the MCAT. While we offer the option of a part-time, 24-month program, most of our students complete the full-time program in thirteen months—saving on tuition and living expenses and ensuring that course material is fresh in their minds when studying for the MCAT. Additionally, Scripps’ linkage programs offer qualified students the opportunity to matriculate into medical school immediately upon completion of the program, and about one-third of our students successfully link to one of our five linkage schools.

Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate Program Chapman University | Orange, CA Website: xx Program Type: xx Description: xx

Post Baccalaureate Health Professions Program UC Berkeley Extension | Berkeley, CA Website: www.scrippscollege.edu/postbac/ Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is developed specifically for college graduates who want to apply to professional schools and need to fulfill prerequisites or raise their undergraduate grade point average before applying.

Enhanced Post Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Pre-Medicine Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science | Los Angeles, CA Website: www.cdrewu.edu/cosh/prog/PBPMProgram Program Type: Career changer; GPA enhancer Description: Designed for exceptional individuals who desire to become physician leaders united in the unique goal affirmed by the University’s mission: dedication to social justice and health equity for underserved populations through outstanding education, research, clinical service and community engagement. The program includes: participation in rigorous academic science courses (including prerequisite and upper division science courses); intensive MCAT preparation, including multiple full-length practice tests and a formal test preparation course; frequent, individualized career and academic advising sessions with clinical and academic faculty; opportunities for longitudinal, hands-on, clinical experience; attendance of local and national health conferences; exposure to successful health professionals; longitudinal Pre-Health Series consisting of interactive workshops designed to equip students with the knowledge, behaviors and skills necessary to become successful applicants, and ultimately, successful medical students and physicians. Post-baccalaureate Premedical Certificate Program (PPC) Keck Graduate Institute | Claremont, CA Website: www.kgi.edu/academic-programs/postbac-premedical-certificate-program-(ppc) Program Type: Academic record enhancement Description: This one-year program is designed to combine the best of an “academic enhancer” (AE) program and a Special Master’s Program (SMP). It is an AE because it provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to succeed in a rigorous graduate environment and to learn unique knowledge and skills from biomedical industry to offer medical schools. It is similar to a SMP in that students have the option to continue towards completing a master’s degree with an additional year. The program is best suited for students who have had some success, but are looking to further improve upon their credentials. Pre-Medical Post-Baccalaureate Program Loyola Marymount University | Los Angeles, CA Website: www.cse.lmu.edu/centerforstudentsuccess/healthprofessionsadvising/pre-medi-

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Postbaccalaureate Program UC Davis School of Medicine | Sacramento, CA Website: www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/diversity/postbac.html Program Type: Educationally and/or socio-economically disadvantaged Description: This one-year program designed to help educationally and/ or socio-economically disadvantaged students become more competitive applicants to medical school. The program accepts first-time applicants to medical school and reapplicants. The year-long program has two major components: the summer program and the academic year. During the summer, students prepare for the MCAT by developing test-taking strategies and study skills. During the academic year, students enroll full-time in upper division biological science courses on the UC Davis undergraduate campus. To be eligible for the program students must be a California resident. Room, board and educational expenses are covered for the summer session. Postbaccalaureate Program UC Davis School of Medicine | Sacramento, CA Website: www.meded.uci.edu/admissions/postbaccalaureate.asp Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is designed to assist disadvantaged applicants in gaining acceptance to medical school, with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of physicians in underserved areas. During the academic year, students enroll in upper-division science courses. Students are also enrolled in an MCAT critical reasoning preparation course throughout fall quarter. If needed, students may also participate in research and/or enhance their clinical exposure for academic credit. The program hosts seminars, workshops, motivational gatherings, and professional discussions focusing on health care in underserved populations. Postbaccalaureate Program UC San Diego| La Jolla, CA Website: www.postbacpremed.ucsd.edu/ Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is designed for students who seek to enhance their academic records to apply or reapply to allopathic and osteopathic medical schools. The program is appropriate for both first-time applicants and those who have previously but unsuccessfully applied. Students from underrepresented or socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and students who are interested in providing healthcare to underserved communities are particularly encouraged to apply. The year-long program is designed for participants to work towards establishing a strong GPA in upper division biological science courses, reaffirm knowledge gained in undergraduate science courses prior to the UC San Diego Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program, prepare for the MCAT, and develop strong medical school applications and interview skills. Re-Application Program (RAP) David Geffen School of Medicine| Los Angeles, CA Website: www.medschool.ucla.edu/current-ucla-rap Program Type: Disadvantaged applicants Description: The program is a comprehensive, structured re-application program designed to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have been unsuccessful in gaining admission to any U.S medical school. RAP is an 11-month program that is conducted in two sessions. The summer program begins with an intensive six-week summer session, focused upon prerequisite science review and on MCAT preparation. Interprofessional Health Post Baccalaureate Certificate Program University of California, San Francisco | San Francisco, CA Website: www.bio.uci.edu/undergraduates/postbacc-premedical-program/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for individuals who have been unsuccessful in gaining admission to medical school or who have completed the required undergraduate course work, but feel they need more background before initiating the medical school application process. The program is interested in individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds or underserved communities. The UCSF program is designed to help individuals increase their chances of gaining admission to medical school by offering intensive MCAT review, assistance with medical school application preparation, science courses at UC Berkeley Extension, seminars on health care issues in underserved communities, and academic skills workshops. Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA

Website: www.chem.usc.edu/postbacc Program Type: Career changer, Recent graduates Description: The program is designed to enable students who are beyond their undergraduate studies to complete the science core classes required for medical, dental and veterinary school in a supportive environment. The program accommodates both recent graduates and career-changers, and offers academic and pre-professional advisement and mentoring. The program is selective and directed towards accomplished students with little or no college-level science work. Master of Science in Medical Sciences Western University | Pomana, CA Website: www.chem.usc.edu/postbacc Program Type: Career changer, Recent graduates Description: The program is designed to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds in gaining acceptance to professional schools with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of health-professionals in underserved areas.

Colorado Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Regis University | Denver, CO Website: extension.fullerton.edu/HealthProfessions/home.aspx Program Type: Career-changer Description: The program is a 9-month degree program designed to provide record enhancing post-baccalaureate studies for students who wish to pursue a career in healthcare fields such as medicine (DO, MD, PA) and dentistry. The program provides a team-focused, academically intensive and supportive environment in which to prove readiness for future study. It includes a handson externship component in the Denver healthcare community, culminating in an integrative capstone project. The program includes both day (afternoon) and evening courses. It is possible to work part-time while completing the program; however, it is recommended that students work no more than about 15 hours per week and work hours must be scheduled around coursework activities. Masters of Science Program in Modern Human Anatomy University of Colorado | Aurora, CO Website: www.ucdenver.edu Program Type: Career-changer Description: This new two-year Master’s program merges the virtual world of advanced imaging and 3-D modeling with the anatomical sciences. The program provides graduate level training and teaching experience in the physical and virtual anatomical sciences. The curriculum integrates 3D computer imaging and modeling with human cadaver dissection, neuroanatomy, histology, and embryology. The curriculum offers a unique perspective into the modern anatomical and educational research and the clinical world that will prepare the student for the technical demands of human anatomy in the 21st Century. Selection of candidates will favor the diversity of talents or backgrounds that are complementary to the intended project focus of this program. Consideration will be given to applicant profiles that promise to strengthen team oriented project development as well as the technical and academic demands of the curriculum. The program is potentially attractive to applicants seeking to strengthen their credentials to enter professional schools in medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, physical therapy, physician assistant, or paramedical training in medicine-associated disciplines. Post-Baccalaureate Health Professions Program University of Colorado | Boulder, CO Website: www.ce.colorado.edu/programs/post-baccalaureate-health-professions/ Program Type: Career-changer Description: This program is designed for “career changers” who were academically successful as undergraduates and have completed a bachelor’s degree, but have not completed the prerequisite courses needed to apply to medical and other healthcare-related professional schools. The program is an intensive, yearlong science “bootcamp.” Students begin their coursework in June each year and complete the program in May the following year. SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Master’s in Biomedical Science University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO Website: www.unco.edu/nhs/biology/programs/graduate/mbs Program Type: Career-changer Description: This one year post-baccalaureate premedical program is designed to provide academic enhancement for strong students with a background in biology who want to improve their application to a professional or other biomedically-related graduate school. This program recently announced that students now have the option to pursue the Master’s in Biomedical Science degree online. Students who choose the online option will complete 30 credits of graduate level coursework in the biomedical sciences in two semesters, just as in our traditional face-to-face program. Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis. UNC offers five $6,000 merit-based, competitive scholarships.

Connecticut Medical Laboratory Sciences Quinnipaic University | Hamden, CT Website: www.qu.edu/schools/health-sciences/programs/mhs-medical-laboratory-sciences.html Program Type: Career-changer, Academic enhancement Description: Students may choose either a thesis or a non-thesis option in the medical laboratory sciences program. Both options require students to take four courses or more in their specialization while allowing students to choose

a number of electives to meet their individual needs. Anyone who holds a baccalaureate degree in the biological, medical or health sciences is eligible to apply for admission if appropriate science courses are satisfied. Medicine and Dental Medicine Post-Baccalaureate Program University of Connecticut | Storrs, CT Website: www.med-dent.postbac.uconn.edu/ Program Type: Career-changer, Academic enhancement Description: The program is designed to prepare students who have completed an undergraduate degree and wish to strengthen their preparation for professional school. The program offers two possible tracks. Program A is a two year program is designed for exceptional non-traditional students who have or will complete the bachelor’s degree in a non-science concentration and who have become interested in pursuing a medical education. Program B is designed for students who have earned the bachelor’s degree and who have completed the majority of math and science course requirements, and who will profit from taking any remaining prerequisite courses and a number of advanced science courses.

