Biomedical science as an undergrad degree

[Protools]

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Basically im thinking of switching my degree from biological chemistry into biomedical science. My first priority is to get into medical school but if that doesnt work out i plan on going into research. Problem is that if i do research, i'd perfer to do it in a pure science degree (e.g. chem, bio, biochem, biophys etc.) instead of an applied science (biomedical science for example).

Would i still be able to do my masters/phd with a bsc in something like biomedical science? i only ask because my chemistry professor did he undergrad in geology and ended up doing her phd in biochemistry (but geology seems like a much tougher degree compared to biomedical science)

also, if i do switch, would you recommend that i minor in something like biology in chemistry?

 

[OneDay81]

What are the differences in the coursework? I assume both majors involve a lot of physiology. I don't see any reason to switch unless you can't meet med school reqs with your current major or there is something about the biomed major that really appeals to you.

Also, are you sure you posted this is the forum you intended?

 

[Stories]

If "biomedical science" is a biology degree with all your core cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry course and lab work, then yes. If it involves other areas which are less biology, then it might be more difficult. Also, getting a PhD in biology is pretty darn difficult, about as rough as getting into medical school, so it's not something you'll do if something else "doesn't work out". You can certainly focus on both, but be sure to start getting undergrad research experience NOW. Hit the lab NOW. Start working on a project you can use as a senior thesis. These experiences are critical to get into a PhD program (and medical schools also love seeing research on applicants' CVs).

Also, the opportunities in "applied science" are much greater than the "pure science" fields. Take a look at the top tier journals (Nature, Science, NEJM) and see the number of biomedical-related papers compared to "pure science" papers. Fact is, NIH is the biggest granter of research funds in the world. And NIH is a biomedical institution. Go where the research money is.