Readiness through Interdisciplinary Skill Enhancement in Medical Education (RISE-MED)

What is this program/degree?

• RISE-MED is a 15-credit hour, fully online post-baccalaureate certificate program designed to prepare students for successful entry into medical school. The program combines advanced instruction in biomedical sciences, critical thinking, and social determinants of health with targeted MCAT preparation, professional development, and personalized mentoring. RISE-MED supports students who are committed to becoming physicians but need an additional academic and strategic boost to enhance their medical school applications.

What can someone pursue in this field of study?

• Students in this program are typically pursuing a future in medicine or other healthcare professions. RISE-MED provides the academic foundation, professional skills, and application guidance needed for competitive entry into: 
• Medical school (MD or DO) 
• Physician assistant programs 
• Other advanced clinical or health science graduate programs 

What can I do with this degree after graduation? 

• Strengthen your medical school application with recent, rigorous academic coursework 
• Improve your MCAT readiness and test-taking strategy 
• Gain insight into health equity, systems-based practice, and interdisciplinary teamwork 
• Receive guidance on personal statements, interview preparation, and professional readiness.  
• Graduates are well-positioned to apply to medical school with confidence, having completed a structured, skill-enhancing academic program with direct relevance to the medical school environment 

What makes this program special at the college?  

• RISE-MED stands out for its: 
• Targeted focus on medical school preparation, with a curriculum designed by academic faculty and healthcare professionals 
• Online, asynchronous format, allowing students to participate from anywhere while balancing other responsibilities 
• Individualized mentoring and MCAT coaching, embedded into the program experience 
• Interdisciplinary curriculum that includes biomedical science, social determinants of health, and health systems knowledge 
• Supportive learning community that prioritizes access, equity, and personalized support 
• As part of a HRSA-funded initiative, RISE-MED is especially committed to supporting students from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds who are passionate about improving health in underserved communities.