Some postbac programs have their own websites and application systems. Other programs may be harder to find since they are small programs connected to a medical school, or they may be conditional acceptance programs that operate by invitation only.
If you are preparing to apply to postbac programs, there are several resources that can help you with the task of finding the best one for you:
1. The Definitive Guide to Premedical Postbaccalaureate Programs
Start with the published literature on the topic! For this book, I researched all of the premedical programs available in the U.S. The index of the book includes a comprehensive list of all of the programs that exist. Inside the book, there are interviews with programs directors and students who have successfully matriculated into medical school after completing a postbac program. The book is now available on Accepted and Amazon.
2. AAMC Postbac Database
On the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) website, you’ll find a search database dedicated solely to listing the website and contact information for the postbac programs that register with them. The benefit of this database is that it has the contact information for program directors and coordinators. The only problem with using this site is that sometimes the information is no longer current or active.
3. AACOM Information Book
The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) Information Book includes information each year on the postbac programs available to pursue this field. Most of the programs listed are SMPs (special master degree programs). If you know that you want to become a DO, I recommend focusing on applying to these programs to become a more competitive applicant. *Note: If you need to improve your undergraduate GPA, a SMP will not improve your undergraduate GPA since it calculates into your graduate GPA.
4. Student Doctor Network Forums
Since Student Doctor Network forum users create anonymous screen names, the comments on this site can get out of hand since there is no accountability. However, at times, you can glean useful information about postbac programs and the application process here. If you have specific questions, you can create a conversation and hope that you receive some serious and useful responses.
5. Contact nearby schools
The easiest way to find a postbac program in your area may be to contact the local med schools in your area and ask their pre-health advisors about the postbac options nearby. Or if you’d like to take informal postbac coursework, you can enroll as a second bacc student on their campus and take classes on your own. If possible, work with an advisor to make sure that you’re taking the right classes and course combinations!
6. Connect with premed clubs and conferences
Get connected to the premed club in your area, even if you have already graduated. Attend all conferences at the local medical schools. Networking with faculty, medical students, and other premed students will help you locate more resources and programs. Many students matriculating into medical school have completed some form of postbaccalaureate coursework these days. Talking to them about their academic backgrounds can guide you in the right direction.
Hopefully, these strategies will help you find the program you are looking for. Often, it’s a matter of leaving no stone unturned and considering every possible resource. It’s difficult to ask for help, but finding a mentor or counselor to help guide you through the process may lead you directly to what you are seeking – and save you tons of time.
Alicia McNease Nimonkar is an Accepted advisor and editor specializing in healthcare admissions. Prior to joining Accepted, Alicia worked for five years as Student Advisor at UC Davis’ postbac program where she both evaluated applications and advised students applying successfully to med school and related programs. Want Alicia to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!
Related Resources:
• A Second Chance at Medical School: The A-Z of Applying to Postbac Programs
• Admissions Straight Talk Podcast: All Things Postbac
• Which Type of Postbac Program is Best for you?
If one does a graduate postbac will this still enhance your undergraduate gpa?
Hi Keisha,
Thank you for your question! If you take graduate level classes for postbac coursework it will not have any impact on your undergraduate GPA. If you need to improve your undergraduate GPA, I recommend taking undergraduate level postbac coursework (upper division bio science classes). Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Wishing you all the best!
Thank you for your quick response! I was just unsure b/c on the aamc website for the postbac section, it gives you the option of choosing whether you want graduate or undergraduate postbac programs. When I choose graduate, some schools showed “academic record-enhancers”. Just trying to figure it all out, not sure how to proceed. I know many undergraduate postbacs don’t do not offer much financial aid (know this from personal experience).
All the best to you as well!
You’re right, Keisha, that most postbac programs do not offer much financial support. There are lots of options! Many programs are part time so that students can work while taking classes. I’d be happy to provide a free consultation for you.
Wishing you all the best!
I’m confused on the information saying SMP do not enhance undergraduate gpa? How is this so?
SMPs are considered graduate school programs rather than extensions of your undergraduate career. Therefore, medical schools will calculate your undergraduate and SMP GPAs separately. Your SMP grades will definitely be considered by medical schools and can enhance your academic profile, but is usually not DIRECTLY calculated into your undergraduate GPA. This means that if your undergraduate GPA is very low, a postbac might be a better fit for you.
Hi Michelle,
Current.smp.student is correct. The undergraduate GPA and graduate GPA are calculated separately on the AMCAS application. SMP’s are considered graduate coursework. An SMP wouldn’t have any impact on your undergraduate GPA. If you have a low undergraduate GPA, it may be best for you to complete post baccalaureate coursework. Good luck!