District of Columbia Postbaccalaureate Premedical Certificate American University | Washington, DC Website: www.american.edu/cas/premed/CERT-GPMD.cfm Program Type: Career-changer, Academic enhancement Description: The program prepares students to apply to health professional schools or advanced degree programs, including medicine (MD or DO). Current students range from new college graduates to older professionals pursuing a new career path. Each student finishes the program with a composite letter of evaluation, which can be sent to health professional schools along with individual letters of recommendation. In addition to multiple clinical experience options, current post-bacc students transitioning to medical school frequently help new and current students to apply for the positions they are leaving, usually through the Post-Bacc Club at AU. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medicine Program George Washington University | Washington, DC Website: www.smhs.gwu.edu/postbac-premed/ Program Type: Career-changer Description: This one-year program is designed to provide future physicians with the foundational coursework, standardized test preparation, and access to real-world experience. The program benefits those who want to apply to medical school but have not yet taken the general and organic chemistry, biology, and physics courses necessary for admission. Students will complete the program with the coursework commonly required of U.S. allopathic and osteopathic medical schools, and they will also be well prepared to take the newly revised MCAT2015 through a course offered on-site by Kaplan. They will strengthen their interview skills with the help of faculty involved in the GW medical school admissions process. Graduate Certificate in Anatomical & Translational Sciences (GCATS) George Washington University | Washington, DC Website: www.smhs.gwu.edu/anatomy/education/gcats Program Type: Academic enhancement Description: This is an academic enhancer program that offers a gateway into a career in medicine and health-related fields to first-time applicants and those who have previously but unsuccessfully applied to medical school or a physician assistant program. The program is designed to take 9 months to complete. The program recently established a linkage with the George Washington University Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program. Georgetown Summer Medical Institute (GSMI) Georgetown University | Washington, DC Website: www.som.georgetown.edu/prospectivestudents/specialprograms/summer Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is designed to provide excellent preparation and insight for individuals exploring the calling of medicine as a career, and those making-up medical school courses. All GSMI courses are taught by dedicated, internationally recognized professors from Georgetown University School of Medicine. The program is designed for college undergraduates, post-bacc graduates, and current medical school students. SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Special Master’s Program in Physiology Georgetown University | Washington, DC Website: www.smp.georgetown.edu/ Program Type: Academic enhancer Description: This program is tailored to college graduates who wish to strengthen their credentials for application to U.S. medical schools. Students take medical classes along side the medical students, and are graded directly against them. Scholarship opportunities (up to 20% of tuition costs) are available for eligible students participating in the program. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Certificate Program Georgetown University | Washington, DC Website: www. premed.georgetown.edu/postbac Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for “career change” students. Most of the program’s post-bac students come from non-science majors and/or careers. The program typically looks for students who have completed fewer than half of the undergraduate requirements for medical school.

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Premedical Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate American University | Washington, DC Website: www.pcs.udel.edu/pre-med/ american.edu/cas/premed/CERT-GPMD.cfm Program Type: Career-changer, Academic enhancement Description: This program is designed to help provide a path of entry into a challenging and rewarding new career. Key features of the certificate program include: Personalized advisement and academic support; Translational research opportunities, practica and internships; Exceptional interdisciplinary laboratory facilities and outstanding faculty. The program is designed to help those with a non-science related bachelor’s degree to prepare for medical school or other professional schools like dentistry, physician assistant, physical therapy, pharmacy, veterinary medicine and more. Students work closely with UD’s Center for Premedical and Health Profession Studies to develop an individualized program of study that addresses requirements for admission into professional schools in their desired field. Earning the certificate is meant to enhance students’ standing as an applicant to a health care professional school based on the high quality of work accomplished throughout the program.

Florida Premedical Post-Baccalaureate Undergraduate Certificate Barry University | Hollywood, FL Website: www.barry.edu/biomedical-sciences/ Program Type: Academic enhancement Description: The program prepares students who wish to advance as health care professionals or biomedical scientists. The curriculum serves to strengthen a student’s application for medical, dental or other professional health education by delivering a sequence of core science courses similar to the first-year of a medical, dental, or podiatric curriculum. The program is designed to provide motivated students with an intensive and unique learning experience. If students decide not to continue their education to earn a medical or dental degree, they can work in the healthcare industry or teach at a 4-year college with a graduate degree in biomedical sciences. The program offers three tracks: 12-month Track designed for students who have already completed their undergraduate pre-med/ pre-dental preparation and want to enhance their qualifications for entrance into medical or dental school. The 18-month/2-year Tracks are also designed to prepare you for acceptance to medical and dental schools but at a slightly less rigorous pace than the 12-month program. The Research Track is designed for students who are currently employed in the healthcare industry who seek advancement in their chosen field, those who wish to “cross-over” into the biomedical fields in industry or teaching, and those who are preparing for PhD programs, particularly in the biomedical field. The Research track is a 2 year program. Post-Baccalaureate Medical Pathway Program Florida Atlantic University | Baca Raton, FL Website: www.science.fau.edu/student_services/pre_health/certificate_program.php Program Type: Career changer Description: This “career changer” certificate track is designed for students who have not completed all of the undergraduate medical school pre-requisite courses. Students enrolled in the program are provided with tutoring resources on campus, early registration, Financial Aid funding (if available), one-on-one professional and academic advising, and access to the Pre-health advising resources. The Career Enhancer track is no longer being offered. Certificate in Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Florida International University | Miami, FL Website: medicine.fiu.edu/academics/degrees-and-programs/certificate-in-molecu-

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Program Type: Career changer, Academic enrichment Description: The program is designed to provide academic enhancement and professional development to applicants to health-related professional degree programs. The graduate certificate program strengthens the biomedical knowledge and professionalism skills of applicants, improving their qualifications for application to medical school or other health-related professional degree programs. The program comprises eight graduate-level courses. Master’s Bridge Program Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL Website: medicine.fiu.edu/academics/degrees-and-programs/certificate-in-molecu-

lar-and-biomedical-sciences/index.html

Program Type: Career changer, Academic enrichment Description: The Bridge to Clinical Medicine major of the M.S. Program in Biomedical Sciences is designed to expand the pool of successful medical school applicants from medically underserved, rural, and inner-city communities. It is a 12-month program that provides both education in medical knowledge and experiences in clinical practice. The Bridge to Clinical Medicine M.S. major provides disadvantaged students with a bridge to medical school or a career in healthcare. Students admitted to the Bridge to Clinical Medicine major will be enrolled in two courses with medical students in the medical degree curriculum. Students will be selected for the Bridge Program from the regular Florida State University College of Medicine (FSU COM) admissions cycle. Students from medically underrepresented, rural and inner-city populations who do not gain direct admission to the medical school may be invited to participate. This three-semester experience will allow selected students to demonstrate growth and improvement in both academic and health-care settings.

Masters of Biomedical Sciences Larkin University | Miami, FL Website: ularkin.org/college-of-biomedical-sciences/ Program Type: Career changer, Academic enrichment Description: The program was designed with the Pre-medical and Pre-dental applicants in mind. The curriculum contains coursework similar to that experienced in the first year of medical or dental school. Located in a hospital setting with direct access to residents, MDs, DOs and DDSs; students will experience hands-on training in real life scenarios. Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Program (PHPB) University of Florida | Gainesville, FL Website: www.clas.ufl.edu/prehealthpostbac/ Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is designed to offer dedicated and motivated students an opportunity to complete academic pre-requisite courses for admission to medical school or dental school. The program offers two tracks: Career Changer Program offers pre-health students an opportunity to take academic pre-requisite courses for admission to medical school, dental school, and other health professional graduate programs. This program is specifically for students who did not take science pre-requisite courses as undergraduates (maximum of two completed). The ReStart Program offers pre-health students who earned a non-science bachelor’s degree an opportunity to take academic pre-requisite courses for admission to medical school or dental school. This track is specifically for students who began taking science pre-requisite courses (generally 1-3 courses) as an undergraduate and experienced academic difficulty. Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Program University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL Website: www.prehealth.miami.edu/pre-health-tracks/post-baccalaureate Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is is specifically designed for career changers, not for science or academic enhancement. The program is tailored for students with little or no science preparation, and the coursework takes approximately one to one and-a-half calendar years to complete. This non-degree certificate program for college graduates who seek admission to a health professional program such as medicine (allopathic or osteopathic), dentistry, podiatry, optometry or veterinary medicine. Master of Science in Medical Sciences University of South Florida | Tampa, FL Website: www.health.usf.edu/medicine/graduatestudies/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program offers two curriculum tracks: one track is the medical, which is designed to assist students who are seeking admission in a health professional school (e.g., M.D., D.O., D.D.S., D.V.M., D.P.T., and Pharm.D. programs) and the second is the research track which is designed for students who want to pursue a career in research, or enter into a biomedical sciences Ph.D. program. There are two programs in the medical track. These programs in Medical Sciences, within the Morsani College of Medicine, have been developed to provide a novel interdisciplinary and concentrated program of study that is designed for students interested in either future doctoral or professional programs in the biomedical sciences and who value the interdisciplinary approach. The pre-professional program integrates several disciplines and topics including the subject areas of anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, histology, microbiology, neuroscience, pathology, pharmacology and physiology. These medically-oriented subject areas have been integrated to provide a solid foundation in the medical sciences. The rigorous program is designed to allow students to demonstrate their full academic ability and suitability for future careers in healthcare in either academic or clinical environments. The interdisciplinary nature of the program promotes a broad intellectual focus that is required of current and future health-care professionals. Master of Science in Medical Sciences University of South Florida | Tampa, FL Website: www.health.usf.edu/medicine/mdprogram/diversity/ims Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed to provide qualified students with advanced training in the sciences basic to the practice of medicine. A goal of this concentration is to provide promising medical school applicants an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that would enable them to have a career in the medical sciences. A goal of this concentration is to provide promising medical school applicants an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that would enable them to have a career in the medical sciences. IMS participants are no longer offered conditional admission to USF MCOM MD program.

Georgia Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program Agnes Scott College | Decatur, GA Website: www.agnesscott.edu/post-bacc Program Type: Career changer, Late starter Description: The program is open to highly motivated men and women with successful undergraduate academic careers in non-science fields. The post-baccalaureate pre-med cohorts are a mix of new graduates and seasoned career professionals. The program has admitted attorneys, individuals with doctorates, ordained ministers, public health professionals and several recent graduates with majors that span the social sciences and humanities. The 13-month program—the only one offered in Georgia—features comprehensive studies in pre-medical laboratory sciences available through our undergraduate departments. The program does feature linkage agreements.

