<p>I can only address Penn’s Vagelos MLS program as I have sophomore son in it now. This is not your typical pre-med program. It is actually geared for those interested in going on to do research at the Ph.D or MD/Ph.D level. It also involves getting a degree in biochemistry plus another major or alternatively a Masters in chemistry or biochemistry in your 4 undergraduate years.</p>
<p>It is true that more than 1/2 of the students drop out of the program (not Penn itself). Many want a more rounded education than what Vagelos allows. Others decide they don’t want to major in biochemistry. Some no doubt feel that the rigor of the program will harm their GPA. Still others may be disappointed in the lack of camaraderie within the program.</p>
<p>Having said all this, if you are truly interested in biochemistry with research you should consider MLS. The majority of those who stick it out end up in very top tier graduate programs in the field of their choice. Here is a link that summarizes where almost all the past graduates have ended up:
[url=<a href=“Biochemistry | Penn Arts & Sciences”>Biochemistry | Penn Arts & Sciences]Graduates[/url</a>]</p>
<p>As far as GPA and getting into Med Schools, it seems that many programs like what they see in MLS and probably give some slack for what they know is an extremely rigorous program.</p>
<p>As for my son, he is majoring in biochemistry and physics as well as getting a Masters degree biochemistry. He doesn’t know if he wants a Ph.D, MD or MD/Ph.d after he graduates, but feels he will be quite prepared for any of them.</p>
<p>Like I said, it’s not for everyone. But for those who want this kind of track, there are few (if any) other schools that would accommodate this kind of undergraduate experience.</p>