What are postbaccalaureate programs?
Postbaccalaureate Programs (most often referred to as post-bacs) are essentially graduate-level bridge programs for students who need to work on their academic credentials before attending medical, dental school, or other health professions program. Some students choose these programs before applying to a professional program. Others decide to apply after not being accepted to a professional program. Several types exist: academic record-enhancement programs, underrepresented* student programs, and programs for people changing careers (offering undergraduate prerequisite courses). These programs also differ in the types of degrees awarded. Some grant certificates, others offer a traditional master’s degree (generally two years, require a thesis, academic focus on “hard” science), and some are special master’s programs (1-2 years, no thesis, and focused on either applied or medical science). For more information on postbaccalaureate programs, visit the AAMC’s Web site.