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SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Mercer University School of Medicine | Macon, GA Website: www.medicine.mercer.edu/admissions/biomed Program Type: Strengthen medical school application Description: This program is a research-intensive, thesis-based graduate program designed to prepare students for employment in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries; healthcare; teaching; and for further postgraduate studies at the doctoral level in medicine (MD, DO), dental medicine (DMD), or in basic and applied/translational research (PhD). Students who remain in good standing are eligible for a full tuition scholarship for 55 credit hours of the 75 credit hour total of the MSBMS Program and a substantial Graduate Research Fellowship for the final four semesters (Spring-Summer-Fall-Spring) of the MSBMS Program. Master of Science in Preclinical Sciences Mercer University School of Medicine | Macon, GA Website: www.medicine.mercer.edu/admissions/biomed Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The Master of Science in Preclinical Sciences (MSPCS) Program is a one-year (32-week) curriculum composed of 31 credit hours of science courses addressing concepts that are foundational to the practice of medicine and to research in the biomedical field. The two main goals of the MSPCS are to prepare graduates for careers in science teaching, academic laboratory research, publishing or policy-making, and to enhance the scientific knowledge of graduates who desire to pursue a Ph.D. in the biomedical sciences, a medical degree through either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) program, or other degrees in healthcare, such as in Pharmacy, Physician Assistant, or Dentistry.

Iowa Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Iowa State University | Ames, IA Website: www.vetmed.iastate.edu/bms/academics/one-year-masters Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This is a one-year, non-thesis Master of Science program; students continue higher education courses to prepare for careers in the academia, research, or the biotech, pharma and healthcare industries. Graduates of the program may attend professional schools or continue studying in a PhD program. The core curriculum includes study of both human and animal sciences in 30 credit hours of graduate-level coursework. This program is designed to expand upon undergraduate coursework in the science fields. The entire curriculum is designed to be completed in just one year, beginning only in the fall semester and ending with a final oral examination of the creative component in the spring semester.

Illinois Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program Dominican University | River Forest, IL Website: www.vetmed.iastate.edu/bms/academics/one-year-masters Program Type: Career changer; Strengthen Application Description: This program is designed as an academic bridge for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree and who intend to pursue a degree in the medical sciences including but not limited to: MD, DO, PhD, OD, DMD, DVM, DC, MA, and MS. The program is appropriate both for students who have never before taken introductory natural science courses (career-changers) and for students who need to improve their grades in the science pre-requisites before applying to a professional program (career enhancers). Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program DePaul University | Chicago, IL Website: www.csh.depaul.edu/academics/pre-health-program/post-baccalaureate Program Type: Career changer; Strengthen Application Description: The post-baccalaureate (post-bac) program is flexible and allows students who might be working full-time or part-time to complete the courses (offered during the day, Monday through Friday) on a part-time basis at their own pace. Benefits of the program include but are not limited to: rolling admission; completion of courses on a part-time basis if needed, and free tutoring. ONLINE COURSES OFFERED

Master of Science in Biology for the Health Professions Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL Website: science.iit.edu/programs/graduate/master-science-biology-health-professions Program Type: Strengthen Application Description: The program is designed to strengthen you as an applicant for professional health schools, including medicine, dentistry, optometry, and pharmacy. This 12-month, non-thesis program accepts Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), Dental Admissions Test (DAT), or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for admission. Students may earn the degree on campus or online, part-time or full-time. If students wish to obtain hands-on laboratory experience, you may choose lab classes as electives. MS in Infectious Disease Loyola University | Chicago, IL Website: ssom.luc.edu/indiri/graduate-program/overview/ Program Type: Career changer; Strengthen Application Description: This is a two year, full time program that includes courses the first year and research the second year. Some of the first year courses are taken with medical students as well.

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Medical/Dental Education Preparatory Program (MEDPREP) Southern Illinois University School of Medicine | Carbondale, IL Website: www.siumed.edu/medprep/ Program Type: Educationally and/or economically disadvantaged Description: MEDPREP provides assistance to educationally and/or economically disadvantaged students, preparing them to achieve success in the health professions. The program operates on a year-round basis, beginning in June of each year. Students complete the program in five semesters (summer, fall and spring in their first year; fall and spring in their second year). Three program options are available: Traditional program: Students enroll as undergraduate post-baccalaureate students. The traditional option focuses on academic skill development. The second options is the Masters in Public Health with Concentration in MEDPREP: MP/MPH students complete many of the MEDPREP courses offered in the traditional program, and simultaneously complete graduate level coursework to complete the MPH degree in two years. The third option is the Masters in Biological Sciences with Concentration in MEDPREP. MP/MBS students complete many of the MEDPREP courses offered in the traditional program, and simultaneously complete graduate level coursework to complete the MBS degree in two years. Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science | North Chicago, IL Website: www.rosalindfranklin.edu/academics/college-of-health-professions/ degree-programs/biomedical-sciences-ms/ Program Type: Educationally and/or economically disadvantaged Description: This one-year course of study includes a number of graduate-level courses in the basic medical sciences and the choice of educational concentrations in a variety of healthcare fields. Students in this unique program take classes with students in other degree programs, including various graduate programs, allopathic and podiatric medicine, nutrition, physical therapy, and physician assistant studies. Students who are actively enrolled in BMS course work and meet the requirements of other RFU programs will be granted an interview providing they remain actively enrolled in BMS at the time of the interview. SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Master of Arts in Medical Sciences Loyola University | Chicago, IL Website: www.luc.edu/biology/mams/ Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The Master of Arts in Medical Sciences program prepares students who aspire to become compassionate, culturally-competent physicians, to build a compelling medical school application. All students are expected to apply to medical school following the MAMS program. Some student apply immediately after the MAMS program, some apply after a year-long internship following MAMS. A guaranteed admission interview will be granted, after degree conferred, at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. A limited number of full-tuition scholarships are available for students enrolled in the MA in Medical Sciences program. Pre-Medicine Certificate Program Northwestern University | Chicago, IL Website: www.luc.edu/biology/mams/ Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: The program admits post-baccalaureate students seeking the laboratory science courses in biology, general and organic chemistry and physics required for the application to most medical, dental, veterinary, and related professional schools. This program is designed for career changers and students who have not completed the coursework needed to apply to medical school. Advanced Studies in Biology for the Health Professions Northwestern University | Chicago, IL Website: sps.northwestern.edu/program-areas/post-baccalaureate/advanced-biolo-

gy-health-professions

Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The program draws students from a wide range of backgrounds who are interested in careers in medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant studies or other health careers. Students complete four to eight advanced undergraduate courses in biology to help them prepare for professional programs. Pre-Medical Studies Program Lewis University | Romeoville, IL Website: www.luc.edu/biology/mams/ Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: This program serves as a springboard not only for those looking at the MCAT exam and Medical School, but those looking to enter any higher-level health profession education fields, including Physical Therapy, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry and more. This program is offered at a discounted tuition rate for adult learners. Students who aspire to enter medical school or pursue graduate-level education in the health sciences may complete a certificate program in lieu of the Bachelor of Arts with 32 semester hours of advisor-approved coursework from major-level offerings in the departments of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Master of Arts in Biomedical Science Midwestern University | Downers Grove, IL Website: www.midwestern.edu/programs_and_admission/il_master_of_ arts_in_biomedical_sciences.html Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (M.A.) degree is a fulltime, three-quarter, graduate level, coursework only program. This program is designed to help students with a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a major

in the sciences, improve their academic foundation in the biomedical sciences and enhance their credentials for admission into medical school or other health professional program. Biotechnology Master’s Degree Program Rush University | Chicago, IL Website: www.rushu.rush.edu/graduate-college/academic-programs/biotechnology-mas-

ter%E2%80%99s-degree-program

Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: This accelerated full-time Master of Science in Biotechnology program will provide you with excellent training for your future career in biomedical or medical sciences. The biotechnology courses in this nine-month program are designed for discovery. They range from core biomedical science classes, laboratory practica and experimental design to communications and biomedical research strategies. Biotechnology program students also participate in Interprofessional Education though a University course.

Indiana Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (BMS) Marian University | Indianapolis, IN Website: www.marian.edu/osteopathic-medical-school/curriculum/master-of-sci-

ence-in-biomedical-sciences

Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This two-track program offers individuals an opportunity to enhance their application through graduate science courses similar to the first year of medical school. It also provides an opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in the life/biomedical sciences or research laboratories to complete the entire two-year program to earn a master’s degree in biomedical sciences. Students are guaranteed interview to MU-COM during the spring if they earn a 3.50 GPA in the fall semester. The Biomedical Sciences program offers students two tracks. For those interested in pursuing a professional degree by enhancing your application there is a Medical School Track. This track provides students with an opportunity to complete 21 credit hours at a level similar to the first year of medical school. Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) Program Indiana University | Indianapolis, IN Website: www.msms.medicine.iu.edu/overview/ Program Type: Students from disadvantaged backgrounds Description: The program is designed to enhance the preparation and confidence of its students to be successful in a medical curriculum. Students aspiring to careers in medicine at times require additional skill-building experience and an enhanced knowledge of learning strategies. This opportunity is only for students from especially disadvantaged backgrounds. The program is a two-year program that includes 36 credit hours of course work at the graduate level that includes experiences in didactic instruction, problem-based learning and research. M.S. Pre-Professional Degree Program Indiana University | Indianapolis, IN Website: www.physiology.medicine.iu.edu/graduate-programs/master-of-science/ Program Type: Strengthen application; Academic enhancement Description: This one-year, non-thesis degree program is specifically designed for graduates with B.S. degrees who wish to improve their academic credentials and their chances of successful admission to medical and other professional schools.

Kansas Post Baccalaureate Program University of Kansas | Kansas City, KS Website: www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/office-of-diversity-and-inclusion/student-pro-

grams-/post-baccalaureate-program.html

Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This 13-month structured academic program is designed to strengthen the biological and social sciences foundation for students preparing for careers in medicine. This is a conditional admission program; as a result of the successful completion of the program with a 3.25 G.P.A., each participant will matriculate into the University of Kansas School of Medicine the following fall.

Kentucky Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med Program University of Louisville | Louisville, KY Website: louisville.edu/medicine/degrees/postbacpremed Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: This two year pre-med preparation program specifically designed for career changers with a bachelor’s degree who desire to become a physician but lack the pre-med course work and preparation for medical school admission. The program seeks applicants with minimal pre-med level science courses completed in biology, chemistry and physics. Each student has a program plan tailor made just for them. Students attend school either on a part-time or full-time basis. Students may work while in the program and must maintain a minimum of six credit hours per semester (summer courses are optional). Most classes are available morning, afternoon and evening during the week.

