What exactly is the PLME Program?

Hey guys! I have recently come across the PLME program and I want to know a bit more about it. Can anyone give an overview of what the program offers, and what are the admission requirements?

Hey! The PLME program, or the Program in Liberal Medical Education, is an 8-year combined bachelor's and medical degree program offered by Brown University. Its purpose is to blend a liberal arts education and a comprehensive medical curriculum, allowing students more flexibility to explore their academic interests outside of medicine. Upon completion, students receive both a Bachelor's degree and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

One of the key features of the PLME program is its undergraduate curriculum flexibility. Students can choose any major, not just in the sciences, while also completing pre-med requirements. Furthermore, PLME students are not required to take the MCAT for entry into Brown's Warren Alpert Medical School, which is a major advantage since traditional medical school applicants spend considerable time preparing for this exam.

Admission to PLME is highly competitive. There's no separate application fee; however, applicants must fill out the PLME supplement on the Common Application, in addition to the regular Brown University application. Some requirements for consideration include a strong high school academic record, a history of involvement in extracurricular activities, and demonstration of a genuine passion for both medicine and liberal arts education. As for standardized tests, Brown is currently test-optional for 2023-2024, but will be reinstating test scores in the future, so keep that in mind.

PLME also considers demonstrated interest in medicine and healthcare, so having extracurriculars, internships, or volunteer experiences in the field can be beneficial. Additionally, the PLME supplement includes two essay prompts specific to the program that give applicants a chance to explain their interest in the combined degree program and how they intend to take advantage of its unique offerings.

In summary, PLME is highly respected and offers a great opportunity for students who want to combine a liberal arts education with a medical degree, giving them a more flexible and well-rounded undergraduate experience. With its highly competitive admission process, make sure to present a strong application and demonstrate your passion for both medicine and liberal arts. Good luck!