Thoughts on 6-year BA/MD programs?

Hi guys, I am seriously considering getting a medical degree in the future. So, I recently learned about these 6-year BA/MD programs that allow you to complete both undergrad and med school in 6 years. Does anyone have any experience or thoughts about these programs? Are they worth it in comparison to the traditional path?

Hi there! It's great that you're considering a medical degree. Six-year BA/MD programs are offer a faster route to becoming a doctor compared to the traditional path. However, faster isn't always better when it comes to your education, so there are both pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

1. Guaranteed admission to medical school: Upon acceptance to the program, you secure your medical school spot, eliminating the stress of applying separately during your undergraduate years.

2. Time-saving: You can complete your undergraduate and medical degrees in 6 years instead of the usual 8, which helps you get going on your actual career earlier, and start earning an income.

Cons:

1. Limited flexibility: These programs can be highly structured and may have strict requirements, giving you less flexibility in exploring other academic interests or taking part in extracurricular activities.

2. Intensity: The curriculum is often accelerated, which could be challenging for some students.

3. Less time for personal growth: You'll be entering a demanding career early, and some argue that the traditional path allows more time for personal growth and maturity.

While 6-year BA/MD programs can be a good fit for some students who are certain about their career in medicine and can handle the intensity of an accelerated program, it may not be ideal for everyone. Before making your decision, consider your personal goals, readiness for a medical career right after high school, and willingness to commit to a rigorous program. You can also find a more comprehensive list of pros and cons for you to consider on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/pros-and-cons-of-a-bsmd-program.

It's also a good idea to research specific programs, speak to current students or alumni, and explore other pre-med paths before making your decision. Keep in mind that 6-year programs are still relatively uncommon as well - 7 is more common. You can find a list of the 6-year options on CollegeVine's blog: https://blog.collegevine.com/a-complete-list-of-all-bs-md-programs.

Best of luck with deciding whether this accelerated track is right for you!