Office Personnel |Bulletin |Curriculum in Medicine | Tuition and Required Fees | Admission to the Medical Curriculum | Technical Standards | A Commitment to Diversity | Course Requirements | Residency Classification | Admissions Standards and Legal Policy |Medical School Application and Admission Test | Application Deadlines | Early Decision Program | Regular Decision Program | MD/PhD Program | Advanced Standing Transfer | Visiting Students | Evaluation of Applications and Applicants | Directions to UMC | Response to Letter of Acceptance | Base Pair | Health Careers Development Program | Professional Portal Track

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.............................. Cindy B. Turnage. ........................Kim Eaves...........................Peggy M. Davis, M.D. ...............Steven T. Case, Ph.D.............. .......................... ......Medical School Admissions Coordinators...........................Director of Admissions ........Associate Dean, Admissions........

Students who may want to become a doctor should visit the Association of American Medical Colleges' (AAMC) web site, "Considering a Career in Medicine."

Pathway to Medical School outlines medical school education, preparation, useful links, a time line for applying, degree programs offered by this school, the selection process, entering class statistics and some reasons why you should attend the University of Mississippi School of Medicine.

Pre-application counseling is available for prospective applicants and post-application counseling is available for unsuccessful applicants. To make an appointment, call this office at 601-984-5010. After this office confirms an appointment, a student seeking pre-application counseling will be given a password to access an on-line Pre-application Counseling Form on which background information that will be useful during counseling should be submitted.

Email communication with the Admissions Office (AdmitMD@som.umsmed.edu) is encouraged; however, for authentication purposes, an applicant must include two confidential identifiers (such as the last four digits of both an AAMC ID and SSN) by his/her name.

BULLETIN

The content of these web pages and additional information about the University of Mississippi Medical Center are published as a Bulletin. It is available on line at: http://www.umc.edu/bulletin. A hard copy may be requested from:

Division of Student Records and Registrar
University of Mississippi Medical Center
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216-4505
Telephone (601) 984-1080

THE CURRICULUM IN MEDICINE

The purpose of the M.D. Program is to give students of high promise the opportunity to develop the knowledge, clinical skills, and personal qualities of excellent physicians. The fundamentals of medicine are taught by a distinguished faculty in a modern, caring environment.

The curriculum in medicine consists of four academic sessions. During the two preclinical years, students learn the sciences basic to the study of medicine and participate in laboratory exercises, small-group discussion, computer-assisted learning, and independent study. The first year (M1) curriculum was recently revised with the goal of increasing integration, improving the sequencing of course content, and providing earlier clinical experience for medical students in a manner similar to what already occurs in the second year (M2) curriculum. The third year involves full-time clinical exposure as students rotate through the major clinical disciplines and participate in the team care of patients in the University Hospitals and Clinics, Veterans Affairs Medical Center and various community settings. The fourth year consists of eight required calendar month blocks that may be taken anytime during the eleven months available from July through May. Fourth year clinical clerkships provide greater depth of study in a student's anticipated medical specialty. Opportunities are available for review, advanced study and research in the basic science departments and for electives at another institution in this country or abroad.

Students will be certified for graduation after all requirements for graduation are completed, including completion of the Graduation Questionnaire and required technical procedures. All diplomas are awarded at commencement.

TUITI0N AND REQUIRED FEES

On May 18, 2006, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning for the State of Mississippi approved the following tuition increases. Medical school tuition for residents of Mississippi will be $10,649 per year for 2008-2009. This payment includes required registration, laboratory and library usage fees. Tuition for non-residents will be $17,327 per year for 2008-2009. Medical school tuition is assessed in accordance with financial aid disbursement regulations. Health insurance is mandatory. Disability insurance is available. Students registered in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program will pay graduate tuition for graduate hours and prorated clock hours for School of Medicine courses.

ADMISSION TO THE MEDICAL CURRICULUM

The authority to select applicants for admission to the School of Medicine is vested in the Admissions Committee. This committee is chaired by the Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions and composed of members of the basic science and clinical faculty appointed by the Dean of the School of Medicine. No student may enroll for courses in the School of Medicine, either as a regular full-time student or as a special part-time student, without being admitted by the committee.

Correspondence regarding admission (such as requests for counseling and application status updates) should be addressed to:

Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions
University of Mississippi School of Medicine
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216-4505
Telephone (601) 984-5010
Facsimile (601) 984-5008
E-mail AdmitMD@som.umsmed.edu

Letters of Evaluation must be submitted directly to the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS®), Virtual Evals or Interfolio.

Official admissions records (such as transcripts) are handled and filed in the Division of Student Records and Registrar, and become the property of the School of Medicine. They cannot be returned to the applicant or forwarded to another school or individual. Correspondence regarding official records should be addressed to:

Division of Student Records and Registrar
University of Mississippi Medical Center
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216-4505
Telephone (601) 984-1080

Selection of applicants is made on a competitive basis, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, gender, sexual orientation or veteran status. Qualified handicapped students will be considered in relation to the Technical Standards that follow.

TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR ADMISSION, RETENTION, PROMOTION AND CERTIFICATION FOR THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF MEDICINE

Because the M.D. degree awarded to a senior medical student signifies that the holder is prepared for entry into the practice of medicine within postgraduate training programs, it follows that graduates must have the knowledge and skills to function in a broad variety of clinical situations and to render a wide spectrum of patient care. If they are to function in this manner, medical students must have somatic sensation and the functional use of the senses of vision and hearing, and equilibrium. They must have sufficient exteroceptive sense (touch, pain and temperature), sufficient proprioceptive sense (position, pressure, movement, stereognosis and vibratory) and sufficient motor function to perform the activities described in the sections that follow. Students also must be able to consistently, quickly, and accurately integrate all information received by whatever sense(s) and have the intellectual ability to learn, integrate, analyze and synthesize data, and the appropriate behavioral and social skills for patient interaction. Technological compensation can be made for some handicaps in certain of these areas, but the student should be able to perform in a largely independent manner.

Observation - The medical student must be able to observe and participate in demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences, including, but not limited to, physiologic and pharmacologic demonstrations in animals, microbiologic cultures, and microscopic studies of microorganisms and tissues in normal and pathologic states, and anatomical specimens. The student must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand. Observation necessitates the functional use of the senses of vision, hearing, and somatic sensation. It is enhanced by the functional use of the sense of smell.

Communication - A medical student should be able to speak, to hear, and to observe patients in a sensitive manner. A medical student should be able to elicit information, describe changes in the patient's mood, activity and posture, and perceive nonverbal communications. The student also must be able to communicate effectively in oral and written form with all members of the health care team.

Motor - Students should have sufficient motor function to obtain information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion and other diagnostic maneuvers; to do basic laboratory tests; to carry out diagnostic procedures; to read electrocardiograms and radiographs; and to conduct anatomical dissections in the basic sciences and clinical years. A student should be able to execute the motor movements reasonably required to provide general and emergency care to patients. Examples of emergency treatment reasonably required of physicians are cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administration of intravenous medication, application of pressure to stop bleeding, opening of obstructed airways, suturing of simple wounds and performance of simple obstetrical maneuvers. Such actions require coordination of both gross and fine muscular movements, equilibrium and functional use of the senses of touch and vision.

Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities - These abilities include measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, and synthesis. Problem-solving, the critical skill demanded of physicians, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, the student must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationships of structures.

Behavioral and Social Attributes - A student must possess the emotional health required to fully use his or her intellectual abilities; to exercise good judgment; to promptly complete the responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients; and to develop mature, sensitive and appropriate relationships with patients. Students must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be flexible and able to adapt to changing environments, and capable of functioning in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients.

A COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

The University of Mississippi Medical Center's Statement of Purpose (see Medical Center General Information at www.umc.edu) states in part:

The Medical Center offers equal opportunity in all its programs and services regardless of race, sex, color, religion, marital status, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veterans status…Mississippi's population is culturally diverse. Most Mississippians trace their own ancestral roots to the British Isles, the continent of Europe or the continent of Africa. The state also has many citizens of American Indian, Asian or Pacific Island and Hispanic desent. In policy and practice, the institution encourages and actively recruits applicants from all segments of the state's population. The Medical Center is committed to maintaining an educational environment that fosters respect for and sensitivity to individual differences; promotes personal and professional development; and gives all students the opportunity to succeed, regardless of ethnicity, gender or socio-economic status.

The University of Mississippi School of Medicine adheres to this mission statement to assure the diversity of the school's student body. Mississippi's largest minority population is African-American. To aid in the recruitment of these young Mississippians, the School of Medicine offers six scholarships covering tuition, fees, books and most monthly living allowances, to first-year students. The scholarship is renewable annually if the recipient remains in good academic standing. Recipients must commit to reside and practice in Mississippi for five years.

Additionally:

• The Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions and representatives from the Division of Multicultural Affairs routinely recruit on the state's historically black campuses--as well as those which are majority white.

• The Division of Multicultural Affairs, established in 1973, also coordinates programs that address the needs of students who are underrepresented in the student body, and/or from disadvantaged groups and/or rural or medically underserved counties. Programs range from those which encourage junior high and senior high students to go into the health professions to workshops on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) and a formal summer program, which provides educational reinforcement for college-level students and accepted first-year medical students prior to their fall enrollment.

• The Division of Multicultural Affairs provides a pool of tutors year-round at no charge to assist any student who finds the professional learning environment challenging.

• The Office of Academic Counseling also works with students on an individual (or group) basis to help them maximize their academic potential through programs designed to meet the student's special learning needs.

• The Medical Center's chapter of the Minority Student Health Professional Association sponsors social and educational enrichment activities for minority students throughout the academic session to give members the opportunity to interact with role models. The Student National Medical Association conducts a program of monthly meetings for local high school students to stimulate, encourage and guide them toward health professional careers.

For more information on these scholarships and programs, contact the Division of Multicultural Affairs (601-984-1340), University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Students, in consultation with a premedical adviser, should develop proficiency in a specific major area of study while in undergraduate school and acquire a background in the humanities and social sciences. Non-science majors with an interest in medicine are encouraged to apply.

Course credits are acceptable from only accredited U.S. colleges and universities. The applicant must show credit for at least three years of college work, totaling not fewer than 90 acceptable semester hours (excluding unacceptable courses described below), completed in an accredited college. These minimum 90 hours consist of courses required for entrance to this medical school and other courses (referred to here as electives) required by an undergraduate institution for a baccalaureate degree. Strong preference is given to applicants who will have completed all requirements for a baccalaureate degree prior to entering medical school. A maximum of 65 semester hours of credit from an accredited community college may be applied toward the minimum 90 acceptable semester hours required for admission.

Required courses include one academic year each of four core science courses with laboratories (biological science, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics) plus one year each of mathematics, English, and advanced science.

All required courses must have a college grade; therefore, advanced placement credit cannot meet these requirements. If an applicant has advanced placement credit for any required course, he/she can fulfill the requirement by taking either that course for a grade or a higher-level course in the same department for a grade. The minimum 90 acceptable semester hours will be completed by other course work (such as approved electives described below).

When evaluating course work, the Admissions Committee focuses on courses that contribute to the biology, chemistry, physics and math (BCPM) grade point average (GPA) calculated in the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS®) application. Courses that contribute to the BCPM GPA are determined by AMCAS® course classification; however, when determining whether or not a science or math course will be acceptable as a prerequisite for this medical school, Student Records and Registrar examines the course number for a relevant prefix (such as BIOL, CHEM, PHYS or MATH). Required core science, advanced science and math courses must be taken in either science or math departments; thus, courses with either a related name or BCPM course classification but with a course number that contains another prefix (including but not limited to BESS, CLS, COMP, ENGI, HEAL, MEDC, NPSC, PHARM, PHCL) are not acceptable as requirements for entrance to this medical school.

There is no time limit on the validity of a baccalaureate degree; however, the Admissions Committee has concerns when prerequisite courses have been taken 10 or more years ago. If a required core science course was taken 10 or more years ago, it should be repeated. If all required core science courses were taken 10 or more years ago, the applicant should take at least 32 semester hours of BCPM course work to convince the committee that they are currently capable of sustaining the rigors of learning in a classroom environment. Such applicants are encouraged to retake the required core science courses; however, this may be substituted by either 32 credits of upper level undergraduate BCPM courses beyond the advanced science requirement (see below) or 32 credits of graduate BCPM courses. In the evaluation of applicants of applicants for interviews, the Admissions Committee considers only those courses that contribute to an undergraduate BCPM GPA.

Required Core Sciences - Required courses in biological science, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics must be taken in science departments (course number prefix must be BIOL, CHEM, or PHYS) and include formal laboratory work. If a department spreads the content of a typical two-semester required science course over three semesters, students enrolled at that institution must take all three semesters to satisfy the course requirement. The advanced science courses (see below) must be taken in a senior college.

Mathematics - A minimum of three semester hours of college algebra and three semester hours of trigonometry is required. A two-semester course, including algebra, trigonometry, analytical geometry and calculus, also is acceptable. Students who qualify by placement tests to enter calculus I directly can satisfy their mathematics requirement with a three- or four-hour calculus I course; the remaining two or three hours required to meet the 90 hour minimum may be met with a recommended elective course.

English - The usual freshman college course of six semester hours in English composition or literature is required. The applicant is urged to take an advanced course in English composition.

Required Advanced Science - These courses must be taken at a senior college science or math department (course number prefix must be either BIOL, CHEM, PHYS or MATH). Examples of advanced science courses that are relevant to medical school are comparative anatomy, embryology, genetics, histology, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, quantitative analysis, physical chemistry, calculus II, III or IV, differential equations and advanced physics. It is recognized that laboratories are not offered with all advanced sciences.

Approved Elective Courses - A partial list of recommended elective courses includes advanced English, sociology, psychology, philosophy, history, geography, foreign language, computer science, fine arts (up to six semester hours) and selected advanced courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology.

Unacceptable Courses - None of the 90 semester hours of minimum collegiate requirements listed or described or recommended above may be met by the following: correspondence courses; courses in physical training, military science, or dogmatic religion; courses in mathematics or science designed for non-science majors; or course credit granted without college-level testing. A limited number of telecourse credits may be accepted for liberal arts electives; however, none will be accepted for required science and math courses. Courses taken outside science and math departments (course prefix other than BIOL, CHEM, PHYS or MATH) are not acceptable as required courses.

Credit Transferred from a Community College - Sixty-five semester hours of credit from an accredited community college is the maximum that may be applied toward minimum 90 acceptable semester hours required for admission.

Completion of Degrees- An applicant enrolled in a degree-granting program at any college or university is expected to complete the requirements for and earn that degree before enrollment in medical school. Unless prior approval has been granted by the admissions committee, this applies to both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Conditional Acceptance- Acceptance to this medical school is conditional; the Admissions Committee may rescind an offer of acceptance at any time before matriculation if an applicant fails to maintain expectations upon which the acceptance was based including failure to complete medical school prerequisites or other course work or degrees in progress.

