Question 1: When are applications due?
Applications must be received on or before the March deadline. You are encouraged to apply early.

Question 2: Is there an advantage to applying early?
Definitely, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Offers for interviews and admission are made continuously throughout the application cycle. Submitting all required documents early in the application cycle is of considerable advantage.

Question 3: Will my file be reviewed if you have not received my letters and/or transcripts?
No. All required application documents must be received before we can process your application.

Question 4: Is a college degree required for admission?
Yes, either a BA or BS degree with a strong science component covering the prerequisites from an accredited US institution must be awarded prior to matriculation into the MSMS program.

Question 5: Is there a minimum GPA required for admission?
Yes, a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 is required.

Question 6: Do I need to take an admissions entrance exam to apply to the program?
Please refer to the table below:

Table

Professional Goal Test Score Required Centralized Application Service (optional)
Pre-medical MCAT (within the last 3 years) AACOMAS or AMCAS application
Pre-dental DAT (within the last 3 years) AADSAS
Pre-optometry OAT (within the last 2 years) OPTOMCAS
Pre-podiatry MCAT (within the last 3 years) AACOMAS
Pre-pharmacy Not applicable PHARMCAS
Pre-physical therapy Not applicable PTCAS

Question 7: What score(s) do I need to be considered for admission to the program?
There are no set criteria for admittance; the most qualified applicants will be selected. Linkages, however, may have minimum requirements for consideration.

Question 8: Can I transfer from another graduate program?
Unfortunately, no. The MSMS program does not accept transfer students.

Question 9: Can I transfer credits from another graduate program?
The MSMS program generally does not accept transfer coursework.

Question 10: Is there an application fee? If so, how much is the application fee?
Yes, there is a non-refundable $50.00 application fee.

Question 11: Is there an advantage to being an in-state applicant?
No, all students are considered on the basis of their ability to complete the program.

Question 12: What types of letters of recommendation are required?
Three letters of recommendation are required. You will enter your recommenders information in your primary application (PostBacCAS). The recommendation forms will be sent to your recommender electronically from the application service. You should choose individuals who are not related to you and who are familiar with your scholarship, health care service, and/or research potential. One letter must be from a science faculty member and the other two can be from additional science, non-science faculty, healthcare professional for whom you have worked or volunteered, and/or an employer or supervisor.

Question 13: Do you accept international students?
Yes.

Question 1: How do I check my application status online?
You can check your application status by visiting the application status page.

Question 2: What if I want to change information on my application after I have completed it?
You may not change answers or documents submitted with your application, but you may upload additional, supplemental materials. To do so, visit the application status page and use the “Upload Materials” section of the page to submit your supplemental materials.

Question 3: What if I want to apply to more than one program? Do I need to create a new account?
You can apply to multiple programs using a single account. Visit our online application, log in, and click “Start New Application” at the bottom of the page.

Question 4: What address should I use if I need to mail any additional application materials?
For official transcripts please mail to:
Western University of Health Sciences
Attn: Admissions Operations/program you are applying for (MSMS, MSNE, MSPS, etc.)
309 E Second Street
Pomona, CA 91766

For unofficial documents, please upload to the online application as indicated in the application instructions.

Question 5: How do I pay my application fee?
All application fees require payments made by credit card. Only cards with Visa and Master Card logos will be accepted. No checks, money orders, or cash will be accepted for payment of application fees.

Question 6: What if I do not have a Visa or Master Card?
Payment may be made with a Visa or Master Card prepaid gift card which can be purchased at many major chain stores or online. Please be aware that the gift card must contain a balance sufficient to cover the application fee in one full payment.

Question 7: Are fee waivers accepted?
Payment is required at time of application, if a fee waiver is approved a reimbursement will be issued.

Question 8: How do I withdraw my application?
You may withdraw your application by visiting the application status page. Scroll to the bottom of your application and select withdraw my application.

