Top 5 Medical Schools in Texas: How to Get in (2023 Update)

 

Studying medicine in Texas can be a great choice for many students. Texas has a number of highly-ranked medical schools that offer excellent education and training opportunities. However, as with any medical school application process, admission to top medical schools in Texas is highly competitive, so students should be prepared to work hard and put in the effort needed to stand out from other applicants. If you have chosen Texas for your medical studies, keep reading to learn more about its top five medical schools. 

Why Study Medicine in Texas?

Student life in Texas can be exciting and varied, with many opportunities for students to explore their interests and make new connections. Texas is also a great choice for medical students who are looking for excellent education and training opportunities, a variety of programs, and a diverse patient population. Here are some reasons why studying medicine in Texas is a great choice:

1. Highly-ranked institutions: Texas has several highly-ranked medical schools, such as the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, and the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. These schools have a reputation for academic excellence and provide students with excellent training opportunities.
2. Variety of programs: Texas has a range of medical schools that offer different programs and specialties, including allopathic medicine, osteopathic medicine, and physician assistant studies. This means that students can find a program that fits their interests and career goals.
3. Large medical center: The Texas Medical Center in Houston is the largest medical complex in the world, with over 50 institutions. This provides students with a wealth of opportunities for clinical experience, research, and networking.
4. Low cost of living: Texas has a relatively low cost of living compared to other states, which can make it more affordable for students to attend medical school.
5. Diverse patient population: Texas has a diverse patient population, which provides students with the opportunity to work with patients from different backgrounds and cultures.

Top Medical Schools in Texas

 The top 5 medical schools in Texas according to the 2023 U.S. News & World Report research rankings are:

1. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
2. Baylor College of Medicine
3. University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
4. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
5. University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Ranking Criteria

It is important to note that the 2023 U.S. News & World Report ranks Texas medical schools based on a variety of factors, including:

• Quality assessment:

 This factor is based on surveys of medical school deans and residency program directors who are asked to rate the quality of programs on a scale of 1 to 5.

• Research activity:

 This factor takes into account the total amount of research funding received by the medical school from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) during the most recent fiscal year.

• Student selectivity: 

This factor looks at the academic qualifications of students admitted to the medical school, such as average GPA and MCAT scores.

• Faculty resources: 

This factor looks at the faculty-to-student ratio, the percentage of faculty who hold a PhD or MD, and the percentage of faculty who are members of the National Academy of Sciences.

• Primary care:

This factor looks at the percentage of graduates who go on to primary care residencies.

• Student outcomes: 

This factor looks at the percentage of students who pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 exam, as well as the percentage of graduates who go on to residency programs in their desired specialty.

 

General Admission Requirements 

The admission requirements for medical studies in Texas may vary slightly between schools, but generally, the following requirements apply:

1. Bachelor’s degree: 

Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution prior to matriculation into the medical program.

• Required coursework:

Applicants must have completed specific coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and English. For example, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center requires two semesters of general biology, two semesters of general chemistry, two semesters of organic chemistry, and two semesters of physics.

• MCAT:

 Applicants must take the MCAT and achieve a competitive score. The MCAT assesses knowledge and skills in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and critical thinking.

• Letters of recommendation: 

Applicants must submit letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their academic performance, character, and potential as a physician.

• Personal statement:

Applicants must submit a personal statement explaining their motivation for pursuing a career in medicine, as well as their experiences and qualifications.

• Interviews: 

Applicants who meet the initial qualifications may be invited for an interview with the admissions committee. The interview allows the committee to assess the applicant’s communication skills, professionalism, and fit with the program.

Additionally, some medical schools may have specific requirements for community service, clinical experience, or research experience. It’s important to review the specific requirements for each school to which you are applying.

General Application Process

The application process for medical schools in Texas generally follows these steps:

1. Submit the AMCAS application: The American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) is a centralized application service that allows applicants to apply to multiple medical schools at once. Applicants must submit their biographical information, transcripts, MCAT scores, and personal statement through AMCAS.
2. Complete the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) application: TMDSAS is a centralized application service for medical and dental schools in Texas. In addition to the information submitted through AMCAS, applicants must also submit their residency information and additional essays through TMDSAS.
3. Letters of recommendation: Applicants must arrange for letters of recommendation to be submitted on their behalf. Each medical school has different requirements for the number and type of letters of recommendation.
4. Interview: Applicants who meet the initial qualifications may be invited to interview with the admissions committee. The interview is typically conducted in person, but may be conducted virtually due to COVID-19.
5. Notification of decision: Applicants will be notified of their admission decision on a rolling basis. Admitted students will be required to submit a deposit to hold their spot in the program.

