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3 Terms | 11-Months Blended or Online
5 Terms | 20-Months Online
Fall:
Spring: January 8th, 2024
Summer: May 6th, 2024
Students may opt for one of three program schedule and delivery method combinations, each of which offers the same courses and degree. 11-month blended (on-campus), 11-month 100% online, or 20-month 100% online. SCU doesn’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Southern California University of Health Sciences.” That’s because SCU online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
SCU is committed to your success. All students are paired with a faculty advisor to help them achieve academic goals, address challenges, make timely progress toward degree completion, and succeed as a future healthcare professional.
In SCU Student Perspectives, alumni share about their experiences in the MSMS program. Graduates describe how the MSMS degree empowered them towards their career and educational goals.
Graduates of the MSMS program are eligible to apply. Fellows help teach courses and conduct research. SCU provides funding for both coursework and extracurricular projects. The 11-month part-time position gives two Fellows the opportunity to receive further education, research experience, and professional academia experience as MSMS Moderators. Learn more about the Post-MSMS Fellowship.
A flipped classroom design is an innovative approach to teaching. In a flipped classroom setting, you watch lectures online and completing assigned reading before class. During class, your time is dedicated to immersive discussions, interactive cases, and collaborative group work. You also have access to pre-recorded lectures given by MSMS faculty on concepts and learning material critical for in-class sessions and examinations.
Spend time working through clinical scenarios, allowing you and your classmates to experience firsthand how your education can be applied to actual healthcare delivery.
In as little as one year, you can improve your academic record, increase your Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores, and gain a competitive advantage for applying or re-applying to medical school, dental school, physician assistant programs, or other competitive health professional schools. The MSMS program includes an optional self-paced MCAT focused prep course available to students who desire further immersion.
Our MSMS graduates are eligible for guaranteed medical school interviews with our partner institutions. Partner medical schools include Ponce Health Sciences University, Ross University School of Medicine, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, and A.T. Still University of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona. Learn more about the requirements for guaranteed medical school interviews and scholarships.
Our MSMS graduates are eligible for guaranteed interviews with SCU’s Master of Science: Physician Assistant (MSPA) Program. Students who meet specific requirements will be guaranteed an interview. Visit PA admissions requirements for details.
Real-time feedback enables our faculty to adapt to your learning needs. You are tested in real-time during in class sessions using response clickers and engagement tools. Interactive engagement tools empower you to assess your understanding of the material. Every answer from a student is tracked through iClicker. The data collected daily from you and your classmates through testing, combined with the data from MSMS students at our partner institutions, measures student comprehension, identifies subjects where students need help, and highlights areas where students excel. Identify difficult topic areas and gain real-time reporting on whether you have mastered each topic and learning outcome. This applies to full-time study only. Learn more about SCU Tools for MSMS students.
SCU utilizes USMLE-styled (United States Medical Licensing Examination®) questions to build upon current educational models for effective learning. This prepares you for the type of questions you’ll be asked to answer on future admissions, board, and licensure exams.
Graduates have found that MSMS is a marketable master’s degree when applying to programs in healthcare fields such as:
The classes in the MSMS program mirror the curriculum of the first year of LCME-accredited medical school, so students can prepare for what’s next after graduation. This first year of learning is an excellent foundation for all students. Both full-time and part-time students follow the same curriculum, the only difference is the number of credits taken each term. Students receive frequent one-on-one faculty advising throughout the program, regardless of the model chosen.
Students will take a comprehensive exam at the end of select terms to help assess progress. After completion of the program, students are additionally provided the NBME Comprehensive Basic Science Self-Assessments (CBSSA). This exam gives our students an advantage by providing them with an evaluation of their readiness for the USMLE®.
11-month Blended
The 11-month blended on-campus program utilizes multiple learning environments. Students participate in on-campus virtual synchronous instruction Monday through Friday from approximately 7:00 am to 1:00 pm PT. During this time students have virtual lectures, self-directed learning time, examinations, and interwoven small group discussions.
11-month Online
The 11-month 100% online courses are offered Monday through Friday, generally in 5- to 6-hour blocks, through virtual interactive sessions delivered online by faculty via live video feed. Students are highly encouraged to refrain from full-time employment due to the rigorous format of the program. This program is designed for students who are aiming for clinical, not research, careers.
20-month Online
For students interested in flexible on-demand learning, this program can integrate with your schedule and classes can be taken from anywhere in the world. Students take the same curriculum, however, courses are spread over five terms instead of three for a flexible course load. Courses are offered online Monday through Friday. Recorded lectures are consumed outside of class flexibly and on-demand, while the weekly synchronous class time is focused on student comprehension. One to two hours of scheduled class time are required per week with two date/time options to choose from.