RESIDENCY CLASSIFICATION

The Division of Student Records and Registrar is responsible for determining whether an applicant meets the requirements for being a legal resident of Mississippi for the purpose of enrollment, based on Admissions Standards and Legal Policy. When requested, applicants must complete a Request for Review of Residency Classification form and provide copies of a driver's license, car registration, car tag, voter registration card, proof of in-state banking and proof of a permanent in-state domicile.

ADMISSIONS STANDARDS AND LEGAL POLICY

Preference is given to applicants who are legal residents of Mississippi. In recent years, it has not been possible to admit nonresidents. The criteria for legal residency listed below are taken from the By-laws and Policies of the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning, State of Mississippi.

I Admission to and attendance in all institutions of higher learning under the jurisdiction of this Board is a benefaction of the law, and any person seeking such privilege through attendance at any of the state institutions of higher learning must comply with such conditions as may be imposed by the Board of Trustees. The executive officer of each institution is authorized to admit a student who meets all requirements, or permit a student to continue in attendance at any institution, when in his or her judgment such student may reasonably be expected to profit from attendance at the institution and when such attendance may be expected to contribute to the welfare of the institution and the state.

II Every person seeking to attend a state institution of higher learning in Mississippi must make application according to regulations adopted by the Board of Trustees. Such regulations may be revised or changed by the institution or the Board of Trustees at any time without notice. Any application submitted must state the admission period sought and may be acted upon for the stated period only and cannot be considered a continuing application. In the event an application is denied or an applicant is not admitted upon said application, a new application is required for subsequent consideration at the same or any later term.

III The Medical Center applies the definitions and conditions stated here as required by state law in the classification of students as residents or nonresidents. Requests for a review of residency classification should be submitted to the Registrar; forms for this purpose are available from the Registrar's office.

IV The application of a nonresident of the State of Mississippi may be considered or not at the option of the executive officer of the institution. The definitions and conditions governing the resident status of applicants for admission to any of the institutions shall be as follows:

A. Residence of a minor - The residence of a person less than twenty-one (21) years of age is that of the father. After the death of the father, the residence of the minor is that of the mother. If the parents are divorced, the residence of the minor is that of the parent who was granted custody by the court; or, if custody was not granted, the residence continues to be that of the father. If both parents are dead, the residence of the minor is that of the last surviving parent at the time of that parent's death, unless the minor lives with a legal guardian of his person, duly appointed by a proper court of Mississippi, in which case his residence becomes that of the guardian.

B. Residence of an adult - The residence of an adult is that place where he is domiciled, that is, the place where he actually physically resides with the intention of remaining there indefinitely or of returning there permanently when temporarily absent.

C. Removal of parents from Mississippi - If the parents of a minor who is enrolled as a student in an institution of higher learning move their legal residence from the State of Mississippi, the minor is immediately classified as a nonresident student.

D. Twelve months of residence required - No student may be admitted to any institution of higher learning as a resident of Mississippi unless his residence, as defined herein above, has been in the State of Mississippi for a continuous period of at least twelve months immediately preceding his admission.

E. Nonresident may petition institution for change of residency classification - A person who enters the State of Mississippi from another state and enters an educational institution is considered a nonresident. Provided, however, that any person who has attained twenty-one (21) years of age and has thereafter actually established residency and resided within the State of Mississippi for twelve (12) consecutive months after attaining twenty-one (21) years of age upon sworn affidavit and other representation, may petition the particular institution for a change in residency classification for the purposes of fees and tuition assessment.
1 - The institution may make reasonable inquiry into the validity of the petitioner's claim.
2 - Such petition for change of residency must be made on or before the last day a student may register at the particular institution without penalty.

F. Residence status of a married person - A married person may claim the residence of his/her spouse.

G. Children of parents who are members of the faculty or staff of institutions of higher learning - Children of parents who are members of the faculty or staff of any institution under the jurisdiction of the Board of Trustees may be classified as residents without regard to the residence requirement of twelve (12) months for the purpose of attendance at the institution where their parents are faculty or staff members.

H. Military personnel assigned an active duty station in Mississippi - Members of the armed forces on extended active duty and stationed within the State of Mississippi, except those military personnel whose active duty assignment in the State of Mississippi for educational purposes, may be classified as residents, without regard to the residence requirement of twelve (12) months, for the purpose of attendance of state-supported institutions of higher learning and junior colleges of the State of Mississippi. Resident status of such military personnel who are not legal residents of Mississippi, as defined under "Residence of an adult' in paragraph III, B above, shall terminate upon their reassignment for duty in the continental United States outside the State of Mississippi.

I. Children of military personnel - Resident status of children of members of the Armed Forces on extended active duty shall be that of the military parent for the purpose of attending state-supported institutions of higher learning and junior colleges of the State of Mississippi during the time that their military parents are stationed within the State of Mississippi and shall be continued through the time that military parents are stationed in an overseas area with last duty assignment in the State of Mississippi, excepting temporary training assignments en route from Mississippi. Resident status of minor children shall terminate upon reassignment under Permanent Change of Station Orders for their military parents for duty in the continental United States outside the State of Mississippi, excepting temporary training assignments en route from Mississippi.

J. Certification of residence of military personnel - A military person on active duty stationed in Mississippi who wishes to avail himself or his dependents of the provisions of paragraph H, must submit a certificate from his military organization showing the name of the military member; the name of the dependent, if for a dependent; the name of the organization of assignment and its address (may not be in the letterhead); that the military member will be on active duty stationed in Mississippi on the date of registration at the state-supported institution of higher learning or junior college of the state of Mississippi; that the military member is not on transfer orders; and the signature of the Commanding Officer, the Adjutant, or the Personnel Officer of the unit of assignment with signer's rank and title. A military certificate must be presented to the registrar of the state-supported institution of higher learning or junior college of the state of Mississippi each semester or tri-semester at (or within ten days prior to) registration each semester for the provisions of paragraph H above hereof to be effective.

K. Legal residency of a foreign student - Students with permanent immigrant status or refugee status can establish residence in the state by meeting the provisions of Mississippi Statute. The responsibility for registering under his/her proper residence status is placed upon the student. Students failing to do so may be subjected to administrative action which will terminate their attendance at the state-supported institution of higher learning concerned.

MEDICAL SCHOOL APPLICATION AND ADMISSIONS TEST

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) web page for student services (www.aamc.org/students) provides valuable information on medical schools and electronic access to the following.

American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS®) Applications - All applications must be made through AMCAS®, a nonprofit, centralized application processing service for applicants to the first-year entering classes at participating U.S. medical schools. The AMCAS® application is available only on line at http://www.aamc.org/students/amcas/start.htm . Further information may be obtained by writing to the American Medical College Application Service, 2501 M Street, NW, Lbby-26, Washington, DC 20037-1300 or by e-mail: amcas@aamc.org

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT®) - All applicants for admission to the School of Medicine must take the MCAT®. The test is 1) computer-based, 2) offered at specific test sites only and 3) offered multiple times each year. By following a well-planned schedule, the premedical student should be ready to take the test no later than the spring of the junior year and release scores to all schools to which they intend to apply. Selection of applicants for the medical school class entering in a given calendar year will be based, in part, on MCAT® scores acquired during the previous four calendar years only. Selection of alternates may include consideration of MCAT® scores acquired in the same calendar year.

MCAT® information (including test sites, registration deadlines and testing dates) and registration may be accessed on-line: http://www.aamc.org/students/mcat/ . This information can also be acquired from most college premedical advisers or writing to The MCAT® Program Office, P.O. Box 4056, Iowa City, Iowa 52243-4046.

