Combined BS/MS in undergrad

[Bulldog2014]

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Hey all,

How would doing a combined BS/MS in undergrad help in applying to medical schools? It's in a medically relevant field of science, and if I did not pursue a medical degree, I would most likely pursue a PhD in this subject. I'm assuming medical schools would look upon this favorably, but to what degree? Also, is it worth sacrificing slightly lower grades?

Thanks in advance.

 

[TexasPhysician]

Never worth sacrificing grades. It would be a plus however.

 

[Catalystik]

If your undergrad GPA is on the lower side, you'd be better off taking additional undergrad classes to boost it up. Having a hard-science masters, even with terrific grades, only rarely helps compensate for a low uGPA.

 

[Dbate]

Judging from your name, I am guessing you are a Yalie (Like me 🙂), so I will give you my honest advice.

The MS, while being a nice addition to differentiate you from other applicants, is not necessary to be admitted to medical school. It is not worth sacrificing any bit of your GPA and the process is so laborious that you end up missing out on a lot of other educational opportunities. A normal BS+Half the research you would be required to do for the MS would be fine and offer you far more flexibility in terms of your educational interests.

 

[blackarrowmoose]

im actually in the same position as you, i have the option of pursuing a MA along with my BA in 2 extra semesters. However from what ive learned it doesn't really help that much unless you already have a great uGrad GPA

 

[ClandestineStar]

im actually in the same position as you, i have the option of pursuing a MA along with my BA in 2 extra semesters. However from what ive learned it doesn't really help that much unless you already have a great uGrad GPA

👍