Are there any good masters programs left for me?

[Garibaldo]

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I am currently taking some postbacc. classes at Harvard ext. and I'd like to attend a good one year masters program during my application lag year. I'm applying this summer, so I'll have one year free to do something. I haven't taken the GRE exam, but I have taken the MCAT. I'd prefer a respectable 1 year MPH program, but I'd also go with a 1 year masters of science program. Can anyone suggest a good 1 year program at a reasonable price? I know it's pretty late to apply, so I'd appreciate any help here.

 

[dynx]

All I can do for you is strongly discourage you from attending Georgetown's masters program in physiology. I am there now and I feel that there were many other places I could have gone for less money and received the same educational benefits. Good luck on your search.

 

[LoveDoc]

There are programs for URMs...oh but not for long if we leave it up to Bush.

😛

 

[Garibaldo]

Originally posted by dynx
All I can do for you is strongly discourage you from attending Georgetown's masters program in physiology. I am there now and I feel that there were many other places I could have gone for less money and received the same educational benefits. Good luck on your search.

dynx, thanks for addressing the Georgetown program. I've considered this program myself and I'd probably go there if the tuition wasn't so expensive. I think the main thing that attracted my attention was the ~20% chance of being accepted into Georgetown Medical School. Also, being able to take classes with 1st year med students and then being able to skip those same courses if you're accepted into the medical school was interesting. What other programs were you considering?

 

[dynx]

I looked into the masters program at Finch and some post-Bac programs but I was sold on the same points as you mentioned about georgetown. I admit the chance to take classes with first year meds is a great experience, but the material is not really the issue. The fact is, you are looking for something to put on your application to really strengthen it, the material you will hopefully get a chance to learn later in medical school. I have gotten a few interviews and none of the schools really seemed to have as good of an idea about the Georgetown program as the program directors led me to believe. So I would say, yes, the experience is good but as far as improving your odds of getting into medical schools (other than Georgetown) I don't think it helps more than any other program of its sort and many are a lot cheaper. Note that I am applying at the same year as I am in the program; so my experience may be completely different from somebody who has completed the program and applied for the following year with all there Georgetown grades on their transcript. In addition, when you get here, the directors actually tell you that being in the program will actually hurt your chances of getting into a UC school that year. This is because adcoms in UC schools will want you to re-apply the following year after all your grades come in. Sorry to ramble on so long but I wish I had known all this before I got here.
In conclusion. If you want to go to Georgetown and you are prepared beat 90% of their first year meds to get "A"s then by all means. Otherwise I feel a cheaper alternative is the one I would take...And the weather sucks here too.

 

[pathdr2b]

Originally posted by LoveDoc
There are programs for URMs...oh but not for long if we leave it up to Bush.

😛

 

[Iliketosleep]

I was in the same situation as you (post-bacc). I'm from Iowa, and because they just started offering summer public health classes, it will be possible for me to finish an MPH in one year (three semesters of classes plus a practicum). It's only 39 hours. My schedule is a little tight (this semester I'm taking 5 classes, plus an independent study, and I work 20 hours/week), but it's doable. Of course, you would have to live in Iowa, and this morning, there was a wind chill temp of 20 below. Good luck!

 

[nina512]

I have been debating about masters programs as well. Since you want to get your AMCAS out as early as possible, starting a masters during your lag year will be moot because your grades won't be in for adcoms to review. It's best to finish a one year program in May, send out the AMCAS in June/July, and work and volunteer, and do fun stuff (join a book club...chorus...take a pottery class...commit to an exercise regime) during your lag year.

I hope to use the masters to strengthen my app, so applying before I have the grades would be pointless. I just had to come to terms with not starting med school for another year.

But to answer the OPs question, there is a one year Masters at northwestern in physiology/neurobiology. It's expensive (26k/year). I have my sights on attending this program because there was not test requirment...but if you took the GRE or MCAT you have to submit your scores. However, if you don't have to strengthen your app and just want something to do, I'd work, get some research job at your top choice med school, and you might just get an LOR from your boss, who might happen to be an adcom member 🙂

I'll stop rambling now...😀
Nina

 

[mosaic]

nina-

have you been involved in research? i was also thinking about the northwestern program, but since i don't have much of a research background at all i don't know...

has anyone gone through this program?

 

[Garibaldo]

For those of us who can't afford to pay 26k/yr (unless we want to add it to a massive medical school loan), does anyone have any suggestions on how to pay that off? Are there any research programs at the school that will cover all or part of the tuition for research work in a Northwestern lab? Any ideas?

 

[nina512]

One way to get the MS for free is to work full time at that particular institution. One of the PIs where I work suggested that I continue working and take classes for free to complete a non-thesis masters. I think I would just have to pay the tax on the cost of the tuition to get credit for the classes.

I'm planning on working part-time in a lab at Northwestern, but I'm not sure if I'd be able to qualify for a complete tuition waiver. However, it might be possible to get some kind of discount. Check the school's HR webpage. THey usually go into detail about the level of benefits for FT/PT employees

Garibaldo, I hear you about the expensive tuition. My parents, who are just trying to get out of debt, are retiring in the next few years, and will not be able to contribute financially, so going in debt this much is a bit risky because I'll be totally on my own. But like you said, I'll just tack in one to med school debt. Besides I went to a state school for undergrad, so my school loans right now aren't that bad.

Another option...check your state schools. Most private schools will charge you out the wazooo for a MS (25k/yr) vs state schools where tuition was about 7k/yr.

Mosaic, I didn't have much research when I graduated, but I was able to get an entry level research assistant job at a major academic institution. I've been there for about 2 years, and I have to admit that it was good that I worked. It's been a win-win situation. I got some research exp, LORs, 2 abstracts, and a paper. I understand if you don't want to waste too much time before applying to med shcool, but spending time in the lab has strengthend my app. Now I must work on redeeming my crappy uGPA😀

Hope this helps!
Nina

 

[sharqq]

I think for the MS in applied physio at Finch they highly recommend to apply the same year u will be starting the program as you amy be able to get an interview with them after finish a quarter or two. But it is in the $25k+ range for the year.

I think the there is one at BU where you are also able to medical school classes, but it is also in the $25k range. The most affordable one i have seen is the MS in biomedical science at NYMC; dont know how those students fare in getting into med school

I am taking some post-bac class at a state school here and was debating to apply to a ms program. I also worked at a research institution with pediatrition (is that spelling right) for bout 2 yrs to decided if i wanted to puruse medicince...now gots to work on that gpa.

 

[birdie]

Nina, do you know if the Northwestern program has any sort of linkage to the med school?

 

[JZZZZZZZs]

Birdie,
As far as I know from looking at the Northwestern website for the 1 year master, it doesn't look like they have a linkage program with any medical school. In fact, the website is so ambiguous about it's intended population that I am not even sure if it's geared towards people who want to go into research or those aspiring for medicine. However, I did just send off an email to their program director and I'll let you know what she says. I'm also thinking about the program and since the deadline is coming up (3/31/03)...😀

 

[TexasGuy41]

Dartmouth has a 1 year MPH program that is brand new. It is not accredited yet but DON"T BELIEVE THE HYPE on this board about that. The reason is because they haven't graduated a class yet, since it just started. I've spoken with the program director and as soon as this years class graduates, they will be fully accredited. Further, if you know anything about Dartmouth, or any Ivy League school for that matter, accreditation is hardly ever an issue. Thats what I am doing next year. It is a small program comprised of physicians, health care professionals, and pre-meds. You don't need to take the GRE, an MCAT will suffice. I think they are still accepting apps for August but I'm not certain. I'd give them a call. Web addy is below. PM me with any questions.

http://www.dartmouth.edu/~cecs/educational_programs.html

 

[stressedout]

how much does the dartmouth program cost? i can't find the info anywhere...thanx

 

[TexasGuy41]

Both the Dartmouth MPH and MS programs cost $27,600. Its in the FAQ section of the website.

