University of Cincinnati BS/MD Program Info

Hi guys! I'm thinking about applying to the University of Cincinnati BS/MD program, but I'm not sure about the details. Can anyone share any insights on how this program works and its curriculum?

Hi there! The University of Cincinnati BS/MD program is an eight-year combined program, where you'll spend four years completing an undergraduate degree followed by four years in medical school at the UC College of Medicine. This program is designed for highly motivated students who are committed to a career in medicine. Instead of going through the traditional process of applying to medical school separately, you're directly admitted to both programs right out of high school.

The curriculum for the undergraduate portion is largely determined by your chosen major, but there are certain courses that all BS/MD students must take, such as the prerequisites for medical school (biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and other science courses). You may choose any major, although many students opt for a science major, like Biology or Chemistry, given the overlap in coursework. Additionally, you'll need to maintain a certain GPA and get involved in medical-related extracurriculars or research in order to keep your offer of acceptance at the medical school.

The biggest benefit of this program is that you're granted a seat at the UC College of Medicine upon successful completion of the undergraduate portion. It's important to note that you're still required to take the MCAT, but depending on the program, the score requirement might be lower compared to traditional medical school admissions.

The medical school portion of the program is quite rigorous, like any medical school, with the first two years consisting largely of classroom-based learning and the latter two focused on clinical rotations in various medical specialties - gaining hands-on experience allows you to identify which subfield of medicine is right for you, before going on to complete a residency and potentially a fellowship in that field.

To be a competitive candidate for the BS/MD program at the University of Cincinnati, you'll need to demonstrate your commitment to medicine through both strong academic achievements and involvement in relevant extracurricular activities. Keep in mind that these programs are typically highly selective, so you'll want to make sure your application showcases your passion for and commitment to the field of medicine.

Finally, if you want further guidance about whether this program is right for you, CollegeVine's blog has a breakdown of some of the pros and cons of BS/MD programs in general: https://blog.collegevine.com/pros-and-cons-of-a-bsmd-program. Good luck with your medical journey!