Fee Assistance Program (FAP) - The AAMC Fee Assistance Program (FAP) is designed to be used in conjunction with registration for the MCAT® and/or for application to medical school through AMCAS®. The FAP is provided to assist individuals with extreme financial limitations whose inability to pay the full MCAT® registration fee or the AMCAS® application fee would prevent them from taking the examination or applying to medical school. Further information and the FAP application are at http://www.aamc.org/students/applying/fap/start.htm. The supplemental application fee for this medical school will be refunded for applicants who are approved for FAP.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

The tables below summarize dates for submitting required documentation to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the University Medical Center (UMC). Details for the Early Decision Program (EDP), Regular Decision Program (RDP) and Combined M.D./Ph.D. Program follow.

Applicants should submit all documents as early as possible and well ahead of deadlines. Applicants alone are solely responsible for ensuring all required documents reach the appropriate offices by the specified deadlines. An applicant file lacking any item on the specified deadline will be considered incomplete and ineligible for consideration for admission. The Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions may, for good cause shown, grant individual deadline extensions if the applicant can document that circumstances beyond his/her control were encountered that prevented timely arrival of required documentation.

To monitor timely document receipt, an applicant should

• Contact AAMC to confirm his/her AMCAS® application is complete and transcripts for all college course work have been received.
• Access the School of Medicine's restricted Secondary Application System to confirm that the secondary application, supplemental application fee, transcripts for all college course work and required faculty Letters of Evaluation have been received. An applicant's file for this medical school is not considered complete until all of these items have been received. Due to the volume of material received, anticipate a few days delay between receipt and posting of information to this site.
  • For questions pertaining to transcripts, contact Student Records and Registrar.
  • For everything else, contact the Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions.

Dates for EDP -

Dates for RDP -

¹ A complete set of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate transcripts must be mailed to:

American Medical College Application Service
2501 M Street, NW, Lbby-26
Washington, DC 20037-1300
E-mail: amcas@aamc.org

² An additional set of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate transcripts must be mailed to:

Division of Student Records and Registrar
University of Mississipppi Medical Center
2500 North State Street
Jackson, MS 39216-4505
Telephone (601) 984-1080

³ Access to UMC's web-based Secondary Application System is restricted. A nonrefundable supplemental application fee of $50 for residents and $100 for nonresidents is required.

⁴ Note important procedural changes for Letters of Evaluation beginning with the 2009 application cycle.

EARLY DECISION PROGRAM (EDP)

Students interested in early acceptance may apply for admission under the EDP. Two important aspects of the EDP should be understood: (1) the applicant can apply to only the one school of choice until a decision is received and, if accepted, must attend that school; (2) if not accepted under the EDP, the applicant will automatically be reconsidered as an RDP applicant by that school and may then apply to other schools. Since EDP decisions are rendered before most RDP applications are reviewed, only above average applicants are competitive for the EDP. The typical entering class at this medical school has an undergraduate biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics (BCPM) cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.6 and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT®) scores that average 9 in verbal reasoning, physical science and biological science.

Both AMCAS® and UMC require receipt of specific documents by specified deadlines summarized above. Applicants wishing to apply for the EDP must submit a web-based AMCAS® application and transcripts of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate work to AAMC between June 1 and August 1. In addition, by September 15, EDP applicants must submit a web-based Secondary Application to UMC, transcripts of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate work to the Division of Student Records and Registrar and three faculty Letters of Evaluation. A final decision on EDP applications will be rendered on or before October 1.

REGULAR DECISION PROGRAM (RDP)

Students may simultaneously apply for admission to multiple medical schools under the RDP. Both AMCAS® and UMC require receipt of specific documents by specified deadlines summarized above. Applicants wishing to apply for the RDP may begin on June 1 and must submit a web-based AMCAS® application by October 15 and transcripts of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate work to AAMC by October 29. In addition, by December 1, RDP applicants must submit a web-based Secondary Application to UMC, transcripts of all undergraduate and post-baccalaureate work to the Division of Student Records and Registrar and three faculty Letters of Evaluation. Applicants accepted for admission under the RDP will be notified on a rolling basis between October 16 and March 15; all other decisions will also be rendered by March 15. Applicants who hold multiple acceptances must inform this school of their decision by May 15.

COMBINED DOCTOR OF MEDICINE (M.D.)/DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Ph.D.) PROGRAM

A combined M.D./Ph.D. program is offered to highly qualified students by the School of Medicine in collaboration with the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences. The program is designed primarily to train physician scientists who seek a professional career combining clinical skills and research. For this combined program, the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is offered in the health sciences programs. Students interested in pursuing the combined M.D./Ph.D. program must complete all medical school application materials. In addition, applicants must: list under "Experiences" in their AMCAS® application all relevant research experience and research presentations, submit Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores and submit at least one supplemental faculty Letters of Evaluation from someone able to evaluate the applicant's research potential. Applicants to the M.D./Ph.D. program must adhere to RDP deadlines.

Applicants to this combined degree program must be sequentially accepted for admission by the admissions committees of both the School of Medicine and School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences.

The combined M.D./Ph.D. program is a seven-year program. During the first two years, the student is enrolled respectively in the freshman and sophomore medical courses. During the next three years, the student is enrolled in courses required by a relevant graduate program in the biomedical sciences, which are listed under the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences, and performs independent scientific research leading to the successful defense of a Ph.D. dissertation. During the final two years, the student is enrolled for the junior and senior medical courses.

A limited number of stipends are available for students enrolled in this combined degree program. Competitive scholarships may also be available which offer a waiver of both medical and graduate school tuition.

It is also possible for first or second year medical students not currently in the M.D./Ph.D. program to pursue an M.D./Ph.D. degree. Interested students should contact the graduate program director of a specific program about the possibility of pursuing a Ph.D. degree in that program, before applying to graduate school

ADVANCED STANDING TRANSFER

Applications for admission to advanced standing in levels up to the beginning of the junior year in the University of Mississippi School of Medicine are considered by the Admissions Committee. Prior to Admissions Committee deliberations, the Associate Deans for Admissions, Student Affairs and Academic Affairs consult with the Dean of the School of Medicine who determines whether or not space exists within the pertinent medical school class. This process ensures that adequate resources exist so that the training of currently enrolled students will not be adversely affected.

Advanced standing applicants must be currently enrolled and in good academic standing at a Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME)- accredited U.S. medical school and strong preference is given to those who fulfill Mississippi residency requirements (see Admissions Standards and Legal Policy). The applicant will be required to submit evidence of withdrawal in good standing from the LCME accredited medical school previously attended and a validated transcript of the work completed at that school. The applicant's undergraduate biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics (BCPM) cumulative grade point average (GPA) and Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) scores must be competitive with those of the class he/she seeks to enter. If the applicant's previous medical coursework is incompatible with the curriculum or schedules in this school, the applicant may be asked to complete a required course(s) before being accepted to transfer or the applicant may be accepted to a lower level of advanced standing and be required to complete a particular course(s) before proceeding with the next academic year. No student will be admitted to advanced standing if there is a condition or failure in any subject or if the applicant is not in good standing at the medical school from which he wishes to transfer. For a student applying for transfer to the junior year, receipt of the student's official transcript from the National Board of Medical Examiners demonstrating a passing score on United States Medical Licensure Examination Step 1 is a requirement for admission to, and for initiating, the junior year in this school.

A prospective applicant for transfer should email (AdmitMD@som.umsmed.edu) or write the Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, for information concerning applications. The completed application must be returned to this address by March 31.

VISITING STUDENTS

Senior medical students who are enrolled in good standing in an LCME-accredited school, or an American Osteopathic Association (AOA)-accredited school, in the U.S. or Canada and who are formally approved by their parent school can be offered a senior elective in this School of Medicine. The Registrar's Office verifies the credentials of visiting senior medical students, formally registers them, and maintains a roster of these students.

