General Questions
MBKU currently offers these programs:
- OD – Doctor of Optometry
- MS – Master of Science in Vision Science
- MMS – Master of Medical Science (PA program)
- PharmD - Doctor of Pharmacy
Information about tuition cost and financial aid can be found here: https://ketchum.edu/pa-admissions/cost-aid
Yes! We have several ways for you to tour our campus. Check the Events page for details and to schedule your tour!
We don’t accept transfer students.
Foreign students may be accepted, however, all prerequisites must be completed at a regionally accredited institution in the United States.
The current class size averages 50 students.
About Applying & Interviews
To be considered for admission to the School of PA Studies, a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university or equivalent institution, as determined by MBKU, is required.
Applicants educated outside the U.S. must utilize a transcript evaluation service to verify their degree and coursework.
No.
Although we do not have a minimum, we recommend applicants possess a minimum of the following:
- Overall GPA of 3.0
- Science GPA of 3.0
- Prerequisite GPA of 3.0
- Last 60 hours GPA of 3.0
No, the GRE is not required.
No, prerequisite courses do not expire. However, Human Anatomy with lab and Human Physiology with lab must be taken in the last 7 years.
SPAS requires three LORs for admission. Letters must be submitted directly to CASPA on or before September 1. SPAS requires a minimum of three (3) letters of recommendation. Reference letters should not be from personal friends or family members. We strongly recommend letters from at least (1) clinician and someone you have known for 6 months. Be sure to review all information about requesting, formatting and submitting LORs on the CASPA website.
Yes. Advanced Placement (AP) credits will be accepted only for the following coursework: General Psychology and Statistics.
While we do give additional consideration for previous experience or medical training, we do not use them or any other criteria to grant advanced placement into the PA program. All students are expected to complete all of the curriculum’s didactic and clinical elements.
Yes, as long as the school is regionally accredited and the courses do not require a lab (labs must be completed in a classroom setting). Virtual hands-on, take-home labs will be accepted. Coursework may be completed at community college.
Please email the Admissions Office with the school's name, course title, course number and description or a link to the course description in the school's course catalog and we will be happy to review the coursework for you.
From the time you apply, it takes three to four weeks before we receive your verified application from CASPA. After we receive your application, you will then be prompted via email to pay a secondary application fee of $50.00.
No. That’s why it’s important to know and meet all application deadlines.
No. MBKU only conducts interviews in person, on campus.
Interviews are typically held from October to December.
FAQ for Accepted Students
To learn about the SPAS curriculum, please visit our Academics page.
MBKU has full-time library staff that’s ready to assist you. Visit the Ketchum Library website for complete information.
Yes. The fitness center is located on the main campus, next to the parking structure. It features locker rooms, showers, cardio equipment, free weights, weight machines and flat-screen TVs. Use of all fitness center amenities is free for all enrolled MBKU students. Prefer to exercise outdoors? You can take advantage the many hiking and biking trails nearby, as well as a beautiful regional park.
Area Around the Campus
Yes. Our main campus is located in a suburban neighborhood. Our seven-acre campus borders Cal State Fullerton, a fire station, residential communities, and a greenbelt with a stream. It is common to see MBKU and Cal State students walking home from campus in the evening. Campus security staff monitors the grounds 24/7 to provide an extra measure of safety.
Of course, it’s Southern California! Living in or around Fullerton gives you access to all the attractions that draw people to this part of the country, including:
- Beaches
- Amusement and Theme Parks
- Sporting Events
- Arts and Entertainment
- Nightlife
- Mountains
MBKU is located in an affordable, safe, residential area where pedestrian traffic is common. Within a mile or two of the main campus there are grocery stores, pharmacies, department stores, and countless places to eat. Most everything you need to be comfortable is within walking distance, and there is some public transportation. However, to get to the beach, the mountains, theme parks, LA nightlife and other local attractions, you will need a car or know someone who has one.
Fullerton is known as a college town with many amenities for its many students, including student-friendly housing that’s close to the campus. Currently, more than half of those who attend MBKU live within a mile of the school. There are many housing options and costs do vary. Email us today to request additional housing information.