Question 9: How do I delete an application I accidentally started?
Applicants cannot delete their own application once started. Please submit a request to Admissions Operations at AO@westernu.edu to have it deleted.

Question 10: I have applied to more than one program. How do I check my application status for multiple applications?
You can check your application status by visiting the application status page. Select the application you wish to view from the drop down menu located on the right hand side.

Question 1: Is the program accredited?
Western University of Health Sciences is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – 985 Atlantic Venue, Suite 100. Alameda, CA  94570. (510) 748-9001. The MSMS degree program was approved by WASC in June 2010.

Question 2: Is this a full- or part-time program?
The MSMS program is a full-time program.

Question 3: Is this program on a semester or quarter system?
The MSMS program utilizes a semester system.

Question 4: Must I have previously applied to a professional school to apply to the MSMS program?
No, we are interested in those who have applied as well as those who have taken the majority of their Pre-Health requirements but are planning on applying.

Question 5: Who is eligible for the program?
Applicants who have either obtained an undergraduate degree in a science field or who have a non-science baccalaureate degree but have taken the necessary undergraduate prerequisites for their chosen pre-health profession are eligible for admission to the MSMS program. Applicants should have experience in clinical setting(s) or healthcare service and be sure that a career in the health professions is their desired goal.

Question 6: Who will be teaching the classes?
Predominantly, permanent WesternU faculty with appointments in the College of Health Sciences and other WesternU colleges, such as the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, and the College of Dental Medicine.

Question 7: Are there separate course sections for MSMS students?
The majority of your curriculum is done separately in courses designed specifically to strengthen your science background for your continued education in a graduate health sciences program. The anatomy course(s) are taken with first year students in the Osteopathic Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Podiatric Medicine programs.

Question 8: How long is the program?
The MSMS program is designed to be completed in 12 months.

Question 9: How many students will be admitted to the MSMS program?
The expected class size is 25 students.

Question 10: Can I work while attending this program?
No, you are expected to engage in rigorous coursework as a full-time student and should not be working even in a part-time capacity. Students will also engage in clinical volunteer and shadowing opportunities during the program.

Question 11: What hours will I be attending classes?
Your courses will take place during the business day – Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You should also expect to be available for research and/or clinical work both during the week; however, there may be circumstances where you will need to do research and clinical work in the evening and/or on weekends.

Question 12: Does the MSMS program arrange the shadowing/clinical volunteer opportunities for the students?
The MSMS program will arrange the shadowing/clinical volunteer opportunities that students experience during the curriculum.

Question 13: Are there opportunities for research experiences during the MSMS program?
Yes, interested students will be matched with faculty for bench, clinical, or community based participatory research.

Question 14: Will I be required to write a thesis?
You will be required to complete a capstone project over the course of the spring semester which will require a written research paper and an oral presentation of the research.

Question 15: Do I have to have a laptop? If so, what are the minimum specifications?
Yes, a laptop computer is required. You will be expected to supply your own computer. The minimum specifications are located on our Computing Resources page.

Question 16: Are scholarships available? What are the criteria for selection?
Yes, scholarships are available for disadvantaged students. In order to qualify, applicants will be required to complete a detailed application and provide parental and individual tax records for the previous tax year.

Question 17: Are MSMS classes offered online?
No, since pandemic restrictions have been lifted, all MSMS courses are offered on-campus and student attendance is mandatory.

Question 18: Can I visit your campus?
We would love for you to visit campus! Attend Preview Day where we will provide you with detailed information on the curriculum and profession as well as the admissions process. You will also have the opportunity to hear from the dean/upper-administration and chat with current WesternU students as they tour you through the facilities (virtually or in-person).

Question 19: What types of research projects do MSMS students engage in?
MSMS students have an opportunity to do research with WesternU faculty. Areas of research include molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience, anatomy, physiology and education. Additionally students have been involved in community health assessment research including working with faculty from the FACE group on campus.

