Meharry Medical College

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Meharry Medical College

  • Overview & Academics

    Meharry Medical College, founded in 1876, is a private, historically black graduate health sciences institution located in Nashville, Tennessee. Its academic programs focus on medical, dental, biomedical research, public health, and healthcare policy education, with a core mission of advancing health equity, particularly among underserved and minority populations. Meharry is affiliated with multiple teaching hospitals in Nashville and renowned for producing a significant portion of African American physicians and dentists practicing in the United States.

    • Schools and Programs
      • School of Medicine (MD, PhD, master’s in health science, and postbaccalaureate certificates)
      • School of Dentistry (DDS, master’s, and certificate programs)
      • School of Graduate Studies and Research (PhD and master’s degrees in biomedical sciences and public health)
      • Accelerated pre-med and special master’s programs for health professions
  • Admissions

    • Highly competitive, especially for MD and DDS programs
    • Holistic review process emphasizing academic excellence, commitment to service, and mission alignment
    • Applications accepted via AMCAS (MD) and AADSAS (DDS)
    • Minimum undergraduate science GPA requirements and test scores (MCAT or DAT if applicable)
    • Recommendation letters and interviews required
  • Cost

    • Tuition (2023-24 estimates):
      • MD: approx. $60,000/year
      • DDS: approx. $50,000/year
      • Master’s/PhD: $23,000-$38,000/year depending on the program
    • Additional expenses: fees, health insurance, housing, books, and supplies
    • Financial aid and scholarships available for qualified students
  • Student Population

    • Total enrollment: 900 – 1,000 students
    • Racial/ethnic diversity: Historically, over 70% African American/Black students with increasing representation from other minority groups
    • Graduate/professional student body (no undergraduate programs)
    • Strong emphasis on community service and leadership among the student population
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Among the oldest and largest historically black academic health science centers in the U.S.
    • Top producer nationally of African American physicians and dentists
    • Recognized for its commitment to healthcare access and diversity in medicine
    • Designated as a Center of Excellence in health disparities research
    • High extramural research funding relative to peer institutions
  • Campus & Culture

    • Urban campus located in North Nashville
    • Renovated facilities, simulation labs, advanced clinics, and research centers
    • Close-knit, service-oriented, and mission-driven campus atmosphere
    • Affiliation with Nashville General Hospital and other prominent healthcare partners
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • No varsity athletics; intramural sports and fitness activities available
    • Annual traditions include White Coat ceremonies, campus fairs, Spirit Week, and alumni events
    • Community service and engagement are integral traditions
  • Mission

    Meharry Medical College is dedicated to the education of health professionals and scientists, delivering high-quality health care to underserved populations, and conducting research that fosters health equity. The institution’s motto: “Worship of God Through Service to Mankind,” underscores its humanitarian, medical, and ethical values.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • President and CEO: Dr. James E.K. Hildreth
    • Ongoing campus expansion and modernization initiatives
    • Recent increases in research funding and grants
    • Strategic partnerships with major healthcare and research organizations, including investments in telehealth and public health infrastructure
  • Programs

    • Medical Doctor (MD)
    • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
    • Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)
    • Master of Health Science (MHS)
    • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomedical Sciences
    • Postbaccalaureate and certificate programs
  • Campus Life

    • Student-driven wellness and mental health programming
    • Mentoring by faculty and alumni networks
    • Living-learning communities, residence halls, and communal events
    • On-site clinics and outreach activities in greater Nashville
  • Student Organizations

    • Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
    • Student National Dental Association (SNDA)
    • Graduate Student Association
    • Minority and specialty interest medical groups
    • Fraternities and faith-based organizations
    • Community health outreach clubs and service initiatives
  • Admission Stats

    • School of Medicine (recent class average):
      • Applications received: 5,000+
      • Class size: ~100-120
      • Average GPA: 3.5
      • Average MCAT: 504-507
    • School of Dentistry (recent class average):
      • Applications received: 2,000+
      • Class size: ~60
      • Average GPA: 3.2-3.4
      • Average DAT: 17-19
    • Public health and biomedical science programs admit smaller cohorts and consider GRE/other scores where applicable
    • High representation of women and underrepresented minorities in all programs

For more information, visit the official website at www.mmc.edu or the campus at 1005 DB Todd Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee 37208.