Special Master’s Program (SMP) – Advantage
Special Master’s Program (SMP) are a good option for a Premedical Gap Year. Compared to other options, it is usually very difficult to get into SMPs and the classes tend to be very demanding compared to Master’s in Public Health or post-baccalaureate programs. However, if you perform very well, you increase your chances of being admitted. Some medical schools may even invite you for an interview if you have a high GPA in your SMP program. Also, you may get research opportunities as many SMPs allow interested students to conduct research. Just like post-baccalaureate programs, you can build relationships with your professors so that you can easily get recommendation letters.
Special Master’s Program (SMP)- Disadvantage
Special Master’s Program (SMP) is not that valued. This means that if you don’t do well in the program, you would have been in huge debt or wasted a lot of money with almost nothing to show for it. In addition, the admission requirements are set high compared to the post-baccalaureate programs. It also takes long to complete (sometimes two years) the SMPs.
Students who want more research experience, as well as the chance to improve their GPAs, can go for this program. Even students who have a lower but competitive GPA and could not get into the school of their choice should enroll in this program. However, students who will probably struggle in the SMP program as well as students whose GPA is very compared to what the majority of DO and MD will accept should not apply for this program.