Admissions

Question 1: When are applications due?
Applications must be received on or before the March deadline. You are encouraged to apply early.

Question 2: Is there an advantage to applying early?
Definitely, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Offers for interviews and admission are made continuously throughout the application cycle. Submitting all required documents early in the application cycle is of considerable advantage.

Question 3: Will my file be reviewed if you have not received my letters and/or transcripts?
No. All required application documents must be received before we can process your application.

Question 4: Is a college degree required for admission?
Yes, either a BA or BS degree with a strong science component covering the prerequisites from an accredited US institution must be awarded prior to matriculation into the MSMS program.

Question 5: Is there a minimum GPA required for admission?
Yes, a minimum overall GPA of 2.50 is required.

Question 6: Do I need to take an admissions entrance exam to apply to the program?
Please refer to the table below:

Table

Professional Goal Test Score Required Centralized Application Service (optional)
Pre-medical MCAT (within the last 3 years) AACOMAS or AMCAS application
Pre-dental DAT (within the last 3 years) AADSAS
Pre-optometry OAT (within the last 2 years) OPTOMCAS
Pre-podiatry MCAT (within the last 3 years) AACOMAS
Pre-pharmacy Not applicable PHARMCAS
Pre-physical therapy Not applicable PTCAS

Question 7: What score(s) do I need to be considered for admission to the program?
There are no set criteria for admittance; the most qualified applicants will be selected. Linkages, however, may have minimum requirements for consideration.

Question 8: Can I transfer from another graduate program?
Unfortunately, no. The MSMS program does not accept transfer students.

Question 9: Can I transfer credits from another graduate program?
The MSMS program generally does not accept transfer coursework.

Question 10: Is there an application fee? If so, how much is the application fee?
Yes, there is a non-refundable $50.00 application fee.

Question 11: Is there an advantage to being an in-state applicant?
No, all students are considered on the basis of their ability to complete the program.

Question 12: What types of letters of recommendation are required?
Three letters of recommendation are required. You will enter your recommenders information in your primary application (PostBacCAS). The recommendation forms will be sent to your recommender electronically from the application service. You should choose individuals who are not related to you and who are familiar with your scholarship, health care service, and/or research potential. One letter must be from a science faculty member and the other two can be from additional science, non-science faculty, healthcare professional for whom you have worked or volunteered, and/or an employer or supervisor.

Question 13: Do you accept international students?
Yes.

Online Application

Question 1: How do I check my application status online?
You can check your application status by visiting the application status page.

Question 2: What if I want to change information on my application after I have completed it?
You may not change answers or documents submitted with your application, but you may upload additional, supplemental materials. To do so, visit the application status page and use the “Upload Materials” section of the page to submit your supplemental materials.

Question 3: What if I want to apply to more than one program? Do I need to create a new account?
You can apply to multiple programs using a single account. Visit our online application, log in, and click “Start New Application” at the bottom of the page.

Question 4: What address should I use if I need to mail any additional application materials?
For official transcripts please mail to:
Western University of Health Sciences
Attn: Admissions Operations/program you are applying for (MSMS, MSNE, MSPS, etc.)
309 E Second Street
Pomona, CA 91766

For unofficial documents, please upload to the online application as indicated in the application instructions.

Question 5: How do I pay my application fee?
All application fees require payments made by credit card. Only cards with Visa and Master Card logos will be accepted. No checks, money orders, or cash will be accepted for payment of application fees.

Question 6: What if I do not have a Visa or Master Card?
Payment may be made with a Visa or Master Card prepaid gift card which can be purchased at many major chain stores or online. Please be aware that the gift card must contain a balance sufficient to cover the application fee in one full payment.

Question 7: Are fee waivers accepted?
Payment is required at time of application, if a fee waiver is approved a reimbursement will be issued.

Question 8: How do I withdraw my application?
You may withdraw your application by visiting the application status page. Scroll to the bottom of your application and select withdraw my application.

