Boston University: MA in Medical Science

Boston University Medical School offers the Master of Arts in Medical Science, a program which dates to 1986 and is well regarded in the medical community. This medical science program is unique in that upto 24 of the 32 required courses can be taken with first year medical students, yet all participants do not necessarily go into medicine.

Since the founding of the MA program at Boston University 661 students have completed the program and 552 were admitted to a MD program at 74 different medical schools. Essentially, the program is great for going into medicine or pursuing another type of advanced degree. And you can never beat the location in Boston's South End.

I have spent many summers in Boston and have friends who are at Boston University School of Medicine, enrolled in the Master of Public Health, and the MA in Medical Science program. Everyone mentions they enjoy all aspects of their respective programs so coming here gets my vote of confidence.

Program Focus

It is hard to pinpoint the ideal student for the Medical Science degree. I think if you are applying to medical school this is a great opportunity to showcase your ability to handle advanced coursework and how competitive of an applicant you will. If you have not taken the courses required of medical school I urge you to look elsewhere.

Lastly, this program is not just for those planning on going to medical school, it will open a lot of different doors such as: PhD, MD, DMD, or even a MBA (health care management).

Structure

Due to the nature of the program there is no uniform curriculum in place. There are certain course requirements which must be taken to receive the MA in Medical Sciences a degree awarded by Boston University School of Medicine. Also, you will be required to complete an original thesis. Typically, the thesis component will be completed during the summer sessions.

In-order to complete the program in 12 months you will need to be a full-time student (12-16 credits) in the fall and spring semesters and at least 2 credits in both summer sessions. Remember you need 32 credits at the graduate level to earn your degree. Required courses include:

• Biochemistry, 6 cr, 1st sem
• Physiology, 6 cr, 2nd sem
• Human Physiology A, 4 cr, 1st sem
• Human Physiology B, 4 cr, 2nd sem
• Elementary Biostatics, 2 cr, 1st & 2nd sem
or
• Elementary Biostatics with Computer, 4 cr, 1st sem

It is also possible to direct your thesis and elective courses so as to have a concentration in:

• Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine
• Clinical Investigation
• Medical Nutrition Services

Eligibility

You must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university and have taken courses in: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biology and Physics. There is no GPA requirement, although a majority of students have a cumulative and science GPA of 3.0 or better. You will need to submit an MCAT score or GRE. It is preferential to score 25 or higher on the MCAT, but exceptions can be made because many students will retake the MCAT at the conclusion of the program.

Admissions

One very unique aspect of Boston University's MA in Medical Science program is that there is no admission deadline. But it is advisable to apply early to receive institutional aid and to increase your chances of admission. There is an application fee of $50.00 to apply using a paper application or $60.00 to apply online. You will also need to supply a personal statement and letters of recommendation.