Graduate Certificate in Premedical Studies (Post Baccalaureate Program)

Program Overview

The Pre-Medical 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 Pre-Medical 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 diversity 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: March 31
Program start: Fall semester

How to Apply

Submit your application through the Wayne State University Graduate Admissions portal: Graduate Admissions Application
Ensure all required documents are submitted by the March 31 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 March 31 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.
Vice Dean, Physiology and of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Academic Director, Pre-Medical Studies Graduate Certificate Program
Gordon Scott Hall
ad4730@wayne.edu

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

Tekiendria Batts
Director, Pre-Medical Studies Graduate Certificate Program
Gordon Scott Hall
tbatts3@wayne.edu

Program inquiries can be directed to Ms. Tekiendria Batts (tbatts3@wayne.edu or 313-577-2574)

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Overview

Q: How long does it take to complete the program? A: The Pre-Medical Studies Graduate Certificate Program is designed to be completed in one academic year (fall and winter semesters).

Q: Is this program considered full time? A: Yes, this is a full-time program. Students are expected to dedicate significant time to coursework and complementary program requirements.

Q: Will this program guarantee my admission to medical school? A: While our program is designed to strengthen your medical school application, and we provide comprehensive support to help you become a competitive applicant, completion does not guarantee admission to any medical school.

Admissions

Q: When can I apply to the program? A: The application cycle opens Feb. 1 and closes March 31 each year. All applications must be submitted through the Wayne State University Graduate Admissions portal.

Q: Is this a rolling admissions process? A: No, all complete applications received by the March 31 deadline are reviewed together after the application period closes.

Q: What happens if I miss the March 31 deadline? A: Late applications are not accepted. If you miss the deadline, you will need to wait until the next application cycle opens the following February.

Q: How will I know if my application is complete? A: You can track the status of your application and required documents through the graduate admissions portal. It is your responsibility to ensure all materials are submitted by the deadline.

Q: When will I find out if I've been accepted? A: Admissions decisions are typically communicated to all applicants by late May.

Q: Can I apply if I haven't taken the MCAT yet? A: No. You must have a valid MCAT score (taken within the past three years) at the time of application. The minimum required score is 495.

Q: What if my GPA is slightly below the minimum requirement? A: While we consider applications holistically, the minimum GPA requirements (2.75 cumulative, 2.5 science) are strictly enforced to ensure student success in the program.

Q: What does the selection process involve? A: The selection process includes a comprehensive review of all application materials, followed by interviews for selected candidates. Only applicants who complete both stages will be considered for final admission.

Q: When will I find out if I've been selected for an interview? A: Interview invitations are typically sent in early May. Selected candidates will have several days to schedule their interview from available time slots.

Q: When will I receive the final admission decision? A: Final decisions are communicated to all applicants by late May, following the completion of all interviews.

Q: If accepted, can I defer my admission to the next year? A: Deferrals are not typically granted for this program. If you cannot attend in the year you are accepted, you will need to reapply during the next application cycle.

Curriculum

Q: Can I take additional courses beyond the required 12 credits? A: The program is carefully structured with the required courses and additional complementary requirements. Additional coursework outside the program is prohibited.

Q: Are classes offered online or in-person? A: All courses are conducted in-person at the School of Medicine campus to provide hands-on learning experiences and direct interaction with faculty.

Financial Information

Q: Is there a cost to attend this program? A: Accepted students receive a full scholarship that covers program tuition and fees.

Q: How do I apply for the scholarship? A: No separate scholarship application is required. All accepted students automatically receive the scholarship.

Q: What is the stipend amount and who is eligible? A: Stipend eligibility and amounts are determined during the admission process. Details will be provided in the acceptance letter.

Q: When are stipends distributed? A: For eligible students, stipends are typically distributed at regular intervals throughout the academic year. Specific payment schedules will be provided to eligible students upon enrollment.

Q: Are there any conditions attached to the scholarship or stipend? A: Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet all program requirements to remain eligible for financial support.

Q: Do I need to report this financial support on my taxes? A: We recommend consulting with a tax professional regarding your specific situation, as some forms of educational support may have tax implications.

Q: What additional costs should I plan for? A: While the program and additional resources are covered, students should plan for personal expenses such as housing, transportation and learning materials that exceed the program financial support.