Louisiana Masters Program in Pharmacology Tulane University School of Medicine | New Orleans, LA Website: www2.tulane.edu/som/departments/pharmacology/masters Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This one year post-baccalaureate program leads to the MS degree in Pharmacology. The program is designed for those interested in improving their credentials to gain admission to a medical or dental school. Class size is maintained at less than 35 to create a more personal connection between students & faculty. Masters Program in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine | New Orleans, LA Website: www2.tulane.edu/som/departments/biochemistry/education/ masters-program-2012.cfm Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This two-semester graduate program designed to enrich and improve credentials of graduates to apply for admission to medical, dental or other healthcare-related profession programs. The program is primarily designed to enrich and improve academic credentials of graduates. Our distinctive program emphasizes student development in four areas (coursework, experiential learning, presentation skills, and personal growth), and allows students to broaden and strengthen their academic foundation for further intellectual development, such as gaining entrance into medical-, dental- or health profession-related schools. Masters in Physiology Tulane University School of Medicine | New Orleans, LA Website: www2.tulane.edu/som/departments/physiology/graduateprogram/ program-info-2014/physiology-masters.cfm Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This program is designed to provide advanced training and understanding of the functions of the body, and to serve as the foundation for the study of medicine. Successful completion of this one-year program will increase your competitiveness for medical schools or equivalent professional programs. The program includes Advanced Medical Physiology, Neurophysiology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Translational Physiology. The program is open for applications all year around. In addition to our main curriculum, for those students also desiring some exposure to clinical medicine, the M.S. Program will facilitate voluntary participation in several clinics. Students who would like to volunteer and gain research experience, clinical experience, or shadow a doctor, the MS program will facilitate students working in a clinic focusing on providing basic healthcare to veterans. Students can participate in research, grant writing, protocol creation, and in the clinic. Masters in Cell and Molecular Biology Tulane University School of Medicine | New Orleans, LA Website: www2.tulane.edu/sse/cell/academics/graduate/masters/about.cfm Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This one-year program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of students applying to postgraduate professional schools, especially Medical and Dental School, but also Veterinary School, Optometry School, Business School, Law School, and Ph.D. programs. The program cultivates communication skills through student presentations in research seminars and Journal Clubs. Master of Science in Biological Sciences Louisiana State University Shreveport | Shreveport, LA Website: www.lsus.edu/academics/graduate-studies/graduate-programs/ master-of-science-in-biological-sciences Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: The thesis option offers a basic science approach to the study of any one of the following concentrations: cellular and molecular biology, field and organismal biology, environmental biology, and computational biology. The non-thesis health sciences concentration is available for those students who desire a non-thesis option as a means of preparing for a profession in the health sciences. A health sciences concentration is available for those students who desire non-thesis option as a means of preparing for a profession in the health sciences.

Massachusetts Postbaccalaureate Premedical Certificate University of Massachusetts | Dartmouth, MA Website: www.umassd.edu/premed/pre-healthprofessionscertificate/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This program is designed for any student who already has completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution but needs to complete the professional program undergraduate requirements before applying to the allied health program of their choice. Postbaccalaureate Pre-Medical Program Mount Holyoke College | South Hadley, MA Website: www.mtholyoke.edu/professional-graduate/postbac-premed Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The program is open to women and men preparing for medical school. Our students have earned a B.A. from an accredited college and need further undergraduate work to meet program prerequisites.

Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Elms College | Chicopee, MA Website: www.mtholyoke.edu/professional-graduate/postbac-premed Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter, Strengthen application Description: The program offers pre-PA, pre-pharmacy, pre-veterinarian, pre-chiropractic, pre-dental, pre-physical therapy, pre-occupational therapy, pre-anesthesiologist assistant, and more. Tuition includes 50% subsidization of MCAT (or PCAT, OAT, DAT or GRE) prep course. Highly diverse and international student body representing all states in the U.S. and U.S. territories (such as Guam and Puerto Rico), and countries around the world, including Brazil, Portugal, Turkey, China, Japan, Korea, Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Spain, Iraq, Poland, and many others. Students work with the premed advisor to develop their program — all programs are individualized for the specific student’s needs and the programs to which they are applying. Students who have already taken premedical prerequisite courses in chemistry can usually earn their certificates in 1 academic year (2 semesters). Students who have not taken prerequisites in chemistry or sufficient biology courses can usually finish the program in 2 academic years (4 semesters). Master of Medical Sciences in Immunology Harvard Medical School | Boston, MA Website: mmscimmunology.hms.harvard.edu/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The mission of the HMS Master of Medical Sciences in Immunology (MMSc IMM) is to provide a solid, instructional and research-based foundation in both Basic and Clinical Immunology. This program will serve the needs of students with a strong undergraduate biology background with an interest in medicine and seeking deeper knowledge of Immunology. The HMS MMSc Imm is a two-year program with two primary goals: To give students a solid foundation in Basic and Clinical Immunology in order to better understand how a new revolution is currently occurring in the treatment of numerous diseases and conditions including immunodeficiencies, allergies, chronic inflammatory diseases, transplantation and cancer. To provide students with comprehensive tools and protected time to engage in mentored research on important issues in either Basic or Clinical Immunology depending on their inclinations. This will entail working with leading Harvard faculty and will culminate in a Master’s thesis. Premedical Program Harvard Extension School | Boston, MA Website: www.extension.harvard.edu/academics/premedical-program Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The program is designed to prepare for medical or dental school through the postbaccalaureate Premedical Program at Harvard Extension School. Whether you are changing fields and need to complete all prerequisite coursework, or you are looking to strengthen your academic record, you’ll find a rigorous experience with the opportunity to earn sponsorship in this selective program. As a premedical candidate in the program, students have the opportunity to secure a composite letter of recommendation for your medical school or dental school application through sponsorship. The composite letter of recommendation is a narrative highlighting a student’s overall academic and personal strengths. Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Pre-Medical Studies Boston University | Boston, MA Website: www.bu.edu/met/programs/undergraduate/pre-medical-studies-post-baccalaureate-certificate/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This certificate program permits those with bachelor’s degrees to pursue the course requirements for admission to medical school and other health career programs. Metropolitan College has an open-enrollment policy, which means that you can register for classes without being in a certificate program or matriculating into a degree program. However, you cannot take courses during the day unless you are a degree student or enrolled in the Pre-Medical Studies certificate program. M.S. in Medical Sciences Program Boston University | Boston, MA Website: www.bumc.bu.edu/gms/masters-in-medical-sciences/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The mission of the MS in Medical Sciences (MAMS) Program is to prepare students for a career in medicine by providing an academic environment that fosters integrity, collaboration, professionalism, cultural competence and lifelong learning. The curriculum in the M.S. in Medical Sciences (MAMS) Program is closely aligned with the first year medical curriculum at Boston University School of Medicine and several courses, including the required Biochemistry and Cell Biology (BI 751) and Medical Physiology ( PH 730/731) courses which have identical content. Other graduate level courses allow students to explore additional areas of medicine and biomedical research. Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program Brandeis University | Waltham, MA Website: www.bumc.bu.edu/gms/masters-in-medical-sciences/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This program is designed for career-changers and recent college graduates who would like to take the necessary pre-requisites for medical school and other health professions programs such as dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, or podiatry. Career Changer Track: A two-year course of study for students with no science background, this track starts in the fall semester and allows students to complete all necessary prerequisites for medical school/other health professions programs. Finisher Track: A special 15-month program that offers non-science majors a pathway to complete medical/health professions school prerequisites, starting

with Organic Chemistry in the summer, then integrating into the second year of the postbac program. Students in the career-changer track are eligible for consideration for our linkage with The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Online Prerequisites for the Health Professions Massachusetts General Hospital Institute | Chicopee, MA Website: www.mtholyoke.edu/professional-graduate/postbac-premed Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter, Strengthen application Description: The program provides students with the content and preparation students need to succeed in graduate school. Courses are taught by practicing clinicians and researchers, and examples are drawn from health care. All science courses can be taken with with or without a lab. Post-Baccalaureate in Pre-Medical Program Northeastern University | Boston, MA Website: www.cps.neu.edu/degree-programs/undergraduate/bachelors-degrees/post-baccalaureate-pre-medical.php Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The program is designed for students who already hold an undergraduate degree in a science discipline and are interested in pursuing a career in medicine. Enabling students to enhance your existing academic record by completing pre-medical courses, this innovative program prepares you to successfully apply to a medical, dental, osteopathic, nursing, or other program to prepare for a career in a health professions field. Designed for students who require all or most of the basic pre-medical courses, this program offers one-on-one advising, tutoring, success coaching, and other academic support services. Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Tufts University | Medford, MA Website: as.tufts.edu/postbacpremed/ Program Type: Career changer; Late starter Description: The program is designed for students who did not intend to pursue a career in health care as undergraduates, and who now wish to take pre-health coursework for the first time. The Tufts program is uniquely positioned to accommodate a variety of health-related career goals. Students work with a health professions advisor to develop an individualized program of study chosen from a wide range of course offerings. This flexibility allows our students to pursue careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, osteopathic medicine, optometry, podiatry, or as a physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Masters in Biomedical Sciences Tufts University School of Medicine | Medford, MA Website: publichealth.tufts.edu/Academics/MBS-Microsite Program Type: Strengthen application; Academic enhancement Description: The majority of courses in this full-time program are identical to our first-year medical curriculum, and exams are held at the same times. The difference is MBS classes are smaller, allowing for more individualized instruction. The program also offers unique courses in computer-based anatomy, basic human pathology, and clinical medicine, and the introductory course in clinical medicine gives students early exposure to patient care. Post-Baccalaureate Program Worcester State University | Worcester, MA Website: publichealth.tufts.edu/Academics/MBS-Microsite Program Type: Career changer; Academic enhancement Description: This program is expected to meet the needs of students interested in medical, dental, and veterinary school as well as those interested in pharmacy, physician’s assistant, physical therapy, and optometry programs. Each student’s history is evaluated and appropriate courses are advised based upon his/her specific needs. Students have access to Worcester State’s Pre-Medical and Health Professions Advisory Committee and, if necessary for a program, the recommendation letter process. This program is part-time and classes are offered primarily in the evening. It is designed for students who need the basic science curriculum either as new courses (career changers) or as repeat attempts (GPA enhancement).