Prior to accepting an application for a visiting student clerkship, the Associate Deans for Student Affairs and Academic Affairs consult with departmental chairman and the Dean of the School of Medicine who determines whether or not space exists within the pertinent elective course. This process ensures that adequate resources exist so that the training of currently enrolled students will not be adversely affected.

Verification of credentials for prospective visiting students is part of the application form for the extramural block. Visiting students from other schools for clinical clerkships and electives must possess qualifications equivalent to students in this medical school. Approval by the chairman of the appropriate department and by the dean of the parent LCME-accredited or AOA-accredited school, as well as verification of professional liability insurance coverage for the visiting student, is required. An imprint of the parent school's seal on the application is also required. The Registrar, in consultation with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs, screens applications to ascertain that applicants are enrolled in good standing in LCME- or AOA-accredited U.S./Canadian medical schools, that applicants are (or will be) senior medical students, and that applicants have been granted approval by their school. Final acceptance of the applicant, on a space available basis, for a senior elective in our program is vested in the department.

Evaluations of visiting students are provided to their parent schools by the respective departments offering the electives. Health services are available to visiting students through Student-Employee Health and the University Hospital. The liability insurance policy for our students provides coverage for visiting senior medical students; however, if visiting students have liability insurance coverage in effect through their parent schools, our student policy then provides only secondary coverage for them.

Prospective visiting students should write the Division of Student Records and Registrar, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505 for information and an application.

EVALUATION OF APPLICATIONS AND APPLICANTS

Email communication with the Admission Office (AdmitMD@som.umsmed.edu) and Registrar's Office (elpeace@registrar.umsmed.edu) is encouraged; however, for authentication purposes, an applicant must include two confidential identifiers (such as the last four digits of both an AAMC ID and SSN) by his/her name.

Primary evaluation - The first evaluation of applications is based on residency. Strong preference is given to applicants who are legal residents of Mississippi; in recent years, nonresidents have not been admitted. Residency determination is not based solely on information provided in an AMCAS® application; it is based on information provided in the UMC Secondary Application and, when requested, a Request for Review of Residency Classification form and supporting documentation. Questions regarding residency classification should be addressed to the Division of Student Records and Registrar.

Secondary evaluation - The second evaluation is based on two factors. First, the scholastic record in courses preparatory for the medical school curriculum. This is summarized as the applicant's undergraduate biology, chemistry, physics and math (BCPM) cumulative grade point average (GPA). It is recommended that students receive a grade in required premedical science courses and avoid those courses established on a pass-fail basis. Academic averages are calculated on a four-point basis. If a course is repeated, both grades are used in calculating the average. The second and equal factor is scores reported for the applicant's performance on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT®). Students must take the MCAT® and release score reports to UMC. Selection of applicants for the medical school class entering in a given calendar year will be based, in part, on MCAT® scores acquired during the previous four calendar years only. Selection of alternates may include consideration of MCAT® scores acquired in the same calendar year. Emphasis is placed on numerical MCAT® scores in verbal reasoning, biological sciences and physical sciences.

Interviews - Those applicants for whom the secondary evaluation indicates the scholastic competency necessary to pursue successfully the course of study required of students in the School of Medicine are invited for interviews provided that a completed Secondary Application has been submitted and the Supplemental Fee has been paid. Three Admission Committee members interview each applicant. All Admissions Committee members serve as interviewers. The purpose of the interviews is to assess the following non-cognitive variables independent of academic credentials.

• Communication, listening and relational skills: speech; body language; eye contact; the ability to articulate ideas and opinions; clarity of expression; the ability to listen sufficiently well enough to ask questions; ability to relate personal experiences.
• Motivation for medicine: the who, what, when, where, and why of an applicant's desire for medicine as a career; alternate career plans.
• Critical thinking/problem solving/decision making: the ability to analyze a situation, consider the available facts, and derive a logical conclusion.
• Honesty/integrity: consistent regard for highest standards of behavior.
• Maturity: self-reliance, ability to make decisions and respond to circumstances or environment in an appropriate manner. The ability to control emotions, to find solutions to problems, to have a sense of responsibility; the probability that applicant can live and function away from home.
• Accountability/reliability: fulfilling implied contracts, persistence and determination in pursuing goals.
• Altruism/compassion/empathy: commitment to service and the ability to draw satisfaction from working with others; placing others' interests above self; kindness, sympathy towards others; social interests.
• Awareness of ethics/values: sense of right/wrong; ability to act in the best interest of others; respect others' autonomy, preserve dignity, recognize and avoid conflicts of interest.
• Excellence: efforts to exceed ordinary expectations.
• Self appraisal: recognize personal strengths/weaknesses; goals and commitment to self-improvement.
• Respect for others: tolerance; the ability to relate to others in a nonjudgmental manner, appreciation for race/culture/gender differences.

No applicant is accepted until interviewed by members of the Admissions Committee. Guidelines for selecting interviewees are established by the Medical School Admissions Committee. Applicants should not present themselves for interviews until requested to do so by the Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions.

Applicants whom the Admissions Committee selects are notified to contact the Admissions Office to schedule their interview. Interviews are generally conducted from September through February on Tuesdays and Thursdays (see schedule below). Interviews consist of three one-on-one discussions with members of the Admissions Committee. Applicants will be provided lunch and a tour of UMC guided by medical students. Because of the tour, applicants should wear comfortable shoes and allow approximately five hours for completion of the interview process.

Interviews Conducted on Tuesdays and Thursdays

Effective July 1, 2004, Section 37-29-232 of the Mississippi Code requires that students enrolled in a healthcare professional academic program undergo fingerprinting and a criminal background check before any clinical rotation in a licensed healthcare facility may occur. Any preadmission agreement executed by the healthcare program with a student shall be void if there is a disqualifying incident or pattern of unprofessional behavior in the criminal background check. Since clinical rotations are an integral part of the education of medical students at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, all medical school applicants will be fingerprinted at the conclusion of interviews and criminal background checks will be initiated. The steps involved in evaluating a criminal background history are described in the School of Medicine Procedures for Criminal Background Checks.

Independent of criminal background checks based on finger prints required by the State of Mississippi, the University of Mississippi School of Medicine is one of ten medical schools nationwide serving as a beta-test site for a centralized AAMC-facilitated criminal background check pilot program for the class entering in 2008. If accepted to one of these schools, Certiphi Screening, Inc. will provide you electronic access to consent forms that will give them permission to conduct a criminal background check based on inspection of local, state and national records. There will be no charge to the applicant for this service. When complete, accepted applicants will be given ten calendar days to review the report on a secure Certiphi web site. Reports may be contested for accuracy or released to the requesting medical school; if the applicant does not respond within ten calendar days, the report will be released. The purpose of this medical school participating in this pilot program is to assist the AAMC in comparing the accuracy of criminal background checks conducted by independent methods.

Other Nonacademic and Professional Attributes - In addition to interviews, evidence for these attributes are acquired from "experiences" listed on an applicant's AMCAS® application. Examples of what the Admissions Committee seek include evidence of: exposure to clinical medicine (volunteer work or employment at a hospital, clinic, nursing home or hospice, shadowing physicians, participating in medical missions); interaction with diverse people; volunteer service; community activities; leadership; academic pursuits beyond the classroom (such as research); cultural interests and other activities that require commitment of time outside the classroom (employment, athletics, artistic performance). Applicants who acquire such experience while maintaining high academic performance possess time management skills that can contribute to success in medical school.