Question 9: How do I delete an application I accidentally started?
Applicants cannot delete their own application once started. Please submit a request to Admissions Operations at AO@westernu.edu to have it deleted.

Question 10: I have applied to more than one program. How do I check my application status for multiple applications?
You can check your application status by visiting the application status page. Select the application you wish to view from the drop down menu located on the right hand side.

Other

Question 1: Is the program accredited?
Western University of Health Sciences is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – 985 Atlantic Venue, Suite 100. Alameda, CA  94570. (510) 748-9001. The MSMS degree program was approved by WASC in June 2010.

Question 2: Is this a full- or part-time program?
The MSMS program is a full-time program.

Question 3: Is this program on a semester or quarter system?
The MSMS program utilizes a semester system.

Question 4: Must I have previously applied to a professional school to apply to the MSMS program?
No, we are interested in those who have applied as well as those who have taken the majority of their Pre-Health requirements but are planning on applying.

Question 5: Who is eligible for the program?
Applicants who have either obtained an undergraduate degree in a science field or who have a non-science baccalaureate degree but have taken the necessary undergraduate prerequisites for their chosen pre-health profession are eligible for admission to the MSMS program. Applicants should have experience in clinical setting(s) or healthcare service and be sure that a career in the health professions is their desired goal.

Question 6: Who will be teaching the classes?
Predominantly, permanent WesternU faculty with appointments in the College of Health Sciences and other WesternU colleges, such as the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, and the College of Dental Medicine.

Question 7: Are there separate course sections for MSMS students?
The majority of your curriculum is done separately in courses designed specifically to strengthen your science background for your continued education in a graduate health sciences program. The anatomy course(s) are taken with first year students in the Osteopathic Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Podiatric Medicine programs.

Question 8: How long is the program?
The MSMS program is designed to be completed in 12 months.

Question 9: How many students will be admitted to the MSMS program?
The expected class size is 25 students.

Question 10: Can I work while attending this program?
No, you are expected to engage in rigorous coursework as a full-time student and should not be working even in a part-time capacity. Students will also engage in clinical volunteer and shadowing opportunities during the program.

Question 11: What hours will I be attending classes?
Your courses will take place during the business day – Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You should also expect to be available for research and/or clinical work both during the week; however, there may be circumstances where you will need to do research and clinical work in the evening and/or on weekends.

Question 12: Does the MSMS program arrange the shadowing/clinical volunteer opportunities for the students?
The MSMS program will arrange the shadowing/clinical volunteer opportunities that students experience during the curriculum.

Question 13: Are there opportunities for research experiences during the MSMS program?
Yes, interested students will be matched with faculty for bench, clinical, or community based participatory research.

Question 14: Will I be required to write a thesis?
You will be required to complete a capstone project over the course of the spring semester which will require a written research paper and an oral presentation of the research.

Question 15: Do I have to have a laptop? If so, what are the minimum specifications?
Yes, a laptop computer is required. You will be expected to supply your own computer. The minimum specifications are located on our Computing Resources page.

Question 16: Are scholarships available? What are the criteria for selection?
Yes, scholarships are available for disadvantaged students. In order to qualify, applicants will be required to complete a detailed application and provide parental and individual tax records for the previous tax year.

Question 17: Are MSMS classes offered online?
No, since pandemic restrictions have been lifted, all MSMS courses are offered on-campus and student attendance is mandatory.

Question 18: Can I visit your campus?
We would love for you to visit campus! Attend Preview Day where we will provide you with detailed information on the curriculum and profession as well as the admissions process. You will also have the opportunity to hear from the dean/upper-administration and chat with current WesternU students as they tour you through the facilities (virtually or in-person).

Question 19: What types of research projects do MSMS students engage in?
MSMS students have an opportunity to do research with WesternU faculty. Areas of research include molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience, anatomy, physiology and education. Additionally students have been involved in community health assessment research including working with faculty from the FACE group on campus.