 

[bivwack]

Since you are taking classes at Harvard, I assume you are currently living in or around Boston. Check out Boston University School of Medicines MA in medical science program. You take many of the first year medical school basic science classes histology, biochemistry, pyhsiology, immunology, and endocrinology with first year med students plus you could take anatomy over the summer as an elective. All of which you don?t have to retake if matriculate at BU. It takes 4 semesters to complete, which can be done in 1 calendar year, and there is the option of doing research for your masers thesis. Great program not cheap, $24k/yr.

 

[lotanna]

I'm doing a masters in epidemiology, and envy anyone not having to do a thesis, its required for my program and is seriously a pain in my behind right now.

 

[sharqq]

About Boston U masters in medical sciences..are you currently in the program. It sounds similar to the Georgetown SMP and Finch/Chicago Med MS in applied physiology. I wanted to know how tough is the program and what are the admissons rate into med school...do u have good shot at BU Med...and also is there glide year or do they tell u to apply when u start the program.
Thanks for the help.

 

[XCanadianRagwee]

As for debt....I'm gonna tack it onto the med school debt I will be getting.

 

[Adcadet]

Originally posted by lotanna
I'm doing a masters in epidemiology, and envy anyone not having to do a thesis, its required for my program and is seriously a pain in my behind right now.

Same here. But then again, I do like the fact that my thesis will be on my CV, and potentially published. I don't understand how any respectable masters program can't require a thesis. Even MPHs generallyi require a thesis (in addition to a field experience). Are there any accredited schools of public health that award an MPH in less than 2 years? Are there any that don't require a thesis?

 

[lotanna]

Originally posted by Adcadet
Same here. But then again, I do like the fact that my thesis will be on my CV, and potentially published. I don't understand how any respectable masters program can't require a thesis. Even MPHs generallyi require a thesis (in addition to a field experience). Are there any accredited schools of public health that award an MPH in less than 2 years? Are there any that don't require a thesis?

yeah thats true, I've been down cause of lack of med schl application progress but my best friend was like on the bright side, ur 22, out of undergrad 2 yrs, working on ur masters thesis, so I guess I should be happy 😛
I'm hoping to get mine published, mine is on infant mortality so there are vast range of journals that I'm looking at.
I guess I just get pissed when i see people do basic masters in a yr, just str8 coursework, no thesis, and I've to go thru all this hassle. Well at least I can use this to get a job this yr if I have to reapply 🙂

 

[LoveDoc]

Originally posted by lotanna
yeah thats true, I've been down cause of lack of med schl application progress but my best friend was like on the bright side, ur 22, out of undergrad 2 yrs, working on ur masters thesis, so I guess I should be happy 😛
I'm hoping to get mine published, mine is on infant mortality so there are vast range of journals that I'm looking at.
I guess I just get pissed when i see people do basic masters in a yr, just str8 coursework, no thesis, and I've to go thru all this hassle. Well at least I can use this to get a job this yr if I have to reapply 🙂

lot,

i had no idea you are so talented. I didn't know you were working on your master's either. GO GIRL!!

 

[lotanna]

Originally posted by LoveDoc
lot,

i had no idea you are so talented. I didn't know you were working on your master's either. GO GIRL!!

Yeah right, my mCAT scores told me otherwise, thats why its looking like reapplying for me 🙁
How are ur apps coming? Any luck with Able? I wish u all the best with that, its a gr8 program!!
Why are u up late? I'm the night owl here 😛

 

[Ginza]

Originally posted by sharqq
About Boston U masters in medical sciences..are you currently in the program. It sounds similar to the Georgetown SMP and Finch/Chicago Med MS in applied physiology. I wanted to know how tough is the program and what are the admissons rate into med school...do u have good shot at BU Med...and also is there glide year or do they tell u to apply when u start the program.
Thanks for the help.

