Is Biomedical Science a Good Path for Pre-Med Students?

Are you pursuing a medical degree and hoping a biomedical science major will steer you in the right direction? Learn the benefits of this degree option and whether it’s a good fit for you. 

The medical science field is vast, allowing students to decide where they best fit when deciding on a career. While it’s nice to have choices, starting on a pre-med path can be daunting if you’re trying to figure out what to study for your freshman year. You could focus on humanities, psychology, biology, or more—the options truly are limitless. How do you determine which is the most suitable path?

If you want to enter the medical industry but aren’t sure if a biomedical sciences program will get you there, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll provide guidance on what this major entails, the advantages and disadvantages of getting this degree, and any challenges and benefits of having a biomedical sciences degree for pre-med. 

What Is Biomedical Sciences? 

Biomedical sciences is a multidisciplinary field that combines biology, medicine, and technology to study the human body, its functions, and the diseases that affect it. This field focuses on understanding the biological and physiological principles that form the foundation of medical practice and research. 

Studying this subject will give you a basic understanding of biomedical sciences and specialized areas like pharmacology, human physiology, and nutrition. It can prepare you for a career in various medical positions and settings, making it a versatile option. 

The pillars of biomedical science include:

• Human anatomy and physiology: The study of the structure and function of living organisms, particularly the human body.
• Biochemistry: The study of the chemical processes and substances that occur within a living organism.
• Molecular biology: The study of how molecules interact to create life
• Microbiology: The study of microorganisms, which are microscopic organisms like viruses, fungi, and bacteria.
• Pharmacology: The study of the effect of drugs on living organisms, including their mechanisms of action, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity.
• Pathology: The study of diseases’ nature, causes, and effects

Advantages and Disadvantages of Getting a Biomedical Sciences Degree

A biomedical science degree is a great option if you want to go into pre-med. This versatile major serves as an excellent foundation for many professions that require an advanced degree, including:

• Medical doctor
• Dentist 
• Physician assistant
• Pharmacist
• Physical therapist
• Veterinarian
• Nurse practitioner
• Occupational therapist
• Optometrist
• Podiatrist
• Chiropractor

However, there are two sides to every coin: While this degree can set you up for many career opportunities, it can also have disadvantages. Let’s look at the pros and cons of pursuing a biomedical sciences major in your undergraduate studies as a pre-med student. 

Advantages of Getting a Biomedical Sciences Degree 

Here are the top reasons to consider getting a biomedical sciences degree in your pursuit of a medical career:

Comprehensive Preparation for Medical School

Because medicine is so extensive, a biomedical sciences program can prepare you for several key areas you’ll need to know. Whatever your interests are, this can help prepare you for medical school. You’ll cover core subjects like general biology, human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry, which are essential for the MCAT and medical school coursework. 

Research Opportunities

As a biomedical sciences student, you’ll have several opportunities to conduct undergraduate research on related topics, whether you’re interested in molecular pharmacology and cell biology or biotechnology and experimental pathology. 

Flexible Career Paths

Unlike many pre-med degrees, biomedical science isn’t just focused on medicine. This means you still have options if you move away from the medical field, like biomedical research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, public health, healthcare administration, or medical technology and diagnostics. 

Development of Practical Skills

Like any other medical degree, you’ll learn foundational skills that can be used in any setting, including positive patient treatment, empathy, communication, and teamwork. These abilities will enable you to be a competitive medical school contender. 

Networking Opportunities

During your studies, you’ll have access to experienced staff members and fellow students who can answer questions, provide guidance, and point you in the direction you’re hoping to go. Professors can write letters of recommendation, and other learners can become vital points of contact in the future. 

Disadvantages of Getting a Biomedical Sciences Degree

While you shouldn’t be discouraged from getting this degree, it’s good to be aware of potential roadblocks. Here are some cons of pursuing this undergraduate degree for pre-med:

Challenging Coursework

While no pre-med major is easy, the subject matter covered in biomedical sciences courses can be especially difficult. With so many topics to master in this expansive degree program, you may struggle with some course materials. 

Less Flexibility in Course Selection

The flexibility of your course options will depend on the university you attend. However, many programs have less flexibility regarding core classes than other pre-med degrees, as this is a more focused field of study. 

Competitive Environment

Medical school is highly competitive for all applicants, including those with a biomedical sciences undergraduate degree. While this program can provide a strong foundation for advanced degrees, it’s a very sought-after degree, meaning countless students will be applying with the same level of knowledge and understanding. 

Perception by Medical Schools

While many medical schools accept applicants with any undergraduate major, some may look for applicants with a broader or less niche degree.

Getting Your Biomedical Sciences Degree From MCPHS

While it’s a rigorous and demanding degree, students with strength in math and science should thrive, especially with the help of experienced staff members at MCPHS. Our professors have years of industry-level knowledge and can help you in your desire to enter the medical field, no matter what path you take. 

We have over 800 faculty members on our campuses, all wanting you to do your absolute best and to succeed in your future career. Plus, with a low student-to-teacher ratio, you’ll always have access to the brightest industry minds at a moment’s notice, allowing you to ask questions and receive personalized assistance. Our campuses are full of moral and academic support and classrooms equipped with the latest technology and innovations. At MCPHS, you are set to excel in whatever medical role you choose. 

Apply to MCPHS today to start your journey toward a medical degree.