Faculty Evaluation Letters - NOTICE: Important procedural changes regarding letters of evaluation effective May, 2008

This medical school will be one of twenty participating in a pilot program for electronic submission of evaluation letters for 2009 American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS®) applications. Additional information will be forthcoming via AMCAS® advisor registries and the hlthprof list serv when available.

What Remains the Same?

Required letters of evaluation:

• A minimum of three faculty letters is required: however, one composite evaluation from a pre-professional advisory committee will suffice.
• Evaluations must be written by faculty who taught the applicant preferably pre-requisite courses and who can provide information not readily available elsewhere.
• The author should mention the course(s) in which he/she taught the applicant.
• Above all, we seek information on an applicant's approach to academic studies including how difficulties encountered along the way were dealt with.
• No specific format is required; however, the Premedical Faculty Evaluation Form indicates areas of interest to the Admissions Committee.
• Supplemental letters should be kept to a minimum. When appropriate, a supplemental letter from a physician the applicant has shadowed or current employer may be considered by the admissions committee; but it does not replace required faculty evaluations.

What Will Change?

Do NOT send letters to this office; they will not be accepted.

• Applicants must submit new faculty evaluation letters with each application; the admissions office will no longer roll over letters from previous years.
• Letters must be submitted by one of the following methods:
  • Submit on-line as .pdf file to
    • VirtualEvals
    • Interfolio
    • AMCAS® (a unique URL will be published) or
  • Mail hard copy to AMCAS® for scanning into .pdf file (a unique address will be published).
• For letters submitted directly to AMCAS® in .pdf format or hard copy
  • AMCAS® will acknowledge receipt of your letter; this office will not.
  • AMCAS® will load .pdf files into applications and distribute your letter electronically to all medical schools indicated by the applicant in his/her AMCAS® application.
  • Individual letters must be on either the author's school or business letterhead or Premedical Faculty Appraisal Form, signed and include contact information.
  • Premedical advisory committee letters may be on institution-specific forms but a name and contact information must be included.

Further information will be forthcoming. Instructions for applicants will be updated prior to AMCAS® application launch.

Admissions Committee Deliberations - The Medical School Admissions Committee reviews the entire file for every interviewed applicant. Committee deliberations include a discussion of an applicant's complete academic record, all MCAT® scores, interviewers' evaluations of noncognitive variables, other nonacademic and professional attributes, part- and full-time employment, particularly while enrolled in school. Attention is given to applicants who are from racial or ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine in Mississippi, applicants from either rural or medically underserved Mississippi counties and applicants from either educationally or socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Decisions Rendered - All applicants receive e-mail notification as to the final disposition of the their application not later than March 15. Final notification will be one of the following: 1) acceptance 2) placement on the alternate list or 3) no position available for this year. Alternates will be used to fill any vacancies that may occur if accepted applicants choose not to attend. Any applicant who does not gain acceptance is invited to schedule an appointment with either the Director or Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions to seek post-application counseling on how to improve the competitiveness of their application should the applicant choose to subsequently reapply.

Acceptance to this medical school is conditional; the Admissions Committee may rescind an offer of acceptance at any time before matriculation if an applicant fails to maintain expectations upon which the acceptance was based including failure to complete medical school prerequisites or other course work or degrees in progress.

DIRECTIONS TO UMC

UMC is conveniently located just off interstate highway 55 (see Location of UMC); Jackson International Airport is less than 10 miles away. Enter the campus from North State Street at the traffic light, Parking Garage A is the first structure on the left (see Campus Map). If full, alternative sites are Parking Garage B, Visitors Parking Lot D, and the stadium parking lot across North State Street. Applicants will be given a parking pass valid at all sites at the conclusion of your interview.

The entrance to the David S. Pankratz Building - School of Medicine is adjacent to the School of Nursing (see Campus Map). All interviews begin at the Office of the Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions (see Map to Admissions Office).

RESPONSE TO LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE

Each acceptance letter is accompanied by Information and Instructions, Statement of Acceptance, Technical Standards and White Coat Ceremony forms that must be completed and returned with a deposit to the Division of Student Records and Registrar within 15 days after the date of notification that the applicant has been accepted. Failure to do so within the specified period may automatically void the offer of acceptance.

The medical school admissions committee may rescind an offer of acceptance at any time before matriculation if an applicant fails to maintain expectations upon which the acceptance was based. Examples include, but are not limited to, a significant decline in academic performance, failure to complete prerequisites or other course work and degrees in progress, unprofessional behavior and incidents in a criminal background check.

Statement of Acceptance - A convenient form letter that each applicant must read, complete, sign, date and return indicating his/her intention to attend UMC.

Technical Standards - A description of Technical Standards applicants are expected to meet for admission, retention, promotion and certification as an M.D. Each applicant must read, complete as needed, sign, date and return this form.

White Coat Ceremony Form- A form that enables an accepted applicant to verify the listing of his/her name and specify the size of the coat that he/she will receive at a ceremony held during orientation.

Deposit - A deposit is required of each applicant accepted for admission to the School of Medicine. The amount of the deposit is $50 for a resident of the State of Mississippi and $100 for a nonresident. This deposit is not refundable after May 15, the date when applicants with multiple acceptances should declare where they intend to matriculate. Upon receipt of the deposit, accepted applicants will receive updated information regarding financial assistance, housing, textbooks and special equipment from the Office of Student Financial Aid and Office of Student Affairs.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS

The University of Mississippi Medical Center seeks to promote the health and well being of Mississippians by training health professionals who will care for the state's citizens, by doing research that adds to man's knowledge about disease and health, and by treating the illnessess of patients who come to our hospitals from all of the state's 82 counties. As the state's only health sciences campus, the institution also is committed to the community at large as a source for health information and science instruction. Several programs that reflect that outreach comittment are described below.

BASE PAIR SCIENCE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

"Base pair" refers to the two complementary bases of the DNA helix which form the structure of the molecule from which all life begins. In the same way, a mentorship program called "Base Pair" teams Jackson Public School students with practicing scientists at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMC).

Base Pair students are selected for their interest and aptitude in science. Each student chosen for the program is paired with a UMC scientist or "mentor" whose area of research closely matches the interest of the student. UMC mentors are all scientists of the first rank who do original research and publish regularly in scholarly journals. The number of students who participate in Base Pair is determined largely by the number of mentors who volunteer; the program averages 10 students annually.

The first semester of the program begins in the home school where teachers prepare students for the second semester when four afternoons each week are spent at UMC. Students spend three afternoons a week working individually in the laboratory with their mentor. One afternoon is reserved for a group meeting with program director where the week's laboratory experience and outside reading are discussed.

The students learn laboratory and research skills, scientific documentation and presentation. Each student is required to make a presentation on their research findings and experiences to "colleagues" at UMC at semester's end. The mentors also encourage students to present abstracts at the annual Mississippi Academy of Sciences meeting.

Students receive academic credit for their participation in Base Pair while they get a real taste of the life of the scientist. Base Pair encourages the pursuit of science as a career by demonstrating the challenge and intellectual excitement of biomedical science. Even if students don't pursue careers in science, they are given a new appreciation of how science affects the daily lives of everyone--regardless of occupation.

Students who are interested in participating in Base Pair should contact their science teacher and principal.

The Base Pair program director is:

Rob Rockhold, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, (601) 984-1634, rockhold@pharmacology.umsmed.edu

Mission Statement- The mission of the Health Careers Development Program (HCDP) is to support The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMC) by providing innovative ways to attract students into the field of health care and inform them of educational opportunities available at UMC. Students from diverse backgrounds and educational levels who are seeking opportunities in health care will participate in a hospital based volunteer program. These learning experiences will be influential in preparing students for their career in health care.

