Hey guys, I'm really interested in University of Pennsylvania's Vagelos Program in Life Sciences and Management (LSM). Could anyone tell me about their experiences or what exactly the program entails?
The Vagelos Program in Life Sciences and Management (LSM) is a very unique dual-degree program at the University of Pennsylvania that allows you to study both sciences and business. Students graduate with both a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Arts & Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School.
The program is usually completed in four years with about 50 courses, and it's designed to equip students for dynamic careers on the cutting-edge of life sciences, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. As per the academic structure, the program combines coursework in biology and chemistry from the School of Arts and Sciences with business disciplines at Wharton like finance and management. You've also got specific LSM seminars that delve into the legal, ethical, and economic dimensions of the biosciences industry.
In addition, LSM facilitates research opportunities, internships in relevant industries, and a capstone senior design project that integrates the scientific and management principles you've learned through the program.
Applying to the LSM program is quite competitive, given that approximately just 25 students are admitted each year. When you're applying, you should demonstrate that you're interested in both business and the life sciences - your previous coursework and extracurricular involvement can be key here. Finally, given the unique nature of this dual-degree program, interacting with the professors and current students would be extremely valuable to understand more about the specific dynamics of the curriculum, research, and internships. It will give you a more detailed view of what to expect.
In summary, LSM is an intensive and tightly-knit program designed for students who are passionate about the intersection of life sciences and business. It offers rigorous academics, immersive practical experiences, and a strong community.
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