You can apply while you start the program, but you won't be able to include the program's grades with your application. Most people complete AMCAS the summer after the classes. The coursework is a challenge, but really good prep for med school. Oh, and a thesis is required. If you have any other questions you can PM me.

 

[Adcadet]

Originally posted by lotanna
yeah thats true, I've been down cause of lack of med schl application progress but my best friend was like on the bright side, ur 22, out of undergrad 2 yrs, working on ur masters thesis, so I guess I should be happy 😛
I'm hoping to get mine published, mine is on infant mortality so there are vast range of journals that I'm looking at.
I guess I just get pissed when i see people do basic masters in a yr, just str8 coursework, no thesis, and I've to go thru all this hassle. Well at least I can use this to get a job this yr if I have to reapply 🙂

you graduated from undergrad at age 20? Wow. I'm finishing my master's, and I just turned 24. I'm ancient.

 

[lotanna]

Originally posted by Adcadet
you graduated from undergrad at age 20? Wow. I'm finishing my master's, and I just turned 24. I'm ancient.

The way my undergrad gpa was, i should have stayed an extra yr, (5yrs), to bring it up 🙁
24? Ur far from ancient, actually below average age for med schl 1st yr students!! You are a youngin 😛

 

[birdie]

Originally posted by JZZZZZZZs
Birdie,
As far as I know from looking at the Northwestern website for the 1 year master, it doesn't look like they have a linkage program with any medical school. In fact, the website is so ambiguous about it's intended population that I am not even sure if it's geared towards people who want to go into research or those aspiring for medicine. However, I did just send off an email to their program director and I'll let you know what she says. I'm also thinking about the program and since the deadline is coming up (3/31/03)...😀

So did you find out? Have you heard anything else about this program?

 

[JZZZZZZZs]

Hey Birdie,
Thanks for reminding me. Below, I've included an excerpt from the email that the program assistant sent to me:

"The Master's program is an intensive one year program designed to allow students to conduct an independent research project in partnership with a professor, develop their understanding of neurobiology and physiology through academic studies and to defend a thesis based on the outcome of the research.

30% of the graduates apply to medical schools, while many others apply to Ph.D programs, or continue research in either academic or private institutions. So in other words, the program is suitable for individuals interested in research or in continuing their studies. Successful students are ones who have had prior research experience. "

The current tuition is $8,840 per quarter but they plan to raise it for 2003-2004. And the deadline, I mentioned earlier is 3/31/03.

It sounds like a more research oriented than health oriented program but I guess for those of you who are into heavy research, this would be a great opportunity. (Especially, if you plan to go into MD/PhD) Personally, although I have 1 year of research experience, this program seems a little too intense. What with taking classes, doing research, formulating a thesis and defending it all within a year. 😱

Hope this info. helps some of you out there.

 

[Garibaldo]

Originally posted by JZZZZZZZs
Hey Birdie,
Thanks for reminding me. Below, I've included an excerpt from the email that the program assistant sent to me:

"The Master's program is an intensive one year program designed to allow students to conduct an independent research project in partnership with a professor, develop their understanding of neurobiology and physiology through academic studies and to defend a thesis based on the outcome of the research.

30% of the graduates apply to medical schools, while many others apply to Ph.D programs, or continue research in either academic or private institutions. So in other words, the program is suitable for individuals interested in research or in continuing their studies. Successful students are ones who have had prior research experience. "

The current tuition is $8,840 per quarter but they plan to raise it for 2003-2004. And the deadline, I mentioned earlier is 3/31/03.

It sounds like a more research oriented than health oriented program but I guess for those of you who are into heavy research, this would be a great opportunity. (Especially, if you plan to go into MD/PhD) Personally, although I have 1 year of research experience, this program seems a little too intense. What with taking classes, doing research, formulating a thesis and defending it all within a year. 😱

Hope this info. helps some of you out there.

What kind of financial aid is there available for this program? Since you're working on a research project, how can they justify charging so much? Shouldn't they waive the tuition to some extent like many graduate programs?