Maryland Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore, MD Website: krieger.jhu.edu/postbac/ Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This program is designed to meet the needs of talented individuals from a multiplicity of backgrounds, this program is right for students that have compiled an excellent academic record in college, have taken no or few premed courses, never applied to medical school or taken the MCAT, are committed to serving others, and have the ultimate goal of entering the medical profession. Full-time study is required for at least one academic year; most students finish the program in 9 to 14 months. This highly selective program emphasizes personal attention and academic preparation for the best medical schools. If students wish to accelerate their enrollment in medical school, skipping the glide year altogether, there are options to do so via “linkage” arrangements with several outstanding medical schools. MCAT preparation is included as part of the post-bac program.

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Post-Baccalaureate Premed Program Goucher College | Baltimore, MD Website: www.goucher.edu/graduate-programs/post-baccalaureate-premed-program Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The program is designed for students who have not previously taken the science classes required for admission to medical school. Occasionally, the program admits students who have taken one or two of the science prerequisites. This program is designed for students to learn alongside other like-minded students, in small classes focused on the distinctive needs of post-baccalaureate premedical students. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities for practical experience available in the Baltimore area and the linkages Goucher has developed with prominent medical schools. And in one year, students will earn a certificate by completing the courses necessary to pursue a career in medicine. Classes are small— typically 32 post-bacc students in the lecture part of class, 16 in each lab—and have been designed with the particular needs of post-bac students in mind. The program offers workshops, speakers, and panels throughout the year addressing various aspects of applying to medical school and working in the profession. Science in the Evening (SIE) University of Maryland | Baltimore, MD Website: oes.umd.edu/graduates-post-baccalaureates-professionals/post-baccalaure-

ate-programs/science-evening

Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This non-degree, post-baccalaureate program provides the pre-requisite coursework needed to apply to most medical, dental, and veterinary schools or biotechnology/biosciences graduate programs. With SIE, students acquire knowledge of the basic foundational curriculum in biology, chemistry, and physics needed for any life sciences career. SIE prepares students who have little or no background in science to succeed with key concepts, outstanding faculty, rigorous academics, and exceptional advising. Accommodating busy schedules, Science in the Evening is offered at convenient evening meeting times at the College Park campus. Courses meet face to face in campus classrooms during UMD’s fall and spring semesters. Master of Health Science (MHS) Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health | Baltimore, MD Website: oes.umd.edu/graduates-post-baccalaureates-professionals/post-baccalaure-

ate-programs/science-evening

Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The Master of Health Science (MHS) degree program is designed for students interested in graduate-level preparation for careers in medicine, public health, and related health sciences. Our MHS students pursue advanced graduate work, a career in medicine, or positions in industry or public health. The MHS program is completed in one academic year (late August through mid May). The program’s flexible curriculum allows opportunity to take courses throughout the Bloomberg School of Public Health. Post-Bacc Health Science Intensive Johns Hopkins University Krieger School of Arts & Sciences | Baltimore, MD Website: oes.umd.edu/graduates-post-baccalaureates-professionals/post-baccalaure-

ate-programs/science-evening

Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: The Johns Hopkins University Post-Baccalaureate Health Science Intensive Program is a unique concentration in the MS in Biotechnology program. In one-year as a full-time student, you will be immersed in an innovative 360° curriculum specifically created to help students like you who want to build a more competitive medical school application. This 360° curriculum includes the traditional advanced science academic coursework necessary to bolster a students academic record for a successful medical school application (knowledge) along with the practical skills (tools) necessary to use them in the field (application) as well as the advice and mentoring necessary to be successful (support). This unique approach is designed to help students prepare simultaneously for application to medical school and success in medical school while concurrently earning a Master of Science in Biotechnology degree from Johns Hopkins University.

Maine Certificate in Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Studies University of Southern Maine | Portland, ME Website: oes.umd.edu/graduates-post-baccalaureates-professionals/post-baccalaure-

ate-programs/science-evening

Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This certificate program is designed for students who have already graduated from college with a baccalaureate degree and who seek to fulfill the science course requirements for admission to schools of medicine or dentistry, or to physician assistant programs.

Michigan Masters in Molecular & Integrative Physiology University of Michigan Medical School | Ann Arbor, MI Website: https://medicine.umich.edu/dept/molecular-integrative-physiology/education/

masters-program

Program Type: Career-changer, Late starter Description: This program is designed for students who wish to earn an M.S. degree and who plan, after program completion, to pursue application to a health profession program such as Medical School or Dental School. Students will choose to pursue either: An intensive, research-oriented track during which the student will spend their time both in classes and in a research laboratory, which will allow the student to explore their interest in research

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and prepare them for the workforce or a health professional graduate program or An intensive, course-oriented track that will prepare the student for the rigors of health professional graduate programs. Postbac MEDPREP University of Michigan Medical School | Ann Arbor, MI Website: https://medicine.umich.edu/medschool/education/non-degree-programs/

postbac-medprep

Program Type: Career-changer Description: This program is an 8 to 14-month program designed to enable someone without a science background to prepare for medical school and a career as a physician. Postbac MEDPREP includes science-intensive coursework, health care experiential learning opportunities, training and preparation for the MCAT exam, and comprehensive support throughout the medical school application process. is designed for those who want to take a new path in their professional life. Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Premedical Studies Lawrence Technological University | Ann Arbor, MI Website: www.ltu.edu/arts_sciences/naturalsciences/post-bacc-certificate-premedi-

cal-studies.asp

Program Type: Career-changer Description: This program is designed for college graduates who are interested in pursuing a professional medical career but have taken few or none of the science courses needed for admission to a medical, dental, veterinary, pharmacy, or other allied health school. The first such program in Michigan, the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Premedical Studies provides the specific, rigorous preparation in English, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics that medical schools require.

Maine Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program Northwestern Health Sciences University | Bloomington, MN Website: www.nwhealth.edu/undergraduate-health-sciences/post-bacc/ Program Type: Career-changer Description: Students who have a bachelor’s degree can enroll in the program and complete prerequisites for a healthcare professional school. By taking accelerated courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics, students can complete one full academic year of a two-course sequence in only one 15-week semester - half the time it typically takes in other post-bac pre-health programs.

Missouri Post-Baccalaureate Program Avila University | Kansas City, MO Website: www.avila.edu/academics/schools-colleges/school-of-science-health/pre-

health-professions/postbaccalaureate-program whealth.edu/undergraduate-health-sciences/ post-bacc/

Program Type: Career-changer Description: The program is designed to help prepare students with a baccalaureate degree in a non-science field to obtain the science courses and academic advising to gain admission to a Health Professions School. The Prehealth Professions Post-Baccalaureate advisor works with each student to plan the student’s individual program of study.

Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Rockhurst University | Kansas City, MO Website: ww2.rockhurst.edu/pre-medical-post-baccalaureateType: Career-changer Description: The mission of the program is to provide quality science education and academic advising for individuals with a desire to pursue a career path in health sciences such as medicine, dentistry or as a physician assistant. The program is designed to provide future physicians with the foundational coursework, standardized test preparation and real-world experience necessary for a successful medical school application. The program is geared toward students who have completed a baccalaureate program in any discipline, and now wish to fulfill science requirements for medical school. Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program Washington University in St. Louis | St. Louis, MO Website: college.wustl.edu/programs/postbaccalaureate/premed# Type: Career-changer, Strengthen Application Description: The Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Program (PBPM), is designed to offer students a curriculum that not only helps students fulfill program admission requirements but is also tailored to student needs. You will have access to a robust offering of premedical courses; clinical and nonclinical volunteer opportunities; research opportunities; MCAT preparation; one-on-one advising; and a community that will share in each students goals. Students are not required to retake core courses that they have already successfully completed, but may choose to retake core courses in subject area(s) where they desire a firmer foundation.

and; therefore, experience an application glide year. Students are encouraged students to consider the 1-year Master of Science in Health Sciences program during the glide year to further enhance their academic foundation prior to professional school matriculation. Another aspect of the professional school application process requires that students demonstrate an informed choice to enter the health care field. The Certificate program facilitates acquisition of this experience through a partnership with Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for a clinical observation course.

North Carolina Master of Science in Biomedical Science Program Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem, NC Website: internal.graduate.wfu.edu/admissions/BMSC.html Program Type: Strengthen Application Description: The Master of Science in Biomedical Science degree is a full-time, graduate degree option that is designed to help students with a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a major in the sciences, improve their academic foundation in the biomedical sciences, and augment their credentials for admission into health professional programs, Ph.D. study in the sciences, or entrance to the workforce. Applicants who wish to complete the master’s program as preparatory to medical school should select the “Biomedical Science/PB-MS” (BMSC/PB) program on the on-line application. This component of our master’s program will aid students who have already completed medical school prerequisites and earned a baccalaureate degree to enhance their current science knowledge with graduate level medical science classes and MCAT preparation to increase their competitiveness for health professional school admissions or other medical science careers. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program Guilford College | Greensboro, NC Website: www.guilford.edu/academics/departments-and-programs/ health-sciences/post-baccalaureate-pre-health-program/index.aspx Program Type: Strengthen Application Description: The post-baccalaureate pre-medical & pre-health studies program is designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree and now wish to prepare for graduate study in the health professions such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physician assistant, pharmacy, physical therapy or occupational therapy. The post-baccalaureate pre-medical & pre-health studies program provides a coherent, individualized course of study that allows students to complete or retake the required science and social science courses to prepare for admission to a graduate program in the health field of their choice. Premedical & Predental Post-Baccalaureate Program University of North Carolina at Greensboro | Greensboro, NC Website: biology.uncg.edu/undergraduate/post-bacc/ Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: This program is designed for career-change individuals who have not yet completed the courses that are required for applying to medical, dental, or other health professional schools. It can also serve students who have earned a science degree, but now desire to enhance their academic records. Even post-baccalaureate students who lack any science background can, within 15 months of summer matriculation, complete the prerequisite courses for the Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT) or the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) by enrolling in this program. Pre-health Post Baccalureate Certificate Program Meredith College | Raleigh, NC Website: www.meredith.edu/academics/graduate_programs/pre-health/ Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: This program is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who are interested in either preparing to enter a healthcare field— through medical school or other allied health programs—or enhancing their credentials for re-application to medical school. The program offers individualized advising, small classes and assistance finding shadowing and clinical experiences. In addition, faculty members provide a committee letter of recommendation for applicants to programs in the healthcare field. MCAT study sessions are provided for students working toward acceptance into medical school.

