Your Path from CSU to Medical School

Seeking to provide access to high-quality medical education, KGI and the California State University (CSU) system are creating a pipeline for qualified CSU graduates to enter the two-year online Master of Science in Community Medicine (MSCM) program.

The MSCM program will prepare you for application to medical school, or to work as a community medicine leader in underserved and underrepresented communities.

KGI is recruiting local students who come from the communities with the greatest needs. We will give preference to:

• First-generation college students from the CSU system
• CSU graduates who are dedicated to working in underserved or underrepresented communities

The MSCM program is on the cutting edge of community medicine; the first cohort will receive full tuition waivers—and, in turn—will help to shape the program and curriculum for future cohorts.

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Your path to medical school

• For those pursuing medical school, the MSCM program has established – through its Council of Medical School Deans – close links to the following medical schools:
  • College of Medicine at Charles R. Drew University
  • Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
  • Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
  • Meharry Medical College
  • NYU Long Island School of Medicine
  • Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine
  • Roseman University College of Medicine
  • Texas Christian University and UNT Health Science Center School of Medicine
  • University of Kansas School of Medicine
• When the KGI School of Medicine begins to enroll students, the pathway will also include acceptance options from the MSCM program into KGI’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) program.

More about the MSCM program

The 54-credit MSCM program prepares students as skilled community medicine practitioners to work in the safety net community clinics, federally qualified health centers, public health departments, healthcare systems, non-governmental organizations, and industries that serve those communities.

All courses are taught entirely online, with real-world, community-based experiences occurring in the student’s geographical location.

In the first year, students take courses to build their knowledge foundation and complete a capstone learning experience. Based on whether the student wants to pursue employment following graduation or continue onto medical school, relevant electives will be offered. Students complete an additional two foundational courses in the second year and apply their mastered knowledge to real-life experiences with a second capstone project. Learn more about the curriculum.

What can I do with this degree?

After graduating with an MSCM degree, students are qualified to enter the workforce directly or seek further training as physicians or other health professionals.

Top potential occupations (entering the workforce directly):

• Public health advisor
• Epidemiologist
• Medical administrator
• Health director
• Biostatistician
• Healthcare educator
• Environmental Scientist

Top potential occupations (after additional professional training):

• Physician
• Dentist
• Physician assistant
• Pharmacist
• Other health professional

Download the Program Info Sheet

FAQ

Will I be responsible for finding my clinical site?

• Yes, you are responsible for finding your own clinical site and it must be approved by KGI faculty. Considering our students will reside in cities across the country, we know that you may have existing connections or interest with sites in your area. If you are unable to find a site, we will help you find a clinical site.

What is the GPA requirement for the program?

• 2.80 or higher

What are the prerequisites for the program?

• There are no prerequisite majors or courses for this program. We are looking to recruit a diverse group of students, regardless of their previous background or coursework. We are focused on admitting students who are dedicated to working in underserved or underrepresented communities.

Accreditation

The MSCM program is in the process of receiving accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Ready for what’s next?

If there’s anything we can do, be sure to connect with our admissions team. You can also check out more information on cost and aid and how to apply. Students who apply are eligible for a fee waiver, which you can get by contacting admissions@kgi.edu.