A Complete List of All BS/MD Programs in 2024
Dreaming of becoming a doctor? A BS/MD program can accelerate your path to a rewarding medical career. These innovative programs allow highly motivated high school students like you to secure acceptance into medical school early, all while you complete your bachelor’s degree.
This blog is your ultimate resource to kickstart your medical school journey. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of all known BS/MD programs available in 2024, including prestigious universities and lesser-known gems. With this information at your fingertips, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect program to match your academic goals and aspirations.
What are BS/MD Programs?
BS/MD programs offer a streamlined path to becoming a doctor. Through a single application, you can secure admission to both an undergraduate program and a medical school, earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in a shorter time frame.
Typically, BS/MD programs take eight years (four years of undergraduate study followed by four years of medical school), seven years (three years of undergraduate study followed by four years of medical school), or, less frequently, six years (two years of undergraduate study followed by four years of medical school).
While some BS/MD programs allow students to complete both degrees at the same university, others involve partnerships between separate undergraduate institutions and medical schools.
Are BS/MD Programs Harder to Get Into?
BS/MD programs are highly competitive. As the most sought-after dual-degree option for aspiring doctors, these programs boast very small incoming classes and acceptance rates ranging from a narrow 1% to 10%.
BS/MD programs often involve interviews. If you make it past the initial screening, be prepared to articulate your passion for medicine during an interview, likely as a 17-year-old. Carefully consider if you feel comfortable confidently expressing your long-term goals at this stage.
However, don’t be discouraged if your high school record isn’t perfect. If you haven’t quite hit your academic stride yet, a traditional pre-med path might be a better fit. Four years of focused undergraduate coursework, coupled with relevant experience, can make you a much stronger candidate for medical school after college.
What are Accelerated BS/MD Programs?
Accelerated medical programs offer an alternative path to becoming a doctor by condensing the traditional eight-year journey. These programs typically range from six to seven years in length. The time savings come primarily from a shortened undergraduate portion.
To achieve this, some programs might combine previously separate foundational courses or utilize intensive summer sessions, allowing students to progress more quickly.
Similar to combined programs, acceptance into an accelerated program guarantees entry into the following medical school. Although students may be slightly younger than their traditional-track peers, this means you’ll transition directly from undergrad to medical school without the usual application process.
A Complete List of All BS/MD Programs in 2024
BS/MD Programs for High School Students
These combined BS/MD programs guarantee admission to medical school for qualifying high school students. However, you are required to maintain a specific GPA and complete certain coursework. While some programs may waive the MCAT, it’s not always guaranteed. See the table below for program lengths and estimated first-year tuition.
BS/MD Programs for Undergraduate Students
These schools also offer BS/MD programs. This means you can apply to both the undergraduate program and the medical school program at the same time, typically as a freshman or sophomore. If accepted, you’ll be guaranteed a spot in medical school after completing your undergraduate studies at that particular university.
Similar to the previous list, you can click on each school’s name to explore details about their specific BS/MD programs, including the admissions process.
Pros of BS/MD Programs
Guaranteed admission
For highly motivated students with a clear passion for medicine, a BS/MD program offers a significant advantage: you’ll be guaranteed a seat in the medical school affiliated with the program, assuming you meet the program’s academic requirements throughout your undergraduate studies.
This eliminates the uncertainty and stress associated with the traditional medical school application process. This allows you to focus on your academic performance and extracurricular activities, which will further strengthen your medical school candidacy.
Time efficiency
The traditional path to becoming a doctor typically involves four years of undergraduate studies followed by four years of medical school, totaling eight years. BS/MD programs often offer an accelerated timeline. It enables you to complete both your bachelor’s degree and MD in six or seven years.
This translates to saving valuable time and potentially reducing educational costs. By graduating from medical school a year earlier, you can begin your medical career sooner and start earning as a physician.
Early exposure to medicine
BS/MD programs often provide opportunities to gain valuable clinical experience during your undergraduate years. This might involve shadowing physicians, volunteering in healthcare settings, or participating in research projects.
Such experiences can solidify your interest in medicine, equip you with practical skills, and give you a head start when you enter medical school. Additionally, this early exposure can help you develop strong connections with medical professionals, which can be beneficial for future career opportunities.
Enhanced career prospects
Graduating from medical school a year earlier through a BS/MD program allows you to enter the workforce a year sooner compared to traditional applicants. This can give you a competitive edge in the job market, particularly for sought-after positions in research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or hospitals seeking attending physicians.
Financial aid opportunities
Due to their selective nature, many BS/MD programs recognize the financial challenges of pursuing a medical degree. They often offer scholarships or financial aid packages to attract high-achieving students. This financial support can significantly ease the burden of educational expenses and help you achieve your goals.
Cons of BS/MD Programs
Increased time commitment
BS/MD programs demand a significant time investment. These programs often require additional coursework each semester compared to a traditional undergraduate program. Balancing academics with extracurricular activities, work, and personal life can be challenging with this heavier course load.
Financial considerations
The combined cost of undergraduate and medical school within a BS/MD program can be substantial. While scholarships and financial aid are available, awards may be smaller compared to traditional programs.
The lack of flexibility in a BS/MD program might limit your ability to pursue scholarships or financial aid opportunities tied to specific majors.
Limited exposure
The pre-med coursework might restrict your ability to explore other academic interests or participate in programs like study abroad, which your peers might have the opportunity to pursue.
Additionally, some programs require staying at the same college for all eight years. It limits your exposure to new environments and potentially hinders your desire to experience a different city after undergrad.
From the Desk of Yocket
BS/MD programs offer a fast track to a career in medicine. They provide a clear path with guaranteed admission to medical school, mentorship, and early exposure to the medical field. This can be incredibly beneficial for highly motivated students who are certain they want to become doctors.
However, there are things to consider. The intense pressure to maintain top grades throughout undergrad can be stressful and limit the opportunity to explore other academic interests. The rigid structure might not suit everyone, and students who discover a different passion during undergrad may find themselves locked into a predetermined path. Additionally, the competition for these programs is fierce, and even strong students may not be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BS/MD program?
A BS/MD program is an accelerated pathway to an MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree. Students are admitted into the program straight out of high school and complete both a bachelor’s degree (BS) and an MD in 7–8 years, rather than the traditional 4 years for undergrad and 4 years for med school.
Are BS/MD programs harder to get into?
Yes, BS/MD programs are highly competitive with acceptance rates lower than in traditional medical schools. They require strong academic profiles, including high GPAs and test scores, along with a demonstrated commitment to a career in medicine.
Do I need to take the MCAT?
Some BS/MD programs require the MCAT but with a lower score requirement than traditional medical schools. Others waive the MCAT altogether.
When should I start applying to BS/MD programs?
Start researching BS/MD programs early in your junior year of high school. Applications are typically due in the fall of your senior year.
What are the requirements for BS/MD programs?
Requirements vary by program but generally include strong high school GPAs, top standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), a focus on science courses, and extracurricular activities showing a passion for medicine. Some programs may require essays or interviews.