Tufts MBS Program’s Curriculum Positions Aspiring Medical and Dental Students for Future Success

March 11, 2025

How the Tufts Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) program helps aspiring medical and dental students succeed through its curriculum, exam preparation, and collaborative learning.

Group of students sitting and chatting before class

If you're considering medical or dental school but feel like your undergraduate record needs a boost, the Tufts MBS program—a special master’s—could be the stepping-stone you need. Tailored for students who want to improve their academic foundation and enhance their competitiveness as applicants to top medical and dental schools, the Tufts Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to help students thrive in these rigorous fields.

A Curriculum Designed for Medical and Dental School Success

The structure of the MBS program is intentionally crafted to support students on their journey to medical and dental school. According to James Kubilus, PhD, program director, “The structure of the MBS curriculum was designed with several key elements that have helped our graduates go on to be successful in dental and medical schools, whether that’s here at Tufts, or other programs throughout the country.”

The Tufts MBS curriculum mirrors the foundational science courses in medical and dental programs, giving students a solid foundation. “Mirroring the content of the foundational science coursework in the MD program gives students confidence that they can succeed,” Kubilus elaborates. “It’s challenging, but also rewarding, and through advising and tutoring, we ensure that all of our students are supported.”

Suzanne Smith, MD, a current faculty member in the program and MBS alum, attests to the value of the program in her own journey to medical school. “Truthfully, all the courses I took in MBS were extremely helpful when I got to medical school,” she says. “The foundational courses made my first year of medical school significantly easier as I was very prepared for the courses. Core information 'stuck' a lot better."

The MBS program also mimics the exam formats used in the MCAT and DAT, helping students build the test-taking skills they need for the future. “Our exam structure prepares students for the multiple-choice tests they’ll face in medical and dental school,” Kubilus says.

Moreover, the program’s integrated approach teaches topics holistically. “While students are learning about the anatomy of the heart, they are also learning about the physiology and pathology of the cardiovascular system,” says Kubilus, reinforcing the importance of holistic learning and preparation.

Collaboration & Community Support

Another unique feature of the Tufts MBS program is its emphasis on collaboration over competition. The program fosters an environment where students work together, building skills that are crucial for success in medical and dental school. “In the MBS program, we strive to be collaborative and non-competitive,” Kubilus explains. “Building the ability to work with others is one of the parts of the program that helps our students grow.”

This culture of support extends beyond the classroom, with students engaging in study groups, group presentations, and serving as teaching assistants, tutors, and mentors for future MBS students. This collaborative spirit mirrors the teamwork required in medical and dental schools, where students often work together in clinical settings—but as an added benefit create a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.

Real-World Experience from an MBS Alum

The Tufts MBS program doesn’t just provide academic rigor—it also prepares students for the real-world demands of medical and dental schools. Dr. Smith, who now teaches anatomy across several Tufts programs, credits her MBS experience as a key factor in her preparedness for medical school and beyond. “I think the unique combination of clinical experience, academic rigor, and teaching roles that I gained throughout my studies has provided me with a strong understanding of medical knowledge and how to apply it.”

Dr. Smith’s experience as a student in the program has also prepared her to be a better teacher. “I know what it’s like to be in students’ shoes, ,” she reflects. “I know the stress and volume of information that comes with these programs, and my goal as a teacher is to provide positivity, encouragement, and make the stressful process a little better."

Dr. Smith’s experience is a great example of the MBS program’s ability to help students thrive in both academics and real-world healthcare settings.

Start Your Journey at Tufts

The Tufts MBS program is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of students aiming to build a competitive academic profile for medical and dental school admissions. It also helps students develop the personal growth and collaborative skills essential for success in healthcare careers. Whether you're seeking to strengthen your academic record or gain the skills necessary for excelling in a health sciences program, Tufts is the place where your future begins.

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