Are the BA/MD programs colleges offer worth it?Answered
I've made a similar post months prior; however, after having a better understanding of these programs, I have more questions. For starters, I'm not a good standardized test taker. I've never even reached a 1200 or above on the SAT. Although I've found the ACT easier, I still haven't managed to reach a 30, even though I've taken this exam only once. I've prepared for these exams before, but not to the extent I would've liked. I don't study for the grammar or writing sections because I usually score high in those areas; however, I read slow which results in me not finishing those sections in time. I've always had up to two passages unread. As far as the science section on the ACT, that isn't difficult for me either. I struggled more with the math section not only because of timing but also because of some of the math concepts, mainly geometry, I've forgotten. So, I studied for the math portion more, but as I stated before, I don't study as much as I would've liked. Especially this year, I don't have any time on my hands. I'm heavily involved in my school, a part of several academic honor societies, and in four AP courses (Calc, Chem, Gov & Pol, and Lit). I barely have time to sleep, let alone prepare for these exams. Although many schools are test optional, some programs that the schools I'm applying to offer require you to submit your SAT or ACT scores. The required scores are beyond what I could score (1470+). These programs are BA/MD programs that shorten your time receiving your Doctor of Medicine. I'm intrigued by these programs by their convenience and boost in the medical field. On the other hand, I'm frustrated that after many test retakes, I still cannot manage a required score. I'm also disappointed with myself because I feel that I'm falling behind in the college application journey, despite it being only October. I'm not sure what to do. I know what I want to pursue and the potential schools I want to attend. Regardless, what do you think? Are these BA/MD programs really worth it in the long run, especially since that's not the only way of becoming a physician?
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Hi @Srfp_23
I think you should take a step back from this and take some deep breaths and clear your mind.
Statistically, it's safe to say that the average college student changes their undergraduate major 3 times before graduating. So how do you know you are qualified to make a commitment to a 7-year BS/MD program as a high school student?
The BS/MD program is not a widely popular way to become an MD in America because most top Medical schools fully expect their applicants to have immersed themselves in a great liberal arts education or a STEM degree prior to applying. In addition, it's not uncommon for applicants to have completed some research experience or gained work experience prior to applying. The average age of Harvard incoming Med Students is 25 and the range of admits is between 21 and 35. All the best MD schools in America do not offer BS/MD programs. Some very good ones do but not the Top 10.
Like anything in life, there are always 2-3% of students who know exactly what they want and have been planning to be a doctor since being a little kid. They have been studying anatomy, volunteering at hospitals, and perhaps even performing supervised surgeries already because their dad is a specialist. If you come from a family of physicians and have amazing credentials and test scores, these BS/MD programs are great because you have your family and community behind you to support you through this accelerated path. Alternatively, these sorts of kids apply directly to Oxford or Cambridge because you can start off with a Medical degree straight from HS in the UK. For these advanced students, it matters less the clout or prestige of the Medical school because they already know what their career trajectory is going to be. They know where they are going to do their residency most likely before they even apply.
For 97-98% of high school students, it makes more sense to take a traditional path of getting your undergraduate degree first before medical school. Doing well in your core pre-med classes is important for your future course rigor as well as MCAT test scores. So you want to be able to Ace Organic Chemistry and get close to a 520 on the MCAT junior year of college prior to applying.
The other factor is financial, you don't want to commit to a $500,000 BS/MD education unless you are 100% sure you are going to gut it out and complete it. If you decide after 4 semesters, it's too hard you'll be in a pickle because some of the Medical school coursework won't be transferrable back to your undergrad and then you are going to have to spend 5 years getting your undergrad degree from a less prestigious university. Why? because it's nearly impossible to transfer into say, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, etc with a half-baked BS/MD degree. The transfer rates are 0.80-1.6% so you are better off staying put where you are.
If you are a senior right now, I really would question your motivation for trying to apply to such programs. Having less than1200 SAT scores (and less than 30 ACT scores), you are highly unqualified to make the cut even at the least competitive of these schools.
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I appreciate your perspective on my question; I will definitely take it into consideration. I'm still awaiting my ACT score to be sent out. From there, I think my thoughts for the programs would be clearer. Regardless, I'm still certain of my career path. Aside from my standardized test scores, my academic background is decent; top five in the grade. Luckily, many schools have become test optional, so there are other areas they would consider. Thank you again.