To apply to a Master's program or not?

[DrCocoLoco]

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Hello! I just need some advice specific to my situation. I'm a 28yr old cellular and molecular biology major with a 3.65 cgpa, and 3.72 sgpa. I spent the last few years working in a doctor's office and doing some volunteer work/ research internships. I have been looking to apply to some master's programs because 1) it's been a while (7 years) since I've taken classes and 2) I thought it would be great to have a master's degree to fall back on if the application cycle for medical school doesn't pan out the way I hope. My question is, should I do a master's program, or just take some classes to show that I can keep up with the coursework since I've been out of school for a while? I'm willing to take the risk financially if it'll be beneficial, but if it's not I would like to know what's the best route for me to take? Thanks

 

[Blueprint Med School]

Masters programs that are helpful for admissions to MD programs (also known as SMPs) are typically considered 'fake' degrees, for lack of a better word. Regular masters programs are usually not overly helpful in making your app more competitive. I'd recommend just taking some classes outside of a formal program.

 

[Goro]

Masters programs that are helpful for admissions to MD programs (also known as SMPs) are typically considered 'fake' degrees, for lack of a better word. Regular masters programs are usually not overly helpful in making your app more competitive. I'd recommend just taking some classes outside of a formal program.

I agree.

 

[MyOdyssey]

There are certain medical schools that want candidates to show some more recent academic chops if they completed their undergraduate degrees five or more years ago. The linked discussion mentions some of them.

Five year expiration date on premed courses

Hello all I received my BS in May 2019 and plan to start a 2 year science research fellowship in Feb 2022. That would mean I couldn't begin medical school until June/July/August 2024, which is just outside five years from my graduation date. I majored in a science, received an overall GPA of...

forums.studentdoctor.net

 

[DrCocoLoco]

Thank you all for the responses so far. There's at least one program that I was applying as a non-degree student- the other programs also offer non-degree classes, so I'll apply to those as well.