Remember that each medical school may have specific requirements and deadlines for their application process, so it’s important to research each school thoroughly and plan accordingly.

 

Top 5 Medical Schools in Texas: Profiles

 

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center is widely regarded as an accredited medical school and research institution. It consistently ranks highly in national rankings, including being ranked as the #1 medical school in Texas and #18 in the nation for research in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report rankings.

UT Southwestern is known for its strong academic programs, world-class faculty, and groundbreaking research in areas such as genetics, cancer, and neuroscience. It is also home to several renowned research centers and institutes, including the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, and the Children’s Medical Center Research Institute.

In addition to its strong research programs, UT Southwestern provides excellent patient care through its affiliated hospitals and clinics in the Dallas area. Its graduates are highly sought after by employers and go on to successful careers in a variety of medical fields.

Programs

1. Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program: This is the school’s flagship program, which prepares students for careers in clinical medicine and medical research.
2. Physician Assistant Program: This program prepares students to become physician assistants who work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide patient care.
3. Doctor of Physical Therapy Program: This program prepares students for careers as physical therapists who help patients regain mobility and manage pain after injury or illness.
4. Doctoral Programs in Biomedical Sciences: These programs offer advanced training in a range of biomedical research areas, including genetics, neuroscience, and cancer biology.
5. Master’s Programs in Health Professions Education and Biomedical Informatics: These programs provide specialized training in areas such as medical education and health informatics, which are increasingly important in modern healthcare settings.
6. Continuing Medical Education Programs: The school offers a variety of continuing education programs for healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, to help them stay up-to-date with the latest advances in their fields.

Acceptance Rate

For the 2021-2022 application cycle, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center received approximately 7,300 applications for its medical school program. Of those, 1,026 applicants were invited for an interview, and 238 students were ultimately accepted. This results in an acceptance rate of approximately 3.3%. However, it’s important to note that the acceptance rate may vary from year to year depending on the size and competitiveness of the applicant pool, as well as the specific criteria used by the admissions committee to evaluate applications.

Median MCAT Score

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center does not publish its median MCAT score for accepted students. However, according to the most recent data available from the school (for the 2020-2021 application cycle), the median MCAT score for all applicants was 515, with a range of 499-527. It’s important to note that these scores are just one component of the application and are evaluated in conjunction with other factors such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, the median MCAT score may vary from year to year depending on the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

Tuition Fees and Funding Opportunities

For the 2022-2023 academic year, the tuition and fees for the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW) are as follows:

• Texas resident: $23,584 per year
• Non-Texas resident: $37,584 per year

UTSW offers financial aid and scholarships to eligible students. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal aid programs, such as grants and loans. The school also offers scholarships and grants based on academic achievement, financial need, and other factors. Students can contact the school’s financial aid office for more information on available options.

UTSW also participates in the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Physician Education Loan Repayment Program, which provides loan repayment assistance to eligible physicians who agree to practice in underserved areas of Texas. Additionally, UTSW offers its own loan repayment program for physicians who commit to serving in underserved areas of Texas or in academic medicine.

 

Baylor College of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) is a private medical school located in Houston, Texas. It was founded in 1900 as the University of Dallas Medical Department, and in 1943, it became an independent institution under the name Baylor University College of Medicine. Today, BCM is affiliated with Baylor University and is one of the leading medical schools in the country, consistently ranked among the top 25 by U.S. News & World Report.

BCM offers a variety of medical programs, including an MD program, a Physician Assistant program, PhD programs in biomedical research, master’s programs in clinical science and genetic counseling, and postdoctoral training programs. The college has a strong research focus, with faculty and students engaged in cutting-edge research across a range of biomedical areas, including genetics, neuroscience, cancer biology, and infectious diseases.

BCM has a diverse student body and is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and equity. The college offers a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services. BCM also has a strong commitment to community service and provides opportunities for students to engage in local and global outreach programs.