Participants/Population Served- College students pursuing a career in health care.

Description of Program- This program is designed to target students that are interested in pursuing a career in health care. The ultimate purpose is to develop a partnership between college students and UMC that will encourage, embrace and nurture interest in medicine, nursing, dentistry, and other health related careers. These students will engage in a volunteer program that allows them to interact with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and other support team members. These interactions will enhance their understanding of the need for health care professionals.

Goals and Objectives-

• To promote health careers by publicizing and marketing opportunities associated with the HCDP
• To enhance students' interest in health careers by providing clinical exposure
• To inform students of educational opportunities at UMC
• To provide transferable learning experiences, foster professionalism, and facilitate a successful transition into the workplace
• To make sure a developmental as well as a reality based approach to the career decision making process is practiced

Expectations of Participants- Program participants must do the following.

• Make a commitment to complete the program within six months.
• Attend orientation and any additional training required.
• Participate on a regularly scheduled basis, minimum two to four hours per week.
• Complete minimum required hours (30-35 hours).
• Participate in an exit interview upon completion of the program.
• Wear the HCDP uniform and adhere to the dress/appearance code.
• Abide by all hospital rules and regulations

Application Process- Priority is given to Mississippi residents. Applications may be requested from Ms. Tonya Moore, the HCDP Coordinator, by telephone (601-815-4241)or email (tmoore2@hospadmin.umsmed.edu). The application process involves two steps.

1. Submit the following as one packet.

• Completed HCDP Application
• Signed Participant Agreement Form
• Signed Nondisclosure Agreement
• Reference letter - one letter written by an individual such as a teacher, employer or pastor
• Official transcript - most recent (a minimum GPA of 2.5 is preferred)

2. Upon submitting all necessary documents, you will be eligible for a scheduled interview.

Applications will be processed in the order in which they are received. Please do not send partially completed applications; interviews will not be scheduled unless the application packet is complete. Processing time is one to two weeks after receipt of a completed application packet, depending on the ability to contact references. Once an application has been processed, applicants will be contacted to arrange an appointment for a personal interview during which assignment options that will be fulfilling for the applicant and meet the needs of patients and their families will be discussed. Requests for an application and questions about this program should be directed to the HCDP Coordinator at tmoore2@hospadmin.umsmed.edu or (601) 815-4241.

Frequently Asked Questions-

How do I take advantage of the HCDP at UMC?

• Complete and submit application packet by mail or in person.
• Attend an interview, which we schedule for you.
• Participate in a general orientation session and any additional training needed

What are the qualifications/requirements for becoming a participant?

College students pursing a career in health care. Volunteers are sought who:

• enjoy working with minimum direction;
• can act independently within the boundaries outlined in a job description;
• are serious about a commitment to the HCDP; and
• have energy and enthusiasm.

How long is the program and how often will I work?

• Complete required hours of volunteer work (30-35 hours)
• Work on a regularly scheduled basis (minimum two to four hours per week).
• Make a commitment to complete the program within six months.

Can I work with patients and what will I be doing?

Most placements will involve direct contact with patients and families which may include:

• One-on-one interactive play in the child's room, in playrooms, in clinics and in waiting areas.
• Visiting with children and families, reading and talking with them.
• Assisting with the transport of patients and/or supplies to various areas of the hospital
• Assisting at reception desks to help patients and visitors find their way around the hospital
• Rocking, holding, and feeding patients

You will also:

• Provide support/assistance to staff
• Observe patient procedures
• Observe physician rounds
• Observe team based approach to patient care (which may include other disciplines such as nursing, social work, pharmacy, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, etc).
• Participate in fund-raising events for the hospital (i.e. Children's hospital telethon) and other organizations (i.e. Miracle Network)
• Assist with special events
• Perform other duties as assigned

May I work in different areas of UMC?

Students participating in the HCDP will work in the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children, the Winfred L. Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants, and the Wallace E. Conerly Hospital for Critical Care. Students will rotate among different areas within these designated hospitals.

Can I change my placement area?

It is recommended that participants stay with their initial assignment(s). If you feel like the assignment may not meet your needs, you will need to discuss this with the program coordinator.

How are placement decisions made?

Placement decisions are made that will provide participants broad experience while in the program. Program participants will rotate among several areas. If you are interested in a particular area or department, notify the program coordinator. If there is a vacancy in that area, during a time that you are available, and if you are suitable, you may be assigned to that area.

Can I observe medical procedures or help with medical treatments?

It is our goal to allow students to gain as much experience from this program as possible. As opportunities arise, students may be placed in these areas for observation.

I've received professional training (nurse, physician, dental hygienist, counselor, etc). May I practice as a participant of this program?

You may participate in the HCDP; however, participants are not permitted to act as professional health care providers in the hospital. All participants must work within the boundaries of the program outlined in the job description given to them at the interview.

What happens if I am unable to report to work?

If you are unable to report to work, you must contact the program coordinator or designee two hours before you are scheduled to arrive.

I have a special skill or hobby that I want to share with children. Can I participate in this capacity?

There is a possibility that we might be able to use your talents. Please let us know if you can offer any enrichment to our program.

If I am unsure about my skills working with children, can I still participate?

Yes. Participants are paired with a hospital employee to gain confidence and experience.

If I want to continue as a volunteer after I have completed the HCDP, can I?

There is a possibility that you may be able to continue as volunteer at UMC. At the completion of the program, you would need to contact the Department of Volunteer Services (601) 984-2068.

How can I acquire an HCDP application or learn more about the program?

Contact Ms. Tonya Moore, Health Careers Development Program Coordinator, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505, (601) 815-4241, tmoore2@hospadmin.umsmed.edu

THE PROFESSIONAL PORTAL TRACK

Vision- Recognizing the value of non-traditional approaches to improving health care for medically underserved communities and populations in the State of Mississippi, the Professional Portal Track will identify, nurture and maximize the academic potential of students who strive towards careers in health care or biomedical science that will benefit the underserved of this state.

Introduction- The Professional Portal Track will provide a mentor-based, comprehensive program that offers a terminal degree in the biomedical sciences suitable as preparation for teaching at the community/junior college level, as advanced training for governmental and industrial positions, and as an indication of competitiveness for admission to the University of Mississippi Schools of Medicine (M.D. program), Dentistry (D.M.D. program), and Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences (Ph.D. program).

Criteria for admission to the Professional Portal Track include: 1) formal application and denial of admission to either the School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, or School of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences at the University of Mississippi Medical Center; 2) Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) or Dental Admissions Test (DAT) scores not more than four years old; 3) belonging to racial or ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine or coming from an environmentally or economically disadvantaged background; 4) recommendation by the medical, dental or graduate school's admission officer; 4) invitation to apply by the Professional Portal Track Program Director; and 5) submission of acceptable Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores.

Residency requirements and time limitations for the Professional Portal Track are the same as those listed in the University of Mississippi Medical Center Bulletin for the Master of Science program. The degree requires the completion of 45 quarter hours of graduate level credit and the maintenance of a B average. The Professional Portal Track program will begin with the onset of the 2004-2005 academic year; a maximum of 15 students will be enrolled in each class.

Mission Statement- The Professional Portal Track at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences utilizes the power of mentorship to attract, sustain and empower students underrepresented in medicine or from environmentally/economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Objectives are to:

• identify, recruit and enroll students whose academic credentials are less than competitive with the current applicant pool but whose non-cognitive, non-academic and professional attributes are consistent with those sought by this institution's programs of professional study related to health care and biomedical sciences;
• apply an individually tailored, mentor-based system of instruction and support that will maximize a participant's study and test taking skills, positive self-expression, and confidence; and
• deliver an academically rigorous course of instruction in contemporary post-baccalaureate biomedical sciences that will prepare graduates to successfully compete for admission and complete M.D., D.M.D or Ph.D. programs at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Frequently Asked Questions-

What is the target audience for the program?

