SJV PRIME+ BS/MD Program External Talking Points
Program Overview
The SJV PRIME+ BS/MD Program is a unique partnership between UC Merced, UCSF Fresno, and UCSF School of Medicine designed to educate the next generation of physicians committed to serving California's San Joaquin Valley.
Students complete an integrated eight-year program that includes a Bachelor of Science degree at UC Merced and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the UCSF School of Medicine.
The program was created to address physician shortages and improve access to healthcare in the San Joaquin Valley by preparing future physicians who understand and are committed to the region.
Why It Stands Out
- · Direct pathway from undergraduate education to medical school through conditional admission to UCSF School of Medicine.
- No MCAT required for students who successfully meet all program milestones.
- · Personalized advising, faculty mentorship, and professional development throughout the program.
- · Early exposure to research, clinical experiences, physician shadowing, and community engagement.
- · Strong emphasis on health equity, leadership, and serving medically underserved communities.
- · The goal is not simply to educate physicians, but to prepare physician leaders who will improve healthcare in California's San Joaquin Valley.
- · Students may pursue any medical specialty
- · Graduates earn an MD from one of the nation's leading medical schools—UCSF School of Medicine.
SJV PRIME+ Program
Students complete:
- A qualifying Bachelors of Science Degree from UC Merced (4 years)
- A Doctor of Medicine (MD) Degree from the UCSF School of Medicine.
- The first phase (18 months) of the UCSF School of Medicine curriculum is delivered at the UC Merced Regional Medical Education campus
- Clinical training and advanced medical education through UCSF Fresno
Who Should Apply?
SJV PRIME+ is designed for students who:
- Are current high school seniors applying as first-time freshmen.
- Have a strong academic foundation, particularly in math and science.
- Demonstrate leadership, service, and sustained commitment to their communities.
- Are passionate about becoming physicians and improving healthcare access in the San Joaquin Valley.
Eligible Undergraduate Majors
Students enter UC Merced in one of four qualifying majors:
- Biological Sciences
- Bioengineering
- Chemistry
- Public Health
Application Highlights
Required application components
- UC Application to UC Merced with an eligible major.
- SJV PRIME+ Supplemental Application.
- Two recommendation forms
Admission is highly selective and includes a holistic review that considers academics, leadership, community engagement, healthcare experiences, and commitment to serving the San Joaquin Valley.
Questions
For additional information, please contact primeplus@ucmerced.edu
