Engaging College-Level Baccalaureate-MD Students in Clinical Research

Abstract

College students in baccalaureate-MD (BA/MD) programs are well situated to get involved with clinical research as a component of their scholarly enrichment. The authors review the educational and professional development benefits of BA/MD college research in the United States (US), the lack of evidence-based strategies to guide program innovation, lessons from non-US medical school research enrichment efforts, and teaching models that can help boost BA/MD research engagement at the college level. Collaboration on part of program directors, faculty and students can help strengthen the quality and accessibility of research opportunities with a focus on longitudinal skills building and professional mentorship.

Keywords: baccalaureate-MD; medical education; research.