Programs

1. Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program: This is the primary program at Baylor College of Medicine, which prepares students for careers in clinical medicine and medical research.
2. Physician Assistant Program: This program prepares students to become physician assistants who work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide patient care.
3. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program: These programs offer advanced training in a range of biomedical research areas, including genetics, neuroscience, and cancer biology.
4. Master’s Programs in Clinical Science: These programs provide students with specialized training in clinical research and help them develop the skills needed to conduct clinical trials.
5. Master’s Programs in Genetic Counseling: These programs prepare students for careers as genetic counselors, who work with patients and families to assess the risk of genetic diseases and make informed decisions about genetic testing and treatment.
6. Postdoctoral Training Programs: Baylor College of Medicine offers a variety of postdoctoral training programs for researchers and healthcare professionals looking to further their training and education.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for Baylor College of Medicine is typically around 3-4%, making it a highly competitive medical school to gain admission to. However, it’s important to note that admission rates can vary from year to year and can also depend on a range of factors, such as the strength of the applicant pool and the number of available spots in the program. Ultimately, applicants should focus on putting together a strong application that highlights their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant experiences.

Median MCAT Score

According to the latest available data, the median MCAT score for students admitted to Baylor College of Medicine was 520, which is in the 98th percentile of all MCAT test-takers. It’s important to note that this is just the median score, and applicants with scores below this level may still be considered for admission if they have other strong qualifications, such as exceptional grades, relevant research or clinical experience, or outstanding letters of recommendation. However, as with any highly competitive medical school, having a strong MCAT score can be an important factor in the admissions process.

Tuition Fees and Funding Opportunities

For the 2021-2022 academic year, the tuition and fees for Baylor College of Medicine are as follows:

• Medical School: $25,240 per semester, or $50,480 per year
• Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences: $17,180 per semester, or $34,360 per year

Note that these figures do not include additional expenses such as housing, books, and supplies, which can vary depending on individual circumstances.

In terms of funding opportunities, Baylor College of Medicine offers a range of scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses. These include need-based aid, merit-based scholarships, and loans. Additionally, students may be able to secure funding through external sources such as private foundations, government programs, and research grants.

Prospective students are encouraged to explore all of the available funding options and to work with the school’s financial aid office to develop a comprehensive plan for financing their education.

University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) is a public academic health science center located in the heart of Houston, Texas. Established in 1972, UTHealth is one of six health science centers in the University of Texas System and is dedicated to educating healthcare professionals, conducting cutting-edge research, and providing world-class patient care.

UTHealth offers a wide range of academic programs in healthcare and biomedical sciences, including degree programs in medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health, and biomedical informatics. The school is also home to numerous research centers and institutes focused on areas such as cancer, neuroscience, genetics, infectious diseases, and health policy.

In addition to its academic and research offerings, UTHealth has a strong commitment to community engagement and public health. The school partners with a variety of organizations and community groups to provide healthcare services, education, and support to underserved populations in the Houston area and beyond.

Programs

1. McGovern Medical School: Offers degree programs in medicine, biomedical sciences, and public health, as well as residency and fellowship programs in various specialties.
2. Cizik School of Nursing: Offers degree programs in nursing at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, as well as continuing education and professional development programs.
3. School of Dentistry: Offers degree programs in dentistry, dental hygiene, and dental laboratory technology, as well as residency and fellowship programs.
4. School of Public Health: Offers degree programs in public health at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, as well as research and community outreach programs focused on improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities.
5. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences: Offers degree programs in biomedical sciences at the master’s and doctoral levels, as well as postdoctoral research opportunities.
6. School of Biomedical Informatics: Offers degree programs in biomedical informatics at the master’s and doctoral levels, as well as certificate programs and continuing education courses.
7. School of Health Professions: Offers degree programs in various healthcare professions, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and physician assistant studies.

Acceptance Rate

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) does not publicly disclose its acceptance rate. However, it is generally considered to be a selective institution, with competitive admissions requirements for its various programs in healthcare and biomedical sciences. Admissions decisions are based on a variety of factors, including academic achievement, test scores, work experience, research experience, and personal qualities such as leadership, communication skills, and cultural competency. Prospective students are encouraged to review the specific admissions requirements for their desired program and to contact the admissions office for more information about the application process.

