RISE-MED Certificate
About the Program
The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Biomedical Sciences is a 15-credit hour, fully online program designed to strengthen academic readiness for medical school and other graduate health professions. The program provides intensive coursework in the biomedical sciences, MCAT preparation, and personalized career mentoring to support students pursuing admission into medical school or similar advanced programs.
The program emphasizes content mastery, critical reasoning, and application of foundational science knowledge through courses aligned with the first-year medical curriculum. Course materials are developed in accordance with Quality Matters standards and include both asynchronous instruction and structured assessments.
Cohort Structure and Start Dates
- Two cohorts per year (Fall and Spring start).
- Cohorts are limited to 20 students to ensure individualized mentoring and support.
Cost
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they are enrolled in the prescribed courses and to pay tuition and fees at the time designated by the Bursar's Office. Details regarding tuition/fee charges and collection are available from the Bursar's Office.
Prerequisites
Requirements
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (preferred).
- Completion of prerequisite coursework in general biology and general chemistry (with lab).
- Personal statement addressing academic and career goals.
- One letter of recommendation from a faculty member or healthcare professional.
- Resume or CV.
Program Objectives
Program Goals
- Prepare students for entry into medical school or related health science programs.
- Increase representation of students from underserved and rural areas in medicine.
- Support academic growth in foundational biomedical sciences and MCAT readiness.
Program Outcomes | Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the biological basis of health and disease.
- Achieve median-level MCAT readiness through guided preparation.
- Apply advanced skills in critical analysis and reasoning.
- Receive targeted mentoring for professional advancement into medical or health-related careers.