The Professional Portal Track is intended for students who

• strive towards careers in health care or biomedical science and
• belong to racial or ethnic groups underrepresented in medicine or come from an environmentally or economically disadvantaged background that renders them less than academically competitive and
• are most likely to serve medically underserved communities or populations.

What constitutes an environmental or economic disadvantage?

The Federal definitions for environmental and economic disadvantages are taken from The Health Professions Education Partnerships Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-392).

An individual is considered "environmentally/educationally disadvantaged" if they come from an environment that has inhibited the individual from obtaining the knowledge skills and abilities required to enroll in and graduate from a health professions school, or from a program providing education and training in an allied health profession. Specific criteria for an environmentally disadvantaged background include:

• the individual graduated from (or last attended) a high school with low ACT or SAT scores based on most recent data available.
• the individual graduated from (or last attended) a high school from which, based on most recent data available: (a) a low percentage of seniors receive a high school diploma or (b) a low percentage of graduates go to college during the first year after graduation.
• the individual graduated from (or last attended) a high school with low per capita funding.
• the individual graduated from (or last attended) a high school at which, based on most recent data available, many of the enrolled students are eligible for free or reduced price lunches.
• the individual comes from a family that receives public assistance (e.g. Aid to Families with Dependent Children, food stamps, Medicaid, public housing).
• the individual comes from a family that lives in an area that is designated under section 332 of the Act as a health professional shortage area.

An individual is considered "economically/financially disadvantaged" if they come from a family with an annual income below a level based on low income thresholds according to family size, published by the U.S. Bureau of the Census, adjusted annually for changes in the Consumer Price Index, and adjusted by the Secretary for use in all health and allied health professions programs.

The Secretary defines a "low-income" family for programs included in Titles VII and VIII of the PHS Act as having an annual income that does not exceed 200 percent of the Department's poverty guidelines. The Department's poverty guidelines, published in the Federal Register, are based on poverty thresholds published by the U.S. Census Bureau, adjusted annually for changes in the Consumer Price Index. The Secretary annually adjusts the low-income levels based on the Department's poverty guideline and makes them available to persons responsible for administering the applicable programs. The following family size and income figures illustrate brackets used for health professions and nursing grant applications requesting FY 2008 funding.

* - Includes only dependents on Federal Income Tax forms. ** - Adjusted gross income for calendar year 2007.

Who should consider applying to the program?

Applicants must meet the following criteria. They must

• formally apply and be denied admission, within the past calendar year, to either the School of Medicine, Dentistry, or Graduate Studies in Health Sciences at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
• have Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT®) or Dental Admissions Test (DAT) scores not more than four years old.
• belong to a racial or ethnic group underrepresented in medicine or come from an environmentally or economically disadvantaged background.
• be recommended by the medical, dental or graduate school's admission officer based on the following:
  • academic credentials (low GPA or entrance exam scores) less than competitive with the current applicant pool and not immediately correctable by diligent effort on the part of the applicant.
• possession of non-cognitive, non-academic and other professional attributes sought by the school.
• demonstrated interest in or promise of serving medically underserved communities or populations.
• expressed interest in completing the two-year Master of Biomedical Science degree program.
• be invited to apply by the Professional Portal Track Program Director and submit acceptable Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores.

What courses are offered in this program?

The PPT program includes seven required core courses and elective courses. Consult the PPT curriculum for course descriptions and the PPT calendar for the academic schedule.

What are the outcomes for the program?

The primary outcome for successful completion of the Professional Portal Track program is the awarding of the degree, Master of Biomedical Science (M.S.).

In addition, both successful completion of M.S. program requirements and accomplishment of specific academic remediation requirements, as specified by the relevant admissions committees, will afford an individual entry into their school of primary interest (Medicine, Dentistry or Graduate Studies in Health Sciences).

Does this program guarantee subsequent entry into the School of Medicine, Dentistry or Graduate Studies in Health Sciences?

Yes, but only if the individual meets the following criteria:

• successful completion of all requirements for the degree of Master of Biomedical Science, and
• completion of specific, individualized academic remediation requirements, specified by the relevant admissions committee including but not limited to:
  • retake of standardized tests (MCAT®, DAT, GRE) with achievement of specified scores, and/or
  • achievement and maintenance of a specified GPA in the academic coursework leading to the Master of Biomedical Science degree.

What is the cost of the program?

Tuition for Mississippi residents enrolled in the School of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences is $170 per quarter hour credit, up to a maximum charge of $1,534 per quarter. Tuition and fees for non-residents is $ 391 per quarter hour credit, up to a maximum charge of $3,522 per quarter. Tuition and non-resident fees will be prorated for less than nine quarter hours. Laboratory fees and other special fees depend on the courses taken.

Is financial aid available?

Scholarships are not available at this time. PPT students should be prepared to pay for the summer quarter of graduate school expenses at registration (currently estimated to be $120 for one credit tuition and fees, $446 for health insurance, if needed, plus books). For those who complete an on-line entrance interview (www.nelliemae.com or www.wellsfargo.com) and Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (www.fafsa.ed.gov/; list the University of Mississippi Medical Center's school code 004688) by April 30th, financial aid customarily available to graduate students (federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans) may be available in time for registration for the fall quarter in August

Is a thesis required?

No. Graduation from the Professional Portal Track and awarding of the Master of Biomedical Science degree do not require completion of a thesis.

What is the anticipated timeline for admission?

The admissions process in both the School of Medicine and Dentistry can accommodate the following time line. Months listed refer to the calendar year following the initial unsuccessful application to medical, dental or graduate school. For example, a student who applied for admission to professional school in the summer of 2003 would receive notification from the admissions officer of review for recommendation into the Professional Portal Track in March of 2004.

• March 15: Potential applicants to the Professional Portal Track will be notified of review and/or possible interview.
• March 30: An invitation to apply to the Professional Portal Track will be issued by the Program Director.
• May 1: Application to the Professional Portal Track must be received; notification that a student has taken or is scheduled to take the GRE must accompany the application.

What is the duration of the Professional Portal Track program?

The Professional Portal Track is a two year, eight quarter program that begins in the summer quarter of the year of admission and ends with the spring quarter of the second year following admission. The summer quarter of the first year will engage students in a ten week course, entitled Academic Excellence, the purpose of which is to provide academic counseling and guidance in study skills and test-taking to ensure establishing a competitive academic record.

Students enrolled in the first year of the Professional Portal Track program that prematurely apply to University of Mississippi Medical Center Schools of Medicine, Dentistry and Graduate Studies in Health Science will be automatically denied admission.

How do I find further details about this program?

The initial contacts for information concerning the Professional Portal Track are the admissions officers for the school of primary interest for the applicant.

For the School of Medicine:

Steven T. Case, Ph.D. Associate Dean for Medical School Admissions University of Mississippi Medical Center 2500 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216-4505 (601) 984-5010 AdmitMD@som.umsmed.edu

For the School of Dentistry:

James D. Duncan, D.D.S. Chairman, Dental School Admission Committee University of Mississippi Medical Center 2500 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216-4505 (601) 984-6030 jduncan@sod.umsmed.edu

For the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences:

contact the department or program of interest.

The Program Director for the Professional Portal Track is:

Rob Rockhold, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology University of Mississippi Medical Center 2500 North State Street Jackson, MS 39216-4505 (601) 984-1634 rrockhold@pharmacology.umsmed.edu

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