Median MCAT Score

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) does not publicly disclose its median MCAT score. Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of each applicant’s academic credentials, work and research experience, personal qualities, and other factors. However, UTHealth encourages applicants to aim for competitive MCAT scores that demonstrate their readiness for the rigors of medical education and clinical practice. Prospective students can consult the admissions requirements for their desired program to learn more about the recommended or minimum MCAT score, as well as other factors considered in the application process.

Tuition Fees and Funding Opportunities

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) offers a range of healthcare and biomedical science programs, each with its own tuition and fees. Tuition and fees for medical and dental programs at UTHealth are generally among the highest in the state of Texas, reflecting the cost of providing high-quality education and training. For example, for the 2021-2022 academic year, the total cost of attendance for medical students at UTHealth is approximately $35,000 for Texas residents and $59,000 for non-residents, not including living expenses.

UTHealth offers a variety of funding opportunities to help students finance their education, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many of these funding opportunities are need-based or merit-based, and some are specifically designed for underrepresented minorities, women, and other groups. Students are encouraged to consult with the financial aid office to learn more about the specific funding opportunities available to them and to develop a comprehensive financial plan for their education. Additionally, students may be able to apply for external scholarships and grants from professional organizations, foundations, and other sources to supplement their financial aid package.

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a world-renowned medical center and research institution located in Houston, Texas. It was established in 1941 as part of the University of Texas System and is dedicated exclusively to cancer patient care, research, education, and prevention. It is consistently ranked as one of the top cancer centers in the world and has been designated as a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.

The MD Anderson Cancer Center offers a wide range of services and programs to patients, including diagnostic and treatment services, clinical trials, supportive care services, and survivorship programs. Its research programs cover a broad range of cancer-related topics, from basic research into the molecular and genetic basis of cancer to clinical trials testing new treatments and therapies.

The institution also offers a number of educational and training programs, including medical residency and fellowship programs, as well as graduate programs in cancer biology, genetics and epigenetics, immunology, and more. The MD Anderson Cancer Center has a strong commitment to community outreach and education, with a variety of programs aimed at raising awareness of cancer prevention and early detection.

Programs

1. Cancer Biology Graduate Program
2. Cancer Prevention and Population Sciences Graduate Program
3. Clinical Cancer Genetics Program
4. Diagnostic Imaging Physics Residency Program
5. Head and Neck Surgery Fellowship Program
6. Hematopathology Fellowship Program
7. Radiation Oncology Residency Program
8. Oncology Pharmacy Residency Program
9. Graduate Medical Education (GME) Residency and Fellowship Programs

In addition to these programs, MD Anderson also offers specialized training and certification programs for healthcare professionals, such as continuing medical education courses, nursing education programs, and allied health training programs.

Acceptance Rate

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a highly competitive institution, and its acceptance rates can vary depending on the specific program. The acceptance rate for its graduate programs ranges from approximately 6-15%, depending on the program. However, it’s important to note that these programs typically have very specific admissions requirements and a rigorous application process, which can impact the acceptance rate. Overall, MD Anderson Cancer Center is known for its exceptional academic programs and high standards of excellence, which makes it a highly sought-after institution for cancer research and treatment.

Median MCAT Score

MD Anderson Cancer Center does not require the MCAT as part of its admissions process, as they do not offer traditional medical degree programs. Instead, they offer graduate programs in cancer research and healthcare administration, among others. Admission to these programs typically requires a strong academic background, relevant research or work experience, and a competitive application, which may include letters of recommendation, essays, and interviews. The specific admissions requirements and criteria can vary depending on the program, so it’s best to consult with the program directly for more information.

Tuition Fees and Funding Opportunities

As of the 2021-2022 academic year, the tuition fees for the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center vary depending on the program. For example, the Medical Physics program charges $10,000 per semester for Texas residents and $15,000 for non-residents, while the Cancer Biology program charges $3,750 per semester for both residents and non-residents.

MD Anderson offers various funding opportunities to its students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Some of the available sources of funding include the MD Anderson Fellowship Program, the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Training Program, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Training Grant. Students can also apply for external funding opportunities, such as those offered by private foundations and government agencies. Additionally, MD Anderson offers work-study programs and research assistant positions to help students cover their expenses.