Nebraska Pre-Medical Post-Baccalaureate Program Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem, NC Website: healthsciences.creighton.edu/multicultural-and-community-affairs/ post-baccalaureate-program/pre-medical Program Type: Strengthen Application Description: The goal of this program is to prepare students for admission to medical school To be eligible you must have been denied admission to a medical school, be disadvantaged either educationally or environmentally, and be either a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Montana

New Jersey

Post Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Certificate Montana State University | Bozeman, MT Website: www.montana.edu/hpa/postbacc Program Type: Career-changer Description: As a ‘career-changing’ program, students accepted into this program have earned a non-science bachelor’s degree and have often been employed prior to deciding to pursue medicine or health care (see requirements). Students apply to professional school at the end of the Certificate program

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Preparation Program Drew University | Winston-Salem, NC Website: healthsciences.creighton.edu/multicultural-and-community-affairs/ post-baccalaureate-program/pre-medical Program Type: Career changer Description: The Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Preparation Program is designed for students who need additional undergraduate course work in math and the sciences in preparation for application to medical or other

health professions schools. A health professions advisor is available to help guide and mentor students in this program. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Preparation students have access to the same academic resources and activities as other Drew students, including our graduate-level library, full network access and extracurricular activities. In some circumstances, students who do not meet the minimum GPA requirements for the Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Preparation Program may be offered admission to our general non-matriculation program: the Post-Baccalaureate Program. Post-Baccalaureate Program University of Nevada School of Medicine | Reno, NV Website: internal.graduate.wfu.edu/admissions/BMSC.html Program Type: Strengthen Application Description: The School of Medicine, in partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and Nevada State College, offers a structured, one-year certificate program designed for students who need GPA improvement, MCAT preparation, or additional upper division science coursework to be competitive for medical school admissions. The course load and schedule is very rigorous - the program is intended to mimic the intensity of medical school to prepare the students for the difficult work ahead. Programs of study are created individually for each student based on their academic needs. Students are also required to attend regular teambased-learning seminars as well as monthly advising meetings throughout the year. At the end of the academic year, students take an intensive MCAT preparation course before they take the test in mid-late summer.

New York Premedical Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Natural Science Hofstra University | Old Westbury, NY Website: www.hofstra.edu/academics/grad/grad_postbacc_premed.html Program Type: Strengthen Application, Career changer Description: This program provides the opportunity for students who hold a bachelor’s degree and who have not previously studied the sciences to prepare for entrance into a medical profession of their choice. Students may also retake science courses to demonstrate an improved mastery of those subjects. The full program, consisting of a minimum of 32 credits, can take as little as 15 months to complete depending on your academic background. Students meet one-on-one with a pre-health advisor to select and register for classes. Postbaccalaureate Health Studies Program New York University | New York, NY Website: postbacc.cas.nyu.edu/page/home Program Type: Career changer Description: Applicants to the program are career changers, whom have at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. When reviewing applications, the program considers all aspects, including the applicant’s academic record, professional goals, past experiences, and letter of recommendation. Successful applicants have clearly communicated their intentions and demonstrated efforts toward pursuing a career in the health professions. NYU currently has linkage agreements with six medical and one dental schools. Sciences for the Health Professions Certificate Farmingdale State College | Farmingdale, NY Website: postbacc.cas.nyu.edu/page/home Program Type: Career changer Description: The Certificate in Sciences for the Health Professions is a post-baccalaureate science program designed to meet the needs of students with bachelor’s degrees in non-science fields who seek a career change into the health professions, but lack some or all of the necessary science and mathematics background. Post Baccalaureate Pre-Medical/Pre-Health Program Fordham University | Bronx, NY Website: www.fordham.edu/info/21774/fordham_post_baccalaureate_ pre-medicalpre-health_program Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is for college graduates interested in a career in the health professions but still in need of the prerequisite science courses. The program offers the pre-med curriculum primarily in the evening, on weekends, and during the summer to prepare students for application to medical, dental or veterinary schools, nursing, physician assistant or physical therapy programs. Post-baccalaureate Pre-Health Program University of Rochester | Rochester, NY Website: www.sas.rochester.edu/prehealth/ Program Type: Career changer Description: Designed for career changers, the program serves to prepare individuals seeking admission to professional schools. Whether medicine, dentistry, vet, nursing or others, the program allows individuals with a bachelors degree to complete the pre-requisite coursework necessary for their intended professional program. The program is also currently in the process of developing several linkage programs and an MCAT test prep course as part of the program. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program Stonybrook University | Stonybrook, NY Website: www.stonybrook.edu/spd/prehealth/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program allows students to take coursework at Stony Brook University to prepare for careers in medicine, dentistry, or other doctoral-level health-related fields. The program is designed for career-changer students

who lack requisite math and science courses needed to apply to professional programs. Students in the program are given special preference for registration into the basic courses required for schools of the health professions, i.e., basic biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics. These courses are in high demand and non-matriculated students (i.e., post-bac students) usually must register after all undergraduates, which results in great difficulty for them to meet the requirements for application to health profession schools. Successful applicants to our Post-Bac program are given preference in registering for these basic courses. The Linkage Program is designed for Stony Brook Post-Bac students only and can mitigate the need for a “gap year” in the applications process for applicants to the Stony Brook School of Medicine. Students who take the MCAT in April usually enter medical school in the following “gap year.” Linkage students take the MCAT in April and, if accepted, may enter the Stony Brook School of Medicine in the fall of the same year. Once nominated, the applicant must still compete with all applicants to the medical school. The Stony Brook Faculty Committee on Health Professions can nominate up to five students for linkage; the medical school is under no obligation to accept any of them. Certificate in Basic Sciences for Health Professions Adelphi University | Garden City, NY Website: university-college.adelphi.edu/academics/certificate-programs/ certificate-in-basic-sciences-for-health-professions/ Program Type: Career changer Description: This Basic Sciences for Health Professions certificate program focuses on all factors that are important to medical school applications, including science course work, medical volunteer experience, attaining good scores on the MCAT (the medical graduate admissions test), and securing important recommendations from academic and medical professionals. Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Columbia University | New York, NY Website: gs.columbia.edu/postbac/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program allows students, alongside all other Columbia University undergraduates, to complete the academic prerequisites for admission to schools of allopathic medicine, osteopathic medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and graduate programs in allied health fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or physician’s assistant programs. Additionally, the program provides students with opportunities for practical clinical and research experience, guidance throughout the medical school application process, and institutional support through a letter of recommendation. Postbac Premed students come from a wide range of backgrounds. Some have already begun a career and are looking for more from their professional lives, others have experienced personal situations that inspired them to go into a medical field, and some are seeking the science education they didn’t take as an undergraduate. Upon arriving at campus, Postbac Premed students have completed a rigorous undergraduate education, but have completed little to no premedical sciences coursework; they are not looking for academic enhancement in their academic records. Post Baccalaureate Pre-Health Manhattanville College | Purchase, NY Website: www.mville.edu/programs/post-baccalaureate-pre-health Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is geared toward students interested in applying to graduate or professional preparation in the Health Sciences, particularly in the fields of Medicine (M.D., D.O., D.V.M.), Dentistry, Physical Therapy, and Optometry. The Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Professions (PBPH) at Manhattanville College is designed for two types of students: 1.) Students who have earned a bachelor’s degree with a major and/or minor outside of the sciences and are now seeking to complete the necessary pre-requisite core courses required of most graduate preparation in the Health Sciences; and 2.) Students who have earned a bachelor’s degree with a major or minor in the sciences and are currently seeking academic enhancement of existing science courses by repeating course work already taken and/or enrolling in upper-level science courses. Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Health Studies Cornell University | Ithaca, NY Website: www.sce.cornell.edu/sp/health_studies/index.php Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The is a biomedical and clinical sciences academic enhancement and enrichment program for qualified, highly motivated students who wish to enhance their academic career with a one-year individualized and rigorous science-based educational program.

Ohio Pre-Medical Post-Baccalaureate Program John Carroll University | University Heights, OH Website: www.sce.cornell.edu/sp/health_studies/index.php Program Type: Career changer Description: This program is designed for students who want to fulfill the requirements for admission to medical school, dental school, and other professional health care schools. The program is an excellent way to fulfill undergraduate science prerequisites needed to apply to these schools and improve scores on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Post Bacc./M.D. Pathway Northeast Ohio Medical University | Cleveland, OH Website: www.neomed.edu/medicine/admissions/paths/post-bacc-md/ Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: This program 2-year program offers provisional admission to medical school. The program is designed for students with a bachelor’s

degree and an interest in practicing as a community-based doctor in an urban setting in a primary care field such as family medicine. Upon acceptance as a provisionally admitted student to the NEOMED Post-Bacc./M.D. program, students will have a seat reserved for them as a first-year medicine student at NEOMED. These students will be promoted to NEOMED if all promotion requirements, are met. Pre-Professional Health Programs Cleveland State University | Cleveland, OH Website: university-college.adelphi.edu/academics/certificate-programs/ certificate-in-basic-sciences-for-health-professions/ Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: There are two types of students that choose the Individualized Post Baccalaureate Options: Career Changers: Students who fall into this category most often have a degree in a non-science area. Many of our students come from social science and business backgrounds, but we’ve had students with degrees in Art History and Music as well. Grade Enhancers: Students who fall into this category generally do have degrees in the sciences and come to CSU to repeat core coursework or to take upper level undergraduate coursework to enhance their cumulative and science GPA. The Individualized Post Baccalaureate Program does not have a fixed curriculum. The number of courses and the program duration will be determined by your career goals and by previous undergraduate coursework. Post baccalaureate students receive the same student support services such as advising and the many extracurricular opportunities available to undergraduate students. MEDPATH Ohio State University | Columbus, OH Website: medicine.osu.edu/students/diversity/Programs/medpath/Pages/ index.aspx Program Type: Educationally and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged Description: The Program’s aim is to increase the number of underrepresented minorities and students from educationally and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds who enter medical school, and who show evidence of a commitment to practice in a medically underserved community. To complement this mission, students who are not underrepresented or from disadvantaged backgrounds may also be considered for admission to MEDPATH with the following conditions: The student must show clear evidence of a commitment to practice in a medically underserved community. This can be demonstrated by extensive volunteer activity in service to an underserved or disadvantaged community (e.g., free clinics, mobile health units, American Indian reservations) or other extensive volunteer service to persons from lower socioeconomic communities). In addition, at least one personal/professional experience letter, submitted through AMCAS, that attests to the candidate’s desire to serve underserved communities as a physician is highly desirable. Post Baccalaureate Prehealth Certificate Program Northeastern State University | Tahlequah, OK Website: academics.nsuok.edu/prehealth/PostBacCertificate.aspx Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application, Underrepresented Minorities Description: The post baccalaureate prehealth certificate program targets students who have earned a non-science bachelor degree and provides them with the opportunity to obtain necessary prerequisites for competitive entry into their health professions program of interest. The post bac curriculum provides the rigor that the professional programs require, which will enhance your competitive edge for admission. The post baccalaureate programs primarily targets second career individuals with little or no science background. However, individuals that are underrepresented minorities who are economically or educationally disadvantaged, individuals that have already applied to their health profession program, individuals that require additional courses to enhance their academic record, or individuals that require leveling courses to be competitive for entry into a graduate program, and are not currently competitive for a career in health professions or graduate school are able to enroll in the sciences courses offered in the post baccalaureate program. These individuals are not eligible to receive a certificate however.

