Owing to the broad nature of students that apply for post-baccalaureate programs, there are significant variations in post-baccalaureate program options.
+ Enhancement Programs
- These programs are generally for students who need to enhance their weak academic record or complete scientific coursework that they did not complete as undergraduates. There are 3 types of enhancement programs:
- Formal, structured programs with rigorous admissions policies. Completing this type of program greatly increases your chances of getting into medical school.
- Formal programs that are less structured and less selective, and their success rate is not as high.
- Extremely "loose" programs that often look more like continuing education classes or classes offered to "special students" that rarely offer pre-med advising.
+ "Special Master's" Programs
These programs target students who intend to pursue medicine, rather than academics. Outstanding work in these programs can be very appealing to the admissions committee and may improve your success in medical school. See UC Davis’ list of Special Master’s Programs.
+ Special Programs for
Minority/Disadvantaged Students
Some schools offer post-bac programs specifically for minority and economically disadvantaged students. For example, Southern Illinois University offers a post-bac program for disadvantaged students.
+ Post-Baccalaureate Programs for Dentistry
University of California-San Francisco
Southern Illinois University
+ Post-Baccalaureate Research Opportunities
For a more comprehensive list of post-baccalaureate programs, see Syracuse University’s list or the AAMC’s list.