11-month Blended: Students in the 11-month Blended program are expected to enroll for three consecutive terms including summer. Courses are offered Monday through Friday, generally in 5- to 6-hour blocks, through virtual interactive sessions delivered on-campus by faculty via live video feed. Students physically attend all courses on SCU’s campus.
11-month Online: Students in the 11-month Online program are expected to enroll for 3 consecutive terms, including summer. Courses are offered Monday through Friday, generally in 5- to 6-hour blocks, through virtual interactive sessions delivered online by faculty via live video feed.
20-month Online: Students enrolled in the 20-month Online program are expected to enroll for 5 consecutive terms, including summer. Courses are offered online Monday through Friday. Recorded lectures are consumed outside of class flexibly and on-demand, while the weekly synchronous class time is focused on student comprehension. One to two hours of scheduled class time are required per week with two date/time options to choose from.
For full program information, view the catalog.
Welcome to the Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) program at Southern California University of Health Sciences. The first question I ask a student is what drives you? Given the field of study you have chosen, I already have a good idea of what you are passionate about, most likely helping others, finding the answers to difficult questions, learning new things, and always pushing to go further. The MSMS program we have developed in conjunction with Tiber Health will satisfy all your passions on your journey to become a healthcare provider. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the knowledge and understanding to secure a position in the healthcare science programs including medical school, nursing, physician assistant, pharmaceutical sciences, chiropractic, and many more. The MSMS program is designed to be an accelerated academic program to quickly move you forward in your career.
I hope that, in addition to developing into a well-rounded student, you become the future healthcare leaders that give back to the community and make tomorrow better and brighter than today. I invite you to explore our site and learn more about the program.
What drives you? I look forward to discussing with you and my door is always open if you have any questions.
Program Director, Master of Science In Medical Science
Southern California University of Health Sciences
The most memorable aspect of the MSMS program was the connections and relationships I created with the faculty and students. I was able to attend office hours and got to learn more about my professor's experience in healthcare, get help on class material, and advice to help me on my path to becoming a Physician Assistant. I also got to know my cohort personally through zoom meetings and study groups, conquering the material together. I am grateful for the support I have received through this program, which is something that I cherish.
I chose the MSMS program because I am an inspiring physician, and this program focuses on the rigor of what it would be like for the first year of medical school. As a first-generation student, I wanted to be more competitive when applying to medical school, and this program helped me achieve that. My favorite course in the program was the Neuroscience course; Dr. Green and Dr. Nygard were the best instructors. They made this challenging course easier to comprehend. I liked that they focused on the clinical manifestations because I am interested in that area as an inspiring physician. As a CNA and a Nurse Assistant, I could see how a neurologist would perform these neurological exams on patients, so it was extraordinary for me to learn about it and conduct it.
Applicants to the Master of Science in Medical Science must meet the following minimum requirements. Applicants who do not meet all standards may be admitted with the approval of the Program Director; exceptions are made on an individual basis.
A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. While applicants typically have degrees in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, or other related fields, applicants with degrees in other fields of study will be considered.
Undergraduate GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale. Exceptions to the GPA requirements are considered on a case-by-case basis.
| Term | Tuition* | Program Fees | Petition to Graduate Fee | Total Term Cost* |
| 1 | $12,180 | $250 | – | $12,430 |
| 2 | $12,180 | $250 | – | $12,430 |
| 3 | $12,180 | $250 | $225 | $12,655 |
| Totals | $36,540 | $750 | $225 | $37,515 |
| Term | Tuition* | Program Fees | Petition to Graduate Fee | Total Term Cost* |
| 1 | $7,308 | $200 | – | $7,508 |
| 2 | $7,308 | $200 | – | $7,508 |
| 3 | $7,308 | $200 | – | $7,508 |
| 4 | $7,308 | $200 | – | $7,508 |
| 5 | $7,308 | $200 | $225 | $7,733 |
| Totals | $36,540 | $1,000 | $225 | $37,765 |
$36,540 tuition to complete the 3 terms program.*
SCU’s distinctive Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee for degree programs provides students with confidence in planning for their educational investment.
Fixed Tuition Guarantee Benefits:
If you would like to learn more about the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at FinancialAid@scuhs.edu.
*Tuition is built on a term basis, not credit hour and the rate reflected above represents the fixed rate for a student entering during the 2023-2024 academic year. Tuition rates are subject to change and may not be reflected on this website or other SCU materials. Please contact us for the most updated information.
