What are the best BS/MD programs in the US and what should I know when applying?
I'm a rising senior interested in medicine, and I've been considering applying to combined BS/MD programs. I'm trying to figure out which schools have the top reputations for BS/MD and what factors I should weigh besides just ranking. Are there some programs that are known for being super supportive or have better med school placement?
I have a few extracurriculars in healthcare and some shadowing, plus my grades are pretty good, but I know these programs are super competitive. Does it matter more which undergrad college is part of the program, or should I focus mainly on the med school connected to it?
Basically looking for advice from current students or others who know a lot about these programs, so I can start making a realistic college list.
I have a few extracurriculars in healthcare and some shadowing, plus my grades are pretty good, but I know these programs are super competitive. Does it matter more which undergrad college is part of the program, or should I focus mainly on the med school connected to it?
Basically looking for advice from current students or others who know a lot about these programs, so I can start making a realistic college list.
6 days ago
•
11 views
Sara Larner
• 6 days ago
Advisor
BS/MD programs in the US are some of the most competitive college paths, but also among the most rewarding for future doctors who want to secure their spot in med school early. Some of the best-known and most reputable BS/MD programs include Brown University’s Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME), Case Western’s Pre-Professional Scholars Program, and the programs at University of Rochester, University of Miami (Medical Scholars), Boston University, and St. Louis University.
When evaluating BS/MD programs, don’t just look at rankings. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Structure and Flexibility: Some programs, like Brown’s PLME, give students a lot of flexibility to explore non-STEM interests. Others might have stricter requirements (like mandatory GPAs or MCAT scores to progress to med school). Make sure you know if you’ll need to take the MCAT and what GPA you need to maintain.
2. Support and Resources: Look for programs that offer strong advising, mentoring, and research opportunities. For example, the Rice/Baylor program is known for its supportive environment and excellent access to the Texas Medical Center.
3. Clinical Experience: Some universities are integrated with large medical centers, giving you hands-on experience earlier. Case Western partners with the Cleveland Clinic and other top hospitals.
4. Attrition Rate: Find out how many students actually progress from the BS to the MD portion. Some programs are very strict and ‘weed out’ a percentage. Others, like PLME, typically advance most students barring academic or conduct issues.
As for your question about the relative importance of the undergrad versus the med school: it depends on your preferences. If you care about a broad undergrad experience or want to double major or do substantial non-science coursework, some programs will fit you better. But the prestige and resources of the med school do matter for residency placement and research opportunities.
For example, if you’re deciding between a lesser-known undergrad + top-tier med school, versus a strong undergrad + mid-tier med school, ask yourself if you care more about the med school network and residency options or the undergrad experience.
Application-wise, you’ll want to show real, long-term commitment to medicine. Standout BS/MD applicants often have more than ‘a few’ healthcare ECs—they might have deep involvement in research, patient care, advocacy, or unique projects (e.g., founding a health equity club). Personal character, maturity, and a clear understanding of why you want to be a doctor are critical to convey in essays and interviews.
Finally, apply broadly—most BS/MD programs accept fewer than 5% of applicants. Have strong backup plans (like regular premed tracks at good colleges) and keep in mind fit and happiness at both the undergrad and medical school.
If you want an example: Brown’s PLME lets you major in nearly anything while guaranteeing a spot at a top med school, but it’s less focused on traditional premed structure. Some programs are more structured, and require maintaining certain grades and MCAT scores. Your comfort with this type of environment is a key consideration.
Start reaching out to current students if possible, and don’t hesitate to email program coordinators—they’re usually responsive and happy to give advice!
When evaluating BS/MD programs, don’t just look at rankings. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Structure and Flexibility: Some programs, like Brown’s PLME, give students a lot of flexibility to explore non-STEM interests. Others might have stricter requirements (like mandatory GPAs or MCAT scores to progress to med school). Make sure you know if you’ll need to take the MCAT and what GPA you need to maintain.
2. Support and Resources: Look for programs that offer strong advising, mentoring, and research opportunities. For example, the Rice/Baylor program is known for its supportive environment and excellent access to the Texas Medical Center.
3. Clinical Experience: Some universities are integrated with large medical centers, giving you hands-on experience earlier. Case Western partners with the Cleveland Clinic and other top hospitals.
4. Attrition Rate: Find out how many students actually progress from the BS to the MD portion. Some programs are very strict and ‘weed out’ a percentage. Others, like PLME, typically advance most students barring academic or conduct issues.
As for your question about the relative importance of the undergrad versus the med school: it depends on your preferences. If you care about a broad undergrad experience or want to double major or do substantial non-science coursework, some programs will fit you better. But the prestige and resources of the med school do matter for residency placement and research opportunities.
For example, if you’re deciding between a lesser-known undergrad + top-tier med school, versus a strong undergrad + mid-tier med school, ask yourself if you care more about the med school network and residency options or the undergrad experience.
Application-wise, you’ll want to show real, long-term commitment to medicine. Standout BS/MD applicants often have more than ‘a few’ healthcare ECs—they might have deep involvement in research, patient care, advocacy, or unique projects (e.g., founding a health equity club). Personal character, maturity, and a clear understanding of why you want to be a doctor are critical to convey in essays and interviews.
Finally, apply broadly—most BS/MD programs accept fewer than 5% of applicants. Have strong backup plans (like regular premed tracks at good colleges) and keep in mind fit and happiness at both the undergrad and medical school.
If you want an example: Brown’s PLME lets you major in nearly anything while guaranteeing a spot at a top med school, but it’s less focused on traditional premed structure. Some programs are more structured, and require maintaining certain grades and MCAT scores. Your comfort with this type of environment is a key consideration.
Start reaching out to current students if possible, and don’t hesitate to email program coordinators—they’re usually responsive and happy to give advice!
Sara Larner
Los Angeles, CA
Masters from USC; BA from Barnard College of Columbia University
Experience
8 years
Rating
4.9 (84 reviews)