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)

The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) is a public academic health center located in Galveston, Texas. It was founded in 1891 as the University of Texas Medical Department, and later became known as UTMB in 1969. UTMB comprises four schools: The School of Medicine, the School of Nursing, the School of Health Professions, and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. It also includes three hospitals, several clinics and research facilities, and a level 1 trauma center. UTMB is known for its research in various fields, including infectious diseases, cancer, and neuroscience.

Programs

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) offers a range of programs in the fields of medicine, nursing, health professions, and biomedical sciences. Some of the major programs include:

1. School of Medicine: The School of Medicine offers a four-year program leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in medicine and includes classroom instruction, clinical training, and research opportunities.
2. School of Nursing: The School of Nursing offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in nursing. The programs are designed to prepare students for a career in nursing and provide them with the knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality patient care.
3. School of Health Professions: The School of Health Professions offers a range of programs in various health-related fields, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, and clinical laboratory sciences.
4. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences: The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences offers PhD and master’s degree programs in biomedical sciences. The programs are designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and other biomedical fields.
5. School of Medicine at UTMB Health – Rio Grande Valley: The School of Medicine at UTMB Health – Rio Grande Valley is located in Harlingen, Texas, and offers a four-year program leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.
6. School of Medicine at UTMB Health – Austin: The School of Medicine at UTMB Health – Austin is located in Austin, Texas, and offers a four-year program leading to the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in medicine and includes classroom instruction, clinical training, and research opportunities.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) varies depending on the program and the number of applicants. It’s important to note that acceptance rates can also fluctuate from year to year. Generally, UTMB has a competitive admissions process, and the acceptance rate for its programs can be lower than some other universities.

For example, the acceptance rate for the UTMB School of Medicine is around 6%, which is quite low compared to other medical schools in the United States. Similarly, the acceptance rate for the UTMB School of Nursing is around 20%, which is also competitive. The acceptance rate for other programs at UTMB may vary and can be higher or lower depending on the specific program and the applicant pool.

It’s important to keep in mind that meeting the minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee acceptance to UTMB programs. Applicants should aim to exceed the minimum requirements and present a strong application with excellent grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and relevant experience.

Median MCAT Score

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) requires applicants to submit MCAT scores as part of the application process for its School of Medicine. The median MCAT score for matriculating students at UTMB varies from year to year and can depend on the applicant pool.

According to the most recent data available for the UTMB School of Medicine class of 2024, the median MCAT score was 510, with a range of 492-528. It’s important to note that meeting the median score does not guarantee acceptance to the program. Other factors, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements, are also considered in the admissions process.

Applicants should aim to achieve an MCAT score that is competitive with the median score for the program to increase their chances of acceptance. It’s important to research the specific program’s requirements and median scores to get a better idea of what is expected and how competitive the applicant pool is.

Tuition Fees and Funding Opportunities

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) tuition and fees vary depending on the program and whether the student is a Texas resident or not. Below is a general overview of the estimated tuition and fees for some of UTMB’s programs for the 2022-2023 academic year:

• School of Medicine (in-state): $19,142 per semester or $38,284 per year
• School of Medicine (out-of-state): $27,888 per semester or $55,776 per year
• School of Nursing (in-state): $6,249 per semester or $12,498 per year
• School of Nursing (out-of-state): $11,627 per semester or $23,254 per year
• School of Health Professions (in-state): $5,357 per semester or $10,714 per year
• School of Health Professions (out-of-state): $9,039 per semester or $18,078 per year
• Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (in-state): $5,162 per semester or $10,324 per year
• Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (out-of-state): $8,483 per semester or $16,966 per year

It’s important to note that these costs do not include additional expenses such as books, supplies, and living expenses.

UTMB offers various funding opportunities to help students pay for their education, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. These opportunities are available to both undergraduate and graduate students and can vary depending on the program and the student’s financial needs. UTMB encourages students to research and apply for all available funding opportunities to help minimize their out-of-pocket expenses.

Final Word

In this post, we looked at the top five medical schools in Texas according to the 2023 U.S. News & World Report ranks and reviewed their programs, acceptance rates, required MCAT scores, and tuition fee details. 

If you have further questions about the application process for each of these schools or need help with your medical school application, you can count on Jack Westin experts. We are here to help you get admitted to the medical school that best fits you and your unique academic qualifications.