**Some limitations apply. View the Fixed Rate Tuition Guarantee page for more information
SCU’s MSMS graduates are eligible for guaranteed interviews and scholarships at our partner institutions. See below for requirements.
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC)
AUC teaches a US-modeled basic sciences curriculum in a high-tech campus. After completing basic sciences, students can do their clinical rotations in the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom at AUC-affiliated teaching hospitals. Graduates of the MSMS program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher are guaranteed an interview. Eligible individuals accepted into AUC will also qualify for the SCU Partner Scholarship of either $10,000 or $7,500 dependent upon the student’s undergraduate GPA. Learn about the AUC interview and scholarship.
A.T. Still University of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA)
ATSU-SOMA began as the first college of osteopathic medicine in the United States and has become a leader in the health sciences. This medical school program gives Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degrees to aspiring physicians. Five interview slots are reserved every year for our MSMS graduates. Established in 1892, ATSU focuses on whole-person health and service to underserved communities as part of its mission.
Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU)
PHSU is a US regionally accredited health sciences university with a focus on delivering bilingual (English/Spanish), culturally-competent medical education. SCU guarantees that the top 20% of the graduating class is offered an interview for the MD program at Ponce Health Sciences University. With locations in St. Louis and in Ponce, Puerto Rico, PHSU requires admitted students to demonstrate competency in Spanish for the Puerto Rico campus.
Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM)
Founded in 1978, RUSM has prepared students for successful careers in medicine for over 40 years. Ross students are eligible to take all United States Medical License Examinations (USMLE) by registering with the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). Ross graduates are eligible to apply for licensure in all states in the United States. Students who completed the MSMS program are guaranteed an interview if they had an undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher. Eligible individuals accepted into Ross will also qualify for the SCU Partner Scholarship of either $10,000 or $7,500 dependent upon the student’s undergraduate GPA. Learn about the RUSM interview and scholarship.
The SCU Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) program offers a Post-MSMS Fellowship/Moderator program allowing two SCU MSMS students to apply for the 11-month fellowship, including moderator activities. The MSMS Fellowship is a part-time position allowing Fellows to receive further education, research experience, and professional academia experience as MSMS Moderators.
With a growing population, one of the greatest challenges is ensuring that healthcare we receive is at the best possible quality for all across all dimensions of society – across all genders, ages, races, and ethnicities and socioeconomic levels.
The MSMS Fellowship/Moderator program is based on an interdisciplinary, integrative healthcare model looking at whole-person care, including healthcare practice from the communities where we live, impact of disease based on the lifestyles we practice such as the food we eat, the transportation we depend on to access healthcare facilities, and the community health services we receive. Success in the interdisciplinary healthcare team will require the translation of high quality and high impact science and practical clinical experience into sound health policy. The goal of the MSMS Fellows/Moderator Program is to provide MSMS students with increased opportunities, experience and skills necessary to help lead this effort, and in so doing, shape a healthy and productive future for all.
The MSMS Fellowship has an emphasis on teaching courses and conducting research and provides funding for both coursework and extracurricular projects.
Moderator responsibilities include ensuring efficiency in the learning experience for current MSMS students. The MSMS program is fully online. Moderators will attend online classes with MSMS and relay any feedback they may have to the faculty and staff so that necessary changes or adjustments can be made to improve the online learning environment. Moderators ensure that MSMS students have a successful experience as they progress throughout the program, tailoring the experience to meet the needs of students, provide effective communication, and enhance the learning environment for both students and faculty.
Fellows also provide tutoring to MSMS students in all content covered throughout the duration of the program, and help guide students in creating timelines for applying to health professions programs.
The MSMS Fellowship/Moderator program follows an 11-month MSMS hybrid term schedule. The Fellowship begins in the Fall Term and concludes at the end of the Summer Term.
The Post-MSMS Fellowship/Moderator positions are remote. Fellows may report to the SCU campus, as needed. There may be travel to events and conferences, as needed.
The SCU MSMS Fellows are selected based on their potential to make a positive, long-lasting contribution to their academic discipline.
Fellows/Moderators are selected each year through a competitive application process based on their commitment to health education and issues, leadership potential, and interest. Fellows/Moderators should have experience in education, including teaching experience working with diverse student populations. The fellowship requires excellent written and oral communication skills, excellent presentation skills, and the ability to communicate at all levels with tact and diplomacy to achieve goals.
The fellowship has a broad interdisciplinary focus; therefore follows/moderators will have the ability to work across all areas of a complex organization and must demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff and students on health science education and research.
Only SCU MSMS students who will be completing their MSMS program are eligible to apply. Interested MSMS students should apply for the fellowship during the last term of their MSMS program, or soon after graduation.
