Master's Before Med School? Pros, Cons, & What to Know

Embarking on the journey to become a medical professional is a noble pursuit that requires careful planning and consideration. Many aspiring doctors grapple with the decision of whether to pursue a master's before med school. It’s important to explore the pros and cons of obtaining a master's degree before attending medical school and research valuable insights to help prospective students make informed choices.

Pros of Receiving a Master’s Before Med School

For some, the decision to pursue a master's before med school serves as a strategic choice, offering a range of potential benefits. From academic enrichment to research opportunities and the cultivation of diverse skills, the advantages of this educational sequence can significantly impact an individual's preparedness and success in the rigorous field of medicine.

Academic Enrichment

Pursuing a master's degree before medical school can offer a solid foundation in a specific field of study. This academic enrichment can enhance your understanding of scientific principles and better prepare you for the rigorous curriculum of medical school.

Research Opportunities

Some master's programs provide valuable research opportunities. Engaging in scientific research not only contributes to the advancement of medical knowledge but also strengthens your critical thinking and analytical skills—attributes highly valued in the medical field.

Diversification of Skills

A master's degree allows you to diversify your skill set. Depending on your chosen field, you may acquire skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or public health. These additional skills can make you a more well-rounded and adaptable medical professional.

Networking Opportunities

Graduate programs often provide networking opportunities with experienced professionals and researchers. Building a network in your chosen field can open doors to mentorship, collaborative projects, and potentially even enhance your chances of securing a spot in a reputable medical school.

Time for Self-Reflection

Taking time to pursue a master's degree allows for self-reflection. It provides an opportunity to confirm your passion for medicine, assess your strengths and weaknesses, and ensure that you are making a well-informed decision about committing to the demanding path of medical school.

Cons of Receiving a Master’s Before Med School

From the duration of education and financial considerations to the potential risk of burnout, understanding these disadvantages is essential for prospective medical students to make informed choices about the most suitable path for their academic and professional aspirations.

Extended Duration of Education

One of the primary drawbacks of pursuing a master's degree before medical school is the extended duration of education. Adding a master's program to the already lengthy process of becoming a doctor may delay your entry into the workforce and result in increased student loan debt.

We spoke with a Trinity alum and resident who tried this approach, Dr. Charelle Smith. Dr. Smith graduated Magna cum laude from her undergraduate program but enrolled in a master’s program to improve her odds with admission to US medical schools.

"My goal was mainly to increase my MCAT scores. My GPA was already great, but I had a lot of test-taking anxiety, and back then, I wasn’t what you’d call amazing at applying my knowledge to a standardized testing format. I entered Drexel’s post-baccalaureate program, an interesting approach that could transition either into medical school or move you into a master’s in the medical science program. I sat through a lot of classes I’d already taken before and did well as a refresher, ready to go after the next application cycle.

Ultimately my performance didn’t live up to my own standards, and the next step for that master’s degree was going to involve a major financial investment and moving to another city. Neither of those was my ultimate goal. I wanted to go to medical school. I did improve my MCAT scores by quite a bit when I retook them (a 6-point jump on the old model), but I ultimately went home and resumed work as a teacher. It just wasn’t worth it. Later, of course, I found Trinity and I’m now in my residency, so it worked out. Honestly, if I’d known about Trinity’s pre-med [5 year] program back then, I would have gone directly into that and saved quite a bit of time and money."

Financial Considerations

Financing graduate education can be a significant concern. Master's programs often come with their own set of tuition and living expenses, and the financial burden can be substantial. Prospective medical students should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the financial costs of pursuing a master's degree.

‍“I would have gone to Trinity a year earlier, because staying up here and doing a year of grad school was a huge waste of time and money,” Dr. Smith states. “I could have been doing what I wanted to do all along. That is the one thing that I would have changed.”

Burnout Risk

The demanding nature of medical school means that burnout is a genuine concern. Adding a master's program to the mix can increase the workload and stress levels. It's crucial to assess your capacity for handling the intensity of both academic pursuits without compromising your well-being.

Varied Admission Requirements

Different medical schools have varied admission requirements. While some may appreciate the additional academic achievements gained through a master's program, others may prioritize a strong undergraduate foundation. Researching the admission criteria of your target medical schools is essential to ensure alignment with your educational path.

Jumpstart Your Medical School Experience at Trinity School of Medicine

As you navigate the intricate decision-making process of whether to pursue a master's degree before embarking on your medical school journey, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons thoughtfully. At Trinity School of Medicine, we understand the importance of a well-informed decision. If you're ready to take the next step in your medical career, consider the possibilities that Trinity School of Medicine offers, which include our pre-med program and our MD program. Contact us today or apply to Trinity to get started.

‍This article has been updated to provide the greatest relevance & timeliness for our readers. It was originally published January 2019.