Doctorate of Medicine (MD) Program Search:

• Diversity:

  • Although numerous MD programs will emphasize diversity and inclusion, it is important to understand what that means. During your search, don’t be afraid to ask “what does diversity look like within this program?”, “what efforts has this program made in the last 3 years to show your commitment to a diversified student body and administration?”, “what resources are in place to maintain a diverse academic environment, both inside and outside of the classroom (implicit bias training, workshops/ lectures on diversity-related topics, community outreach, clinical rotations, inter- and intra-disciplinary collaborations, etc.)?”. Students often forget that while programs are assessing if you are a good fit for them, it is equally as important for YOU to assess whether that program is a good fit for you. Medical School is rigorous, so make sure that you are selecting a program that is committed to your success, supports you, and provides you with the resources and tools you need.

• Cost:

  • Important factors to consider in regards to cost include expected tuition increase based on the yearly budget, scholarship opportunities, as well as living expenses. Some institutions offer merit scholarships as well as need-based scholarships that will cover some portion of tuition—you typically will not have to do anything additional to apply/qualify for this scholarship, your initial application will be sufficient. Furthermore, check out the Financial Aid & Scholarships section below.

• Class Dynamics:

  • If you have not, be sure to purchase access to the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR). MSAR provides data that is compiled from AMCAS applications, MCAT exams, and medical schools; thus, it is self-reported data. However, this data is useful in accounting for previously accepted AND matriculating classes cohort dynamics, number of men vs. women, number of African American students, number of non-traditional students, the average age of cohorts, and information on medical, volunteer, and/or research experience of applicants.

    • If you purchase an MSAR subscription, it is good for several other reasons beyond class dynamics. MSAR includes detailed profiles for each MD-granting medical school in the U.S. and Canada. Gives the most up-to-date information on dual degree opportunities, tuition and financial aid information, waitlist data, required and recommended prerequisite coursework, important application dates, and more. This is a great resource to utilize before and after taking the MCAT to assess whether the schools you wish to apply are realistic – but judge using the “accepted students” feature.

• Other Factors:

  • It is also important to explore the structure of the curriculum, board pass rate, and dual-degree opportunities. In addition to the program overview, the program’s website may also have a student ambassador-run blog or FAQs addressing various topics for prospective students. Questions to consider in evaluating program curriculum:

    • Does the curriculum seem innovative and/or progressive? When was the last time there was a change in curriculum? Is there a mandatory research component built into the curriculum?

    • Do you prefer traditional lectures, online learning, problem-based learning, case studies, or another method? Does this curriculum offer a learning style that works for you?

    • Will you receive letter grades or Honors/P/F?

    • When will you have your first patient interactions as a medical student? (Some schools offer as early as the first or second week of learning. Some schools wait until clinical rotations.)

    • What is the 5-year pass rate for USMLE Step 1 and Step 2?

    • Does this medical school offer various dual-degree opportunities?

      • If this is something you are interested in, for MD/Ph.D. programs you must apply simultaneously. For most other dual-degree opportunities you are allowed to apply/express interest prior to matriculation.

      • There are also dual-degree BS/MD programs. Click here for more information. 

    • Do you prefer to work/study independently or to work with classmates on projects? (Programs aim to distribute learning evenly among both methods, but ultimately utilize one more than the other at various stages in the curriculum.)