The program seeks to achieve racial, ethnic, gender, and discipline diversity. Candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or its territories who have career plans that anticipate continued work in the U.S. after the fellowship period.
Andy Shollar, SCU Class of 2022 MSMS graduate, is a 2023 MSMS Fellow. Prior to earning her MSMS degree from SCU, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of South Florida. “My career goal has always been to pursue medicine as a physician. I am currently applying to medical schools this application cycle and hope to begin my journey towards becoming a physician this upcoming Fall. However, throughout undergrad, and in my current role as an MSMS Fellow, I have always found myself leading others from an educational standpoint. I want to integrate my passion for education and medicine by eventually going into academic medicine so that I can pass on my knowledge and experiences to others that wish to follow the same path as me.”
“Both the SCU MSMS Fellowship and the RAND research experiences have, and continue, to set me up to be a strong leader in my community,” said Andy. “Working with faculty and students over several multidisciplinary institutions has shown me when I need to step up and help guide others in the right direction, versus taking a step back to evaluate and ask questions. Skills like these are invaluable in the field of medicine because physicians are typically the leaders of healthcare teams. My exposure to this kind of environment through my leadership role is an opportunity that puts me in a position to be prepared for when I have patients and colleagues to both guide and listen to, on multiple fronts.”
Tiesha Tyson, SCU Class of 2021 MSMS graduate, is a 2023 MSMS Fellow. Prior to earning her MSMS degree from SCU in 2021, Tiesha earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina. “My goal is to become a doctor, preferably a General Surgeon or Forensic Pathologist,” she said.
“The Fellowship is opening so many doors and opportunities such as working with the faculty who taught us, working with and learning from the RAND Center, and having a role in creating an effective MSMS program at SCU,” said Tiesha. “RAND is a great opportunity to further my research skills while collaborating with wonderful people from various backgrounds. This is a wonderful opportunity to see and be involved with research led by heavy hitters in the field.”
Read more about the 2023 MSMS Fellows and their experiences:
For questions or additional information, contact Raheleh Khorsan, Ph.D., Program Director, MSMS, at rahelehkhorsan@scuhs.edu.
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has announced a new partnership with A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) to expand access to education for aspiring physicians looking to earn a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. Through this partnership, five annual interview slots are reserved for SCU students who graduate from the Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) program for consideration of acceptance to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree program at A.T. Still University. The two-year agreement began in January 2023 and will be reviewed every two years.
Since 2021, the Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) degree program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has partnered with the RAND Center for Collaborative Research in Complementary and Integrative Health.
SCU is currently one of 13 of the RAND Center’s member institutions who have a commitment to research and train Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) professions.
Andy Shollar, SCU Class of 2022 MSMS graduate and Tiesha Tyson, SCU Class of 2021 MSMS graduate, are working together on a RAND Center research project involving production of a State of the Science review on homeopathic healthcare practices.
The Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) degree program at SCU held its first annual awards program just ahead of the Class of 2022 Commencement Ceremony in December.
Elections were recently held for the 2023 SCU ASB Executive Board (E-board) annual student leadership positions, including President, Vice President, CCO Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and Community Liaison.
Congratulations to the following elected student leaders for 2023 who will serve a one-year term beginning Jan. 2023, through Dec. 2023.
President: Joanna Quintana (top left)
Vice President: Tim Schrijver (top middle)
Secretary: Kristeen Shamas (top right)
Treasurer: Eira Perez (bottom left)
Community Liaison: Madison Park (bottom middle)
CCO Chair: John Krueger (bottom right)
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You wouldn’t be looking at this program if you weren’t interested in preparing yourself for a successful medical career. Your dedication and enthusiasm for enhancing your academic credentials makes you the perfect fit for SCU. Now begin to discover why we’re the perfect fit for you.
Our approach to Interprofessional Education is unique in California and across the country. Here, modern medicine unites with ancient and traditional healing arts to create an environment of engagement. SCU’s groundbreaking IPE model combines curriculum, clinic, community, and clubs to help you develop a broader base of knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for different perspectives on care which leads to a seamless transition from student to practitioner.
We bring together aspiring students from different disciplines so you can learn and excel side-by-side. The depth and breadth of this dynamic experience will prepare you to one day take the lead in a collaborative, interprofessional practice.
View our application requirements above or fill out a request for information to start speaking with an enrollment advisor today.
Students at SCU have many financial assistance opportunities available to them in order to cover their educational expenses. It is the policy of the Financial Aid Office to assist our students as much as possible to afford their education. Talk with a financial counselor by calling (562) 947-8755 ext 766 or click here to learn more.
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