School of Health Professions Graduate STEM-designated
Master of Science in Medical Sciences
MS Master of Science
An online MS in Medical Sciences mirroring the first year of medical school, aligned to USMLE Step 1, with full-time and part-time tracks and MD interview opportunities at PHSU.
Curriculum
A curriculum that mirrors medical school
The MSMS methodology provides students with a broad-based core curriculum that mirrors the first year of LCME accredited medical school programs. The program can be completed full time over three semesters or part time over five semesters.
Strengthen your foundation
Courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, and more, strengthening your knowledge of biomedical sciences, clinical practices, and medical research.
Two ways to study
Train in a 100% online format with synchronous live classes in the full-time track and asynchronous coursework in the part-time track. Part-time students complete coursework primarily asynchronously, with 1 to 2 hours of required live class time each week.
Performance tracking
With monthly predictive analytics reports you will get a clear picture of how well you are understanding the course material. By tracking thousands of data points, such as your responses on quizzes, homework, exams, and study engagement, you will see exactly where you are excelling and which topics need additional focus.
Medical school-level rigor
Experience a curriculum aligned with the disciplines tested on the USMLE Step 1 Exam, with hands-on, problem-based learning through critical thinking exercises and real-world applications of biomedical principles.
Admission requirements
How to apply
The MSMS program is designed to help students strengthen their applications to medical school or other professional health programs. Applicants who do not meet these standards are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
General admission requirements
- Bachelor’s degree earned from an accredited institution
- 2.7 cumulative GPA
- 24 semester hours (36 quarter units) in physical and life sciences with a grade of C or better. Prerequisite courses cannot be older than 10 years.
- The 24-semester hour requirement is fulfilled by 8 semester hours (12 quarter units) of biology, 8 semester hours of chemistry, and 8 semester hours of organic chemistry.
- Accredited online courses are accepted, but students should review the requirements for any future degrees they are seeking.
- Medical schools or other health professions programs may require additional courses as prerequisites to satisfy their admission requirements; please refer to those programs for their admission prerequisites.
Recommended, not required
- 8 semester hours (12 quarter units) of physics
- 6 semester hours (9 quarter units) of biochemistry
- 6 semester hours (9 quarter units) of mathematics
- Test scores from one of the following standardized admissions tests: MCAT, DAT, OAT, PCAT, GRE, or VCAT
- Application requirements include transcripts showing the bachelor’s degree earned, as well as transcripts showing any prerequisite coursework. A personal statement and letters of recommendation may be requested as supplemental items.
Who should apply?
Flexible pathways to success
Whether you aim to pursue further education in medical school, dental school, or a career in the medical sciences, our MSMS program equips you with the skills and expertise needed to thrive. This program is perfect for students who:
Strengthen credentials
Applying to medical, dental, or PA school
Students who need to enhance their academic credentials before applying.
The intensive course curriculum will enable you to bolster your application for entrance to medical school or other higher education healthcare programs, with personalized faculty guidance on exploring and applying to medical school, physician assistant programs, public health, and research positions.
Structured pathway
Looking for a pre-med pathway
Students looking for a structured, pre-med pathway with faculty support and flexible online learning.
Complete your degree on a timeline that works for you, with full-time and part-time program options, and real-time performance tracking to improve your med school readiness.
New direction
Recent graduates and career changers
Students seeking a strong foundation in the biomedical sciences.
In this program you will identify your strengths in the health sciences as you explore your future in the field. Whether you want to continue to an advanced terminal degree or jump into your career, you will be supported as you plan your career pathway.
Career outcomes
Where the MSMS leads
The MSMS program prepares you for a wide range of professional healthcare careers and advanced academic opportunities. The program is designed to enhance your qualifications for medical school and other health-related fields.
Related programs
Start your application
Take the next step toward your medical career.