VCOM View Vol 9-1

MABS, are guaranteed admission to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program on one of the three VCOM campuses, unlike similar programs that only guarantee an interview. The program grew from a VCOM graduate certificate program offered for over seven years and boasting more than 70 percent of its graduates gaining acceptance into a medical school or other professional program of the student’s choice. “In line with the mission of both institutions, the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences is offered to attract individuals from rural areas, low socioeconomic backgrounds, and underrepresented minority

Students in the MABS program will also have opportunities to use the knowledge they are learning in the classroom during three-day Appalachian outreach field experiences. In addition, with class sizes capped at 120 students, everyone will receive a high level of attention from administration and faculty providing a personalized live classroom experience. “VCOM and Bluefield College are committed to serving the needs of Southwest Virginia,” said Dr. Olive. “I am looking forward to the collaborative development of future programs that will further our missions in this region.” ■

groups, although acceptance is not limited to individuals from these clusters,” said Dr. Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, VCOM President and Provost. “The MABS will not only allow students to receive financial aid, but will also academically strengthen students who are interested in pursuing medical school or who professions or science programs,” said Dr. Emily Lambert, associate professor and chair of the Bluefield College Biology Department. “It will be much more advantageous than other post-baccalaureate programs and will give students a significant competitive edge,” Lambert added. need to meet or improve the requirements for other health

Students who successfully complete all requirements,

including academic and individual performance benchmarks in the MABS, are guaranteed admission to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program on one of the three VCOM campuses, unlike similar programs that only guarantee an interview.

winter 2018 | VCOM V iew M agazine 21