Post-Baccalaureate Medical Programs
Explore two distinct pathways to strengthen your journey toward medical school, each designed to support different goals, experiences, and stages of preparation
Which Post-Baccalaureate Program Is Right For You?
Choose the program that aligns with your goals: strengthen your academic record and receive MCAT support through the Post-Bac Premed Program, or gain hands-on research experience and direct clinical exposure through the Post-Bac Medical Research & Clinical Certificate.
Post Baccalaureate Premedical Program
The UC San Diego Post Bac Premed Program is designed for first-time and re-applicants to medical schools who have already completed their medical prerequisite coursework, but who wish to enhance their academic record within a personalized and supportive, cohort-based learning community.
Post-Baccalaureate Medical Research and Clinical Experience Certificate
The UC San Diego Post-Bac Medical Research and Clinical Certificate offers aspiring medical students a comprehensive pathway to medical school blending in-depth clinical experience with robust research opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your main goal is to strengthen your academic record and receive MCAT support, the Post-Bac Premed Program may be the better fit. If you want hands-on research experience and direct clinical exposure while preparing for medical school, the Post-Bac Medical Research & Clinical Certificate may suit your goals better.
If you’re interested in both programs, it’s recommended to begin with the Post-Bac Premedical Program and then apply to the Post-Bac Medical Research and Clinical Experience Certificate afterward, as admission to the Certificate program requires a strong GPA.
Both for different reasons. The Post-Bac Premed Program emphasizes a cohort-based learning community with personalized academic advising, ideal for strengthening your coursework and MCAT readiness. The Post-Bac Medical Research & Clinical Certificate provides mentorship primarily through research and clinical placements, giving hands-on guidance in real-world medical settings.