In researching the topic of Special Masters Programs (SMP’s), I was able to locate over 75 different programs across the nation. These programs are broken down into two main categories, one-year and two-year programs. The one-year programs offer a strong science foundation while the two-year programs include a research project and thesis and/or a literature review. Some of the programs are located on graduate school campuses while others are offered through medical schools. At programs affiliated with medical schools, students take classes with the medical students. The advantage of this arrangement is that the credit you earn towards your Master’s Degree may also be used to satisfy your medical school requirements.
Any coursework that you complete as part of a SMP will be calculated separately on your AMCAS application, as part of your graduate coursework GPA. If it is your undergraduate GPA that needs improvement, additional postbaccalaureate coursework may be a better option for you than a SMP. For students with strong undergraduate science GPA’s, SMP’s can be a fantastic way to set your application apart for the following reasons.
Overall, SMP’s allow you to:
• Gain additional science coursework.
• Access valuable resources and mentors.
• Demonstrate that you can excel at the graduate level.
• Allow you to gain expertise in the area of your interest that may inform and guide your long-term career goals.
• Provide you with a Master’s Degree, an additional credential.
• Help you network with other students, medical students, researchers, professors, and other experts in their field. A strong professional network can lead to limitless opportunities.
• Give you the opportunity to request current letters of recommendation from graduate or medical school faculty.
• May assist you in learning to conduct an independent research project at a university, hospital, or medical center.
• May let you demonstrate and establish your expertise through poster presentations, abstracts and journal publications.
• Provide valuable life experience and confidence that will directly enhance your ability to guide patients towards the best resources and most current information available.
An SMP can help you become a more competitive applicant to medical school on a number of levels. It can set your application apart through GPA and the guidance and endorsement of a mentor. Furthermore, it informs the direction of your career and provides resources and learning opportunities that will result in a year or two of intense professional and self-development.