Cornell's Post Bacc Program in Health Studies vs. BMS degree?

[FutureDoctor127]

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I did not get into med school for the 2011 application cycle, so I reapplied for the 2012 cycle. During my gap year, I was planning to go get a Master's Degree in Biomedical Sciences (BMS). I actually applied and was accepted to Cornell's Post-baccalaureate Program in Health Studies, but I can't seem to find any other information on the program besides the school website. Has anyone gone there or heard anything about the program? Is a Certificate in Health Studies worth much - or would it be better to just go the BMS route?

Any information would help. Thanks!

 

[whyisschoolhard]

This program is fairly new (started maybe about 3 years ago). They accept ~20 students a year. From what I've heard, students take it to amp up their GPA, that is if you're competitive enough to get decent scores that will improve your GPA.

 

[FutureDoctor127]

i heard the same thing too. i was just wondering if anyone has more detailed info on the program, or if anyone has actually been through the program?

it's ~40,000 for tuition for the year, and you only get a certificate...whereas, if you get a Master's in Biomedical Science at a state university, it's only ~10,000. i'm not sure which is more worth it & which one med schools think more highly of

 

[gl0baltrader]

First of all I don't know much about the Cornell program but it seems a bit expensive for taking extension classes, especially since they have not posted any success rate of their program. What is the success rate for the BMS program you are interested ?? A respectable program will post their success rate. For example: http://www.med.uc.edu/physiology/MS-2010.htm

Second, since you are re-applying for the 2012 cycle. Your updated GPA most likely would not be included when the adcom is making their decision to extend interview. Unless they have an agreement with a medical school to extend interview to the top x %.

I vote for the cheaper option.

 

[FutureDoctor127]

thanks so much! i ended up turning down Cornell's offer & am sticking with one of the state schools in FL. significantly cheaper and i actually get a degree out of it. thanks again 🙂

 

[yamaraja808]

thanks so much! i ended up turning down Cornell's offer & am sticking with one of the state schools in FL. significantly cheaper and i actually get a degree out of it. thanks again 🙂

Make sure to look for some research or teaching opportunities. This will help pay off your masters. I did this and will be graduating debt free.