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What are the pros and cons of a bs/md program?

I'm a senior and I have been thinking about working in the medical field for a land time. I heard about the bs/md program and I though it was pretty cool, but I'm not sure #college #medicine #surgeons #boston #bsmeprograms

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Linda’s Answer

Hi Qiqi - Very impressive that you are considering a BS/MD program.


It is interesting that you ask for the Pros and Cons since when people talk about these programs they speak only of the Pros.

I have a daughter who is in her last undergrad year of a BS/MD program (Med School next year). She has loved her program, so I would suggest you apply. They can be very beneficial for many reasons.


Pros:

1. Guaranteed acceptance into Medical School - Most medical school have a very low acceptance rate.

2. Many Programs do not require you to take the MCAT

3. Because you are already accepted to Med School, you can spend your undergrad years being involved in activities you enjoy, not just what may look good on a med school application

4. Students in these programs become very close during their undergrad years since the programs are so small

5. Undergrad becomes a very collaborative group instead of being competitive

6. Older students in these programs generally give advice to the students coming behind them

7. In general you have special programs available to you, such as research opportunities, early registration for classes, a special advisor, etc.

8. In certain schools you may have special housing available to you


Cons:

1. Choose carefully because you generally are not able to apply to any other Med Schools

2. Usually (though some schools may be different) you must take a certain prescribed course load

3. You must keep a certain GPA or you lose your acceptance (Sometimes there are specific GPAs needed for general courses and a higher GPA for science courses)

4. You may have to perform certain required activities such as summer or international service projects, or research

5. You are generally a biology major. So, if you decide not to go to Med School (you change your mind about being a doctor), you graduate with a biology degree. (This could be a pro or a con depending on what you want to do)


In my opinion, if you are certain you want to be a doctor, these programs are a great way to go.

Linda recommends the following next steps:

Speak with your high school advisor about what programs are available. More and more are becoming available.
Make sure you understand what the application deadlines are. Applications are generally due in early October.
For each school you apply to, make sure you understand what they are looking for. Some programs have a specific focus - research, leadership, service, etc. Make sure your essays highlight that focus.
Go visit both the undergrad school and the associated medical school.
Good Luck! I wish you the best!
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