By Sarah Amaladoss
The Brown Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) is an eight-year program run by Brown University that combines undergraduate education and professional studies in a baccalaureate-MD program. It is not only the first of its kind in the Ivy League, but also one of the few programs like its own across the country. Designed with the goal of enriching highly motivated and high achieving students, the Brown PLME program is truly a fulfilling program that can help you pave the way for your future.
The Program
Students are admitted as undergraduates and typically pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree before their medical education. Over 100 concentrations are available across multiple fields, giving students a broad range of educational pursuits and learning choices. After completing their Bachelor’s degree in the first 4 years of the program, students will move onto the Warren Alpert Medical school to continue their medical studies.
Undergraduate Program
The Undergraduate years of the program are intended to prepare students in the best way possible for their medical studies by exposing them to a wide breadth of opportunities and learning experiences. The aim of the undergraduate program is ultimately to best prepare students for the last 4 years of the program which culminates in the MD degree. During the summer, students have the ability to do independent studies, laboratory research, and elective coursework, all of which can deeply enrich their learning experience.
Admissions
The Brown PLME program is highly competitive. The class of 2019 had an acceptance rate of 3.5%, making it one of the most selective programs in the country.
Although Brown University does not have specific high school requirements for their courses, the following are recommended:
four years of English with significant emphasis on writing
three years of college preparatory mathematics
three years of a foreign language
two years of laboratory science above freshman level
two years of history - including American history
at least one year of elective academic subjects.
Prospective science or engineering majors should have completed: physics, chemistry, and advanced mathematics. Students should also demonstrate a strong command of writing and language.
Advantages
For students who are certain that Brown University and the medical school path is right for them, the Brown PLME provides the opportunity to attend a fantastic university whilst being guaranteed admission into medical school. Provided they pass the required classes, students automatically obtain admission to the Warren Alpert Medical school, taking away the stress of medical school applications, the MCAT, and interviews. Brown’s focus on a liberal education, specifically at the undergraduate level, provides students with greater freedom to choose their own undergraduate path through the wide variety of courses offered.
Overall, the Brown PLME is a fantastic program for high achieving students that are pursuing the medical field. Its focus on a broader, liberal education provides students with immense freedom to explore and gain experience in interdisciplinary fields of learning. Although not easy, the program is greatly rewarding and provides a well rounded education and learning experience for its students.
Works Cited:
Brown.edu. n.d. Program in Liberal Medical Education | Program in Liberal Medical Education. [online] Available at: <https://www.brown.edu/academics/medical/plme/> [Accessed 13 September 2021].
Sarikas, C., 2020. What's Brown PLME? Acceptance Rate, Requirements, and How to Get In. [online] Blog.prepscholar.com. Available at: <https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-brown-plme> [Accessed 13 September 2021].
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