The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has played a significant role in the establishment and development of Brigham Young University (BYU), including its medical school. In 1875, Brigham Young, the second president of the Church, founded Brigham Young Academy, which would eventually become Brigham Young University. The university's mission was to provide a unique blend of spiritual and intellectual education, with the goal of producing well-rounded individuals who could make a positive impact in their communities.
In the early 20th century, the Church's leaders recognized the need for a medical school that would provide training for doctors who could serve the growing membership of the Church, particularly in the western United States. In 1974, the First Presidency announced plans to establish a medical school at BYU, which would be known as the BYU College of Biology and Agriculture, with a pre-medical program. However, it wasn't until 2014 that the university announced plans to establish a doctoral program in medical physiology, and in 2016, the university's board of trustees approved the establishment of a medical school, which would be known as the BYU College of Medicine.
BYU College of Medicine

The BYU College of Medicine is a private medical school located in Provo, Utah. The college offers a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree, as well as several combined degree programs, including an M.D./M.B.A. and an M.D./M.P.H. The college’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the basic sciences, as well as clinical training in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.
The BYU College of Medicine has a strong focus on primary care, with an emphasis on preparing students to practice medicine in rural and underserved areas. The college has established partnerships with several healthcare organizations, including Intermountain Healthcare and the University of Utah Health, to provide students with clinical training opportunities. The college has also established a number of research programs, including programs in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health.
Curriculum and Admissions
The BYU College of Medicine’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the basic sciences and clinical medicine. The curriculum includes coursework in subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, and pharmacology, as well as clinical training in a variety of settings. The college also offers several elective courses, including courses in medical ethics, healthcare policy, and global health.
Admissions to the BYU College of Medicine are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 5%. The college requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, as well as a strong academic record, including a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and submit letters of recommendation from academic and professional mentors.
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 5% |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| MCAT Average | 510 |
| Tuition | $55,000 per year |

Key Points
- The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints played a significant role in the establishment and development of Brigham Young University, including its medical school.
- The BYU College of Medicine offers a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree, as well as several combined degree programs.
- The college has a strong focus on primary care, with an emphasis on preparing students to practice medicine in rural and underserved areas.
- Admissions to the BYU College of Medicine are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 5%.
- The college requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, as well as a strong academic record, including a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Research and Community Engagement

The BYU College of Medicine is committed to advancing the field of medicine through research and community engagement. The college has established a number of research programs, including programs in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health. Faculty members and students are also involved in a variety of community outreach and service projects, including health fairs, free clinics, and health education programs.
The college has also established partnerships with several community organizations, including the Utah Department of Health and the American Heart Association. These partnerships provide students with opportunities to engage in service projects and research initiatives that address the health needs of underserved communities.
Global Health Initiatives
The BYU College of Medicine is also committed to global health initiatives, with a focus on providing healthcare services to underserved communities around the world. The college has established partnerships with several international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Students and faculty members are involved in a variety of global health projects, including projects in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These projects provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in global health, while also addressing the healthcare needs of underserved communities.
What is the mission of the BYU College of Medicine?
+The mission of the BYU College of Medicine is to provide a unique blend of spiritual and intellectual education, with the goal of producing well-rounded individuals who can make a positive impact in their communities.
What types of degree programs does the BYU College of Medicine offer?
+The BYU College of Medicine offers a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree, as well as several combined degree programs, including an M.D./M.B.A. and an M.D./M.P.H.
What is the acceptance rate for the BYU College of Medicine?
+The acceptance rate for the BYU College of Medicine is around 5%.
In conclusion, the BYU College of Medicine is a unique and innovative medical school that is committed to providing students with a comprehensive education in the basic sciences and clinical medicine. With a strong focus on primary care, rural medicine, and global health initiatives, the college is helping to address the healthcare needs of underserved communities around the world. As a private medical school located in Provo, Utah, the BYU College of Medicine is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a high-quality medical education with a strong spiritual foundation.