Oregon Post Baccalaureate Pre-medical Program Oregon State University | Corvallis , OR Website: www.science.oregonstate.edu/node/356 Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for students with successful first degrees looking to change careers. This is an informal program where students take the courses they need along with the regular students, and take advantage of all the extensive support services available in the premed program. Most students seeking to complete prerequisites (not a major) will typically need two full years and then apply during their third summer. Students entering the program with limited health care experience will definitely need the full two years of preparation. For a student with excellent grades from their first degree, chemistry and math credit, and good health care experience, a shorter timeline of two summers and one full year may be possible in some cases.

Pennsylvania Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program Temple University | Philadelphia, PA Website: cst.temple.edu/academics/graduate-programs/prehealth Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: The CST Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program is for students planning to apply to medical school or other health professional schools: dental, physician assistant, veterinary. Successful applicants to this program

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have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above, a documented history of service, knowledge of the health career profession and strong letters of recommendation.The CST Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Health Program offers two tracks, one for college graduates who have not taken the required science courses; Basic Core in Health Science (BCHS) and one for students who possess a background in science; Advanced Core in Health Science (ACHS). Postbaccalaureate Program Lewis Katz School of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA Website: medicine.temple.edu/education/postbac-program Program Type: Career-changer, Strengthen application Description: The program is designed to specifically prepare students for success in our medical school and as practicing physicians. The program has two tracks of study; the Basic Core in Medical Sciences for those students now considering a career in medicine and the Advanced Core in Medical Sciences for students who already have a passion for medicine and want to enrich their science backgrounds. Every student accepted into the program receives a conditional acceptance to the Lewis Katz School of Medicine and successful completion of their track of study results in direct matriculation without a gap year. Matriculants to the program have demonstrated academic excellence, documented history of community service, medically related volunteer experience and strong letters of recommendation. Drexel Pathway to Medical School Drexel University College of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA Website: medicine.temple.edu/education/postbac-program Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This is a one-year master’s degree program with early assurance into the College of Medicine. The program provides students who have taken pre-med classes the opportunity to further enhance their academic background in preparation for medical school studies. Drexel Pathway to Medical School students who meet the GPA and MCAT score requirements matriculate into the MD program. The early assurance is a conditional acceptance for matriculation into Drexel University College of Medicine following successful completion of the program with achievement of the academic and professional benchmarks outlined in the DPMS program policies. The purpose of the Drexel Pathway to Medical School program is to promote diversity at Drexel University College of Medicine by providing opportunities to individuals who come from socially or economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Program Drexel University College of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA Website: drexel.edu/medicine/Academics/Graduate-School/Interdisciplinary-Health-Sciences/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The flexible curriculum of this full-time, two-year master of science program allows students to create an academic experience consistent with their health care career goals. Such customization also allows students to consider health science career pathways they wouldn’t have previously considered. The Interdisciplinary Health Sciences program provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to succeed in rigorous science courses with content relevant to their chosen health care profession. In this way, students may strengthen their academic record for health professional schools, or for direct entry into the health care workforce. Interdepartmental Medical Science Program Drexel University College of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA Website: drexel.edu/medicine/academics/Graduate-School/interdepartmental-medical-science/ Program Type: Late starter, Strengthen application Description: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates basic science courses presented at the level of first-year medical school. Applicants to the Interdepartmental Medical Science program include students: Who are late in their decision to apply to medical school; Interested in improving their academic record before applying or reapplying to medical school; and Interested in applying to dental, optometry, podiatry, chiropractic or other health professional schools. Considered a “special master’s” program, the Interdepartmental Medical Science program affords students the opportunity to take actual first-year medical school courses. Evening Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Drexel University College of Medicine | Philadelphia, PA Website: drexel.edu/medicine/Academics/Graduate-School/Evening-Post-baccalaureate-Pre-medical/ Program Type: Late starter, Strengthen application Description: This program allows an individual with a non-science baccalaureate degree the opportunity to continue his or her current career while fulfilling undergraduate pre-requisite science courses for most health professional schools. Changing careers is often a very difficult decision for individuals to make. This program will help candidates transition into a new career by allowing them to maintain their current position while completing the prerequisite coursework for application to medical, dental, physician’s assistant, veterinary or other health professional schools. Pre-Medical Program West Chester University | West Chester, PA Website: www.wcupa.edu/sciences-mathematics/preMed/post_bac_info.asp Program Type: Career changer Description: The Pre-Medical Program prepares undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students for application to the health professional schools of medicine (allopathic or osteopathic), dentistry, optometry, podiatry, and veterinary medicine; physician and pathology assistant programs; and careers in biomedical research. To apply for the program, students should have a non-science major, have not take the required science courses, or have not

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taken the MCAT, GRE or similar professional school exam. The program is not a degree or certificate program. SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Bryn Mawr | Bryn Mawr, PA Website: www.brynmawr.edu/postbac Program Type: Career-changer Description: The program is designed for women and men like you who are highly motivated to pursue a career in medicine but have not taken the required premedical courses as undergraduates. Over a 12-month period of intensive, full-time study in the classroom, the program aims to prepare students for the challenges of medical school. A feature of the program is the links with many medical schools that offer conditional early acceptance to students of the program. The Benjamin and Mary Measey Foundation has made an annual award to the Bryn Mawr College Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program for a limited amount of scholarship funds for disadvantaged postbaccalaureate premedical students enrolled in the Bryn Mawr program who are in good academic standing. Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Certificate Program LaSalle University | Philadelphia, PA Website: www.lasalle.edu/post-bacc/ Program Type: Career changer Description: This is a career change program and students with Baccalaureate degrees in the biological sciences are not eligible. To receive the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Certificate and be eligible to apply to one of the linkage programs, students must complete 7 science/math courses at La Salle University. Students ranging in age from the early 20’s to mid-40’s representing diverse academic, geographic, and cultural backgrounds participate in La Salle’s Post-Baccalaureate Premedical Certificate Program. The students bring with them experiences in such fields as art, business, music, psychology, nutrition, and nursing. All students receive direct guidance from their advisor on selection of course work, gaining volunteer experience, preparation for the MCAT or other appropriate admissions tests, and completing the application process. A linkage program exists with Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. The advantage of such a program is that students do not have to sit-out the typical “glide year” between the time they apply to medical school and the time they start. Eligible candidates can apply, be accepted and matriculate within the same year. LINKAGE PROGRAMS

Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Programs University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA Website: www.upenn.edu/prehealth Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: The Pre-Health Core Studies program supplies students who have little scientific background with key concepts and the rigorous training necessary to succeed in the professional health school of their choice. The PreHealth Specialized Studies program is for students who possess a background in the sciences, but who are seeking to bolster their academic credentials and extend their studies. Many students don’t fit neatly into either track, and experienced advisors can help you develop a personalized profile of classes. Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Programs Thomas Jefferson University | Philadelphia, PA Website: www.jefferson.edu/university/biomedical-sciences/degrees-programs/postbaccalaureate-pre-professional.html Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for individuals seeking to complete their basic science requirements in preparation for entrance to medical and other health-professional schools. The P4 program currently has linkage agreements with the following medical schools: Sidney Kimmel Medical College and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. The Program is designed for academically accomplished individuals seeking to participate in extensive shadowing and volunteer opportunities and fulfill their science requirements before applying for admission to medical/professional school. The one-year track provides students with an accelerated curriculum and is more appropriate for students who already have clinical and volunteer experiences. The two-year track provides students with more time to complete their coursework, as well as providing additional time for outside activities (clinical/volunteer opportunities, part-time employment, etc.). Both tracks provide students with identical training and curriculum to prepare them for admission to medical/ professional school. Students are also eligible for on-campus housing. Health Sciences Post Baccalaureate Program Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine | Erie, PA Website: lecom.edu/academics/health-sciences-post-baccalaureate-program/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The Health Sciences Post Baccalaureate Program offers a rigorous curriculum centered on the basic medical sciences to prepare students for medical, pharmacy or dental programs. The program is designed to take 8 months to complete. Health Sciences Post Baccalaureate Program Rosemont College | Rosemont, PA Website: www.rosemont.edu/academics/undergraduate/post-bacc-medical Program Type: Career changer, Strengthen application Description: This designed to prepare students to enter graduate or professional school programs in the health care fields. This program serves two groups of students: career changers and/or record enhancers. Students in the program receive one-on-one advising throughout the program of study to assist you with course selection and professional school applications. Students who successfully complete the program will receive a letter of recommenda-

tion to include in their application to professional and /or graduate school. Rosemont College also offers a one credit MCAT Review course to all students. Pre-Medical and Health Professions Programs Duquesne University | Pittsburgh, PA Website: www.duq.edu/academics/degrees-and-programs/pre-medical-and-health-professions/post-baccalaureate-program Program Type: Career-changer, Strengthen application Description: This program is designed to assist students, both those who decide later in their undergraduate programs but who lack the basic requirements, or those who hope to enhance their record, in gaining the necessary course work and preparation to achieve higher scores on entrance examinations (e.g., MCAT, DAT, GRE, OAT) needed for admission. Students enrolled in the PB-PMHPP Certificate Options have the opportunity to apply to the competitive PB-PMHPP Linkage program with the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). Through Duquesne’s Linkage agreement, qualified PB-PMHPP students may make early application to LECOM and thereby eliminate the need to sit-out the typical “glide year” between the time of application and the time medical school starts. For a career changer pathway applicant, the program is two years and most likely will include a summer term. For the enhancement pathway, the program is typically one year.

