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Graduate Certificate in Premedical Studies (Post Baccalaureate Program)

APPLICATION NOW OPEN: February 1, 2026 – April 15, 2026

Program Overview

The Premedical Studies Graduate Certificate Program offers a rigorous, specialized curriculum designed for individuals seeking to enhance their academic preparation for a medical doctor program.

This program is a didactic, human biology-oriented curriculum involving primarily courses with content from several Basic Science departments and programs.


Prospective Students

Welcome to the Premedical Studies Graduate Certificate Program at the Wayne State University School of Medicine. The certificate program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring physicians to strengthen their medical school candidacy through rigorous academic preparation.

In this one-year certificate program students benefit from expert instruction, intensive complementary resources and dedicated learning support services. As part of our commitment to expanding opportunities in medicine, we offer full tuition scholarships to accepted students and potential stipend opportunities to support your educational journey.

The curriculum integrates foundational science coursework with professional development, preparing you to become a well-rounded professional. Through smaller class sizes, we provide the academic environment and support services needed to help you achieve your academic goals.

Explore the sections below to learn more about our eligibility requirements, curriculum and application process.

Eligibility Requirements

  • U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, Canadian citizen or Wayne State University graduate (bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree) regardless of citizenship

  • Michigan resident
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (completed by June of application year)
  • Minimum MCAT score of 495
    • Must be taken within last three years
    • Maximum of two attempts in the last year
    • Maximum of six total attempts
  • Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.75
  • Combined biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics GPA of 2.5
  • Completed medical school prerequisites
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Current AMCAS® application (within last three years of date of application)

Priority consideration given to first-generation college graduates

Curriculum Requirements

The 12-credit certificate program includes core courses designed to reflect the rigor and structure of medical school. Each course* is crafted to develop key competencies:

  • PSL 5200 Embryology – Understanding human development from fertilization to structural formation.
  • PSL 5250 Biochemistry – Comprehensive study of biochemistry, including protein, lipid structures and metabolic pathways.
  • PSL 5300 Physiology – Coverage of key physiological principles relevant to medical school programs’ expectations.
  • PSL 5400 Histology – Mastery of cellular, tissue and organ structures at a microscopic level.
  • PSL 5450 Gross Anatomy – Knowledge of human musculoskeletal anatomy and related medical applications.
  • PSL 7350 Psychosocial Perspectives of Health Care – Exploration of psychosocial challenges faced in medical training and practice.

* Full course descriptions can be found here: https://bulletins.wayne.edu/courses/psl/

Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must complete 12 credits and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Application Process and Timeline

Important Dates
  • Application opens: Feb. 1
  • Application deadline: April 15
  • Program start: Fall semester
How to Apply
  1. Submit your application through the Wayne State University Graduate Admissions portal: Graduate Admissions Application

  2. Ensure all required documents are submitted by the April 15 deadline:
    • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
    • MCAT scores
    • Three letters of recommendation
    • Current AMCAS® application
    • Proof of residency (for Michigan residents)
Application Review Process
  • Applications are reviewed after the April 15 deadline
  • All completed applications receive full consideration
  • Select candidates will be invited for interviews in early April; interviews are conducted mid- to late April
  • Final decisions are communicated to all applicants by late May
  • Admitted students must confirm their intention to enroll by the specified deadline in their acceptance letter

Program Administration and Staff

Joseph Dunbar, Ph.D.
Professor and William T. Traitel Endowed Chair of Physiology
Academic Director, Premedical Studies Graduate Certificate Program
Gordon Scott Hall
ad4730@wayne.edu

Ryan Mohan, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Pharmacology
Co-Academic Director, Premedical Studies Graduate Certificate Program
Gordon Scott Hall
RDM@wayne.edu

Program inquiries can be directed to SoMPremedGC@wayne.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions