You’ve got your degree, but is pursuing a Post-BACC or Master’s the right next step on your journey to med school?
Whether changing careers or looking to improve your academic standing, you might be asking how to best prepare for admission to medical school. What skills do you need to learn? Where is your energy best spent? There are many post-BACC Pre-Med options and Master’s in Medical Science (MSMS) degrees that work well for prospective doctors.
All designed to help students become stronger medical school applicants, different post-BACC pre-med programs serve distinct functions depending on what you plan to accomplish. Let’s look at the differences to help you choose the best option for your future.
What’s the difference?
When it comes down to it, the choice of post-BACC vs. Master’s in Medical Science will be a combination of your academic background, future goals, and what gaps you’re looking to fill.
What is a Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med Program?
A Post-BACC Pre-Med program is ideal if you need to complete prerequisite science courses, want to improve your undergraduate GPA, or are changing careers and don’t have a strong science foundation.
These programs are typically non-degree or certificate-based and last 12–24 months. Many include MCAT preparation, and they’re often more affordable than a graduate degree. They can significantly impact your med school application since they offer the chance to improve your undergraduate GPA.
What is a Master’s in Medical Science?
A Master’s in Medical Science is best suited for students who have already completed pre-med prerequisites, want to deepen their understanding of biomedical sciences, are looking to raise their graduate GPA, or may want to work in research, public health, or other graduate-level health fields.
These programs typically last one to two years and culminate in a graduate degree. Some may involve a thesis or research component, and while MCAT preparation is occasionally provided, the true value is the opportunity to demonstrate success in demanding, graduate-level science courses.
Key differences at a glance
To help you determine which path is best for you and aligns with your goals, here’s a side-by-side comparison of Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Med programs and Master’s in Medical Science degrees.
| Feature | Post-BACC Pre-Med | Master's in Medical Science |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Granted | Certificate/Non-degree | Master's Degree |
| GPA Impact | Undergraduate GPA | Graduate GPA only |
| Program Length | 12-24 months | 1-2 years |
| MCAT Prep | Often included | Sometimes included |
| Cost | Lower | Higher (but may offer aid) |
| Who It's For | Career changes, GPA boosters | Science grads, research-focused |
| Financial Aid | Limited | Federal loans are often available |
Post-BACC vs. Master’s: Choosing the right path
To choose between a Post-BACC and a Master’s in Medical Science, ask yourself:
- Do I have to take prerequisite science courses?
- Is my undergraduate GPA below the average for medical school admissions?
- Am I switching careers into medicine?
- Do I want to pursue a graduate degree as a backup plan (PA, PhD, public health)?
- Is research or academic prominence important to me?
Consider your goals, timeline, and financial situation. For example, if you want to increase a 2.9 GPA, a post-BACC certificate may be more appropriate. If you currently have a 3.5 but want to demonstrate academic development and do research, a Master’s may be a better choice.
The right path depends on your circumstances and aspirations, so aligning your choice with your long-term goals will provide the greatest return on your time and investment.
What the data says
Studies show that both routes for medical science degrees can be effective when aligned with an individual’s goals. Each pathway offers advantages depending on the student’s long-term aspirations.
Post-BACC programs provide academic preparation, clinical exposure, and the opportunity to strengthen medical school applications for those who want to pursue a career in medicine. In fact, Tufts Post-BACC students report a medical school acceptance rate of 96%.
If medical school is not the ultimate aim, a Master’s degree in Medical Science offers students alternative career opportunities in areas such as research or public health. These programs focus on scientific research, data analysis, and public health practices, preparing graduates for careers beyond clinical medicine.
Master’s degree holders often find themselves working in laboratories, academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, or governmental agencies, focusing on the advancements in healthcare from a systemic or research-based perspective.
Both pathways offer important contributions, and the choice between them should be guided by students’ professional goals, interests, and vision for how they want to impact the field of health and medicine.
Which path is right for you?
Choose a Post-BACC if you need to complete prerequisites, improve your undergraduate GPA, or change careers.
Choose a Master’s in Medical Science if you already have your science prerequisites, want to pursue advanced research or clinical options, or are thinking about other graduate-level health careers as alternatives.
At University of Bridgeport, we provide flexible and affordable programs for aspiring medical professionals. Whether you’re changing careers or expanding your science knowledge, UB has a welcoming environment for non-traditional, first-gen, and international students.
UB offers programs designed for career changers and working professionals, evening and online course options, no graduate application fee, pre-med advising and MCAT preparation, and access to the Career Development Office from day one.
Start your journey to medical school
Looking to strengthen your med school application? Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding your scientific knowledge, UB has a program for you. Explore UB’s Master’s in Medical Science or Pre-Medical Health Science programs and take the next step toward your future in medicine.