Rhode Island Gateways Program Brown University, Warren Alpert Medical School | Providence, RI Website: www.brown.edu/academics/medical/education/other-programs/ gateways Program Type: Career-changer, Strengthen application Description: The Gateways Program offers two courses of study: Master of Science in Medical Sciences: In this one-year, full-time program, students will complete 8.5 required courses culminating in a Master of Science (ScM) in Medical Sciences from Brown University. Courses include all four of the basic science courses and two of the three organ system courses undertaken by first-year medical students at Alpert Medical School. Students also complete a unique seminar course series about pressing issues in today’s health care system, such as social determinants of disease, population health, interdisciplinary teamwork, quality improvement, and health care communication. Integrated into this course series will be a longitudinal service learning experience at a community healthcare site and an associated community-based capstone project. Certificate in Medical Science: For this one-year certificate program, students will complete 6 required courses: all four of the basic science courses and two of the three organ system courses undertaken by first-year medical students at Alpert Medical School. Students also have the freedom to independently pursue other areas of interest during this academic year, including part-time research opportunities and/or a 3-week, full-time immersion experience. Pre-Health Professions Certificate Providence College | Providence, RI Website: www.providence.edu/continuing-education/programs/Pages/ pre-med-pre-health-professions-certificate.aspx Program Type: Career-changer, Recent graduates Description: This 24-credit, part-time program is aimed at recent graduates and career changers who need to take the science and math courses that are required for admission into medical school or another graduate program — in dentistry, physician assistant, veterinary medicine, optometry, physical therapy, advance practice nursing, pharmacy, public health, or other health professions.

South Carolina Master of Science in Medical Sciences Medical University of South Carolina | Charleston, SC Website: academicdepartments.musc.edu/grad/MS%20Medical%20Sciences Program Type: Career-changer, Recent graduates Description: The Master of Science in Medical Sciences is a one-year program specifically designed to provide students with a structured opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills that will prepare them for the challenges of applying to and succeeding in medical school and other professional schools. This on-site program contains didactic coursework at the professional level, professional skills development sessions, standardized test (e.g. MCAT or DAT) preparation, and clinical exposures to form a complementary skill set to those that have been acquired at the undergraduate level.

Tennessee Post-baccalaureate Program Carson-Newman College | Jefferson City, TN Website: www.cn.edu/undergraduate/programs/health-pre-professions/ post-baccalaureate-program Program Type: Career-changer, Recent graduates Description: The program is designed for students to use the foundation of their bachelor’s degree to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, and a host of other health professions. The program is not a degree program or a graduate program. It is a bridge program to prepare BA/BS students for admission to health professional schools. An individualized curriculum is designed based on the background, interests, and needs of each student. Requirements are generally determined by the career choice and the specific professional schools where admission is sought. This intensive program is designed to be completed in 12 to 24 months by full time students (taking a minimum of 12 semester

hours). It is primarily geared toward the student who has a non-science degree or those who seek career changes requiring additional science courses for admission. The required curriculum is intended to help ensure that every student has the academic background to be competitive in the admissions process to a professional school.

Virginia Medical Master’s Program Eastern Virginia Medical School | Norfolk, VA Website: www.evms.edu/education/masters_programs/medical_masters_program Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The ‌degree is a one or two year special master’s program. The majority of the courses are medical school courses and all are taught by medical school faculty. The program provides an opportunity for highly motivated students to improve their academic credentials by demonstrating their academic abilities in a rigorous medical school environment. For this reason, it is particularly suitable to help students make themselves more competitive applicants to medical or dental programs. Program applications may be reviewed within two weeks. Students are paired with a first-year medical student who has successfully completed your program. GeorgeSquared/Graduate Certificate in Advanced Biomedical Sciences George Mason University/Georgetown University | Manassas, VA Website: cos.gmu.edu/georgesquared/ Program Type: Strengthen application, Career changer, Recent grad Description: This is a full-time 9-month, 20 credit graduate level certificate program which provides excellent advanced science preparation for health professions including medical, dental and other healthcare-related advanced studies. The program includes preparation for professional examinations (such as MCAT, DAT, or GRE), and outstanding advising and support towards your goals. Graduate Certificate Premedical Program Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine | Blacksburg, VA Website: www.vcom.edu/premedical_admissions Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This 1-year graduate level program designed for students who need to enhance their academics in order to gain acceptance to an osteopathic (DO) or allopathic (MD) medical program. It provides an opportunity for highly motivated individuals to grow as a student and to improve their academics to a level that can allow them to earn admittance into medical school. The program is offered to attract individuals from rural areas, low socioeconomic status backgrounds, and underrepresented minorities, although acceptance is not limited to individuals from these groups. Students who meet these benchmarks at the end of the Fall Semester will be granted a seat in the DO Program at one of the VCOM campuses for the following August. Such offers of acceptance will be contingent on continued strong performance within the

program and maintaining the exceptional recommendation from the faculty. Premedical Graduate Health Sciences Certificate Program Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond, VA Website: www.medschool.vcu.edu/graduate/premed_cert/ Program Type: Strengthen application Description: This one-year, graduate-level program for individuals seeking to enhance their qualifications for admission into professional school, including Medical, Dental, and Veterinary School. Students who successfully complete the Certificate Program also have an opportunity to continue to a Master of Science (M.S.) or Ph.D. degree program within the School of Medicine. The CERT Program is structured to improve overall competitiveness for admission into professional school. The CERT Curriculum allows students to enhance their academic record through graduate-level, medically-relevant courses offered by the program. In the spring semester, the program provides additional opportunities to strengthen standardized test scores, increase clinical or research experience, as well as gain volunteer experience in the community. Students successfully finishing the program with a GPA of 3.5 and presenting an MCAT score of 28 (505 on the new MCAT) or higher are guaranteed an interview for the medical school at VCU, for the application cycle following completion of the CERT Program. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program University of Virginia | Charlottesville, VA Website: www.medschool.vcu.edu/graduate/premed_cert/ Program Type: Career changer, Late starter Description: This program is designed for college graduates with strong academic records who have made a late decision to pursue a career in medicine. The one-year, full-time, residential program provides the science courses students need to be eligible for medical school admission. Well-qualified students may be able to skip their glide year and matriculate in medical school in the fall immediately following the program.

Vermont SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program Bennington College | Bennington, VT Website: www.bennington.edu/academics/graduate-postbac-programs/ postbaccalaureate-premedical-program Program Type: Career changer, Late starter Description: The postbac curriculum is designed so that students can complete the basic requirements for medical school in one year. The Field Work Term offers students the opportunity to work or volunteer in a setting of your choosing—shadowing a doctor, assisting in research, volunteering abroad—or many other possibilities—to gain further hands-on experience prior to medical school. The program reviews applications holistically. In addition to strong

academic performance, we value experience in the field, a clear statement of your reasons to pursue an MD, DO, or DDS, strong personal qualities, and a desire to learn in a collaborative and interactive academic setting. A small number of alumni-funded awards are offered to outstanding applicants to the Low-Residency MFA in Writing Program. A limited number of merit-based institutional grants are awarded to highly qualified applicants to the Postbac Premed Program. SCHOLARSHIP OFFERED

Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program University of Vermont | Burlington, VT Website: learn.uvm.edu/program/post-baccalaureate-premedical-program Program Type: Career changer, Recent grad Description: This program is designed to provide students with the prerequisite coursework and access to research and direct patient care experiences prior to applying to health and medical school. Students are guaranteed an interview with schools on the program’s linkage agreement list, provided they meet the professional school guidelines and have a certain GPA. The University of Vermont offers a scholarship to the first 25 admitted and enrolled students who are beginning the program in the summer term. Additionally, through the generous support of the Hillman Foundation, a scholarship is available for a student enrolled in the program.

Washington Master of Arts in Medical Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School | Norfolk, VA Website: www.heritage.edu/mamsprogram Program Type: Strengthen application Description: The program introduces students to a broad range of topics in the medical sciences while strengthening their academic credentials for admission to medical and other professional schools. Since the program’s inception, more than 80% of program graduates have gained admission into a professional school. Graduates have entered a wide range of professional programs including medicine, PA, dentistry, podiatry and others. Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Professional Health Studies Certificate Program Seattle University | Seattle, WA Website: www.seattleu.edu/scieng/advising/pre-health/post-baccalaureate-pre-professional-health-studies-certificate-program/ Program Type: Career changer Description: The program is designed for qualified students who have finished their undergraduate degrees, but lack most or all of the core pre-health science courses (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, or Math). The program is not appropriate for those who have completed the basic pre-health courses and wish to enroll only in advanced coursework.

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P/ LAST WORDS

What I Wish I Knew When Applying to Medical School

As an undergraduate student who joined the pre-med community a little later into my career, a post-baccalaureate program gave me the experience and edge I need to apply to medical school and get accepted. Here are a few things I wish

I knew going into my postbac program to make the most of the experience.

This is a Major Networking Opportunity Perspective is everything, and going into a postbac program knowing that there’s a possibility of your mentors one day becoming your future colleagues will add a level of consideration to your performance that you may not have contributed otherwise. Although it’s definitely not a guarantee by any means, putting your best foot forward and making a good impression not only on your mentors and educators but also your classmates or labmates can pay off immensely. Arriving to class or the research lab each day ready to work hard, show a genuine curiosity for 42 | PREMEDLIFE.COM | SPRING 2021

the material, and be a team player will show others that you’re serious about your future as a medical professional and that you’re easy to work with as well. Even if you might not envision yourself ending up in the exact field or community as your postbac program, you never know who your mentors can reach out to on your behalf to provide you with amazing opportunities you wouldn’t be able to access otherwise. This is also a great opportunity to ask for letters of recommendation from mentors that have experience working with you to add a major boost to your medical school application. This is a Great Chance to Round Out Your Medical School Application Pursuing a postbac experience is also an opportune time to tailor your medical school application and fill in any gaps you may have with various extracurricular opportunities. Some programs may provide access to pre-medicine advisors to help guide you in how to expand on your experience. Need shadowing hours? Some of your mentors might be practicing physicians willing to show you the ropes or there might be local providers willing to have students shadow them as well. Who knows, maybe you’ll even discover a specialty that you love and hadn’t considered before. Want to volunteer? Perhaps there is a hospital affiliated with your postbac program that you could volunteer at or even a local free clinic accepting volunteers. Depending on your specific postbac program, some of these opportunities might be built-in to the curriculum or exclusively available for postbac students. To read the full article, visit www.premedlife.com.