4-year medical school programs?

Hi there, I'm an aspiring doctor and I've heard that some schools offer accelerated 4-year medical programs. Can anyone provide any info or examples of colleges with these programs? Would love to learn more about them!

Hi! Accelerated 4-year medical programs, sometimes referred to as BS/MD or BA/MD programs, are designed for high-achieving students who are committed to pursuing a medical career. These programs combine undergraduate and medical education into a comprehensive, streamlined curriculum, allowing you to earn both a bachelor's degree and a medical degree in a shorter time frame than the traditional 8-year route (4 years of undergraduate studies + 4 years of medical school).

Here are a few examples of universities offering combined BS/MD or BA/MD programs:

1. Brown University - The Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME)

2. Northwestern University - Honors Program in Medical Education (HPME)

3. Boston University - Seven-Year Liberal Arts/Medical Education Program

4. University of Miami - Honors Program in Medicine

5. Rutgers University (partnered with RWJ Barnabas Health) - Seven-Year BA/MD or BS/MD program

6. University at Buffalo - Jacobs School of Medicine (8-year BA/MD, but offers early assurance)

Keep in mind, admission to these programs is highly competitive, often requiring strong academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and demonstrated commitment to medicine. You'll need to research each program's distinct admission requirements and prerequisites. Additionally, keep in mind that some programs have slightly different structures in terms of coursework and timeline.

Another aspect to consider is the level of commitment to the medical field. These programs are typically designed for students who are certain about their desire to become doctors. If you're still exploring your options or want more time to decide on medicine, it might be better to pursue a traditional undergraduate path before applying to medical schools separately.

To get started, I recommend researching each of the programs listed above, visiting their websites, and familiarizing yourself with their admissions processes, course offerings, and unique features. Good luck on your journey to becoming a doctor!