The Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) at Brown University has its roots in the original six-year Master of Medical Science Program. In 1974, this evolved into the Medical Education Program (MEP), a seven-year baccalaureate-to-MD track that combined undergraduate studies with medical training.

By 1985, the program began a transformation from the highly structured seven-year MEP, focused on a prescribed Master of Medical Science curriculum, to the more flexible eight-year PLME. This new program extended the undergraduate experience by an additional year, introduced a broader range of electives, and emphasized the importance of the humanities, social sciences, and behavioral sciences. The shift also moved the focus from rigid course requirements to developing core competencies, allowing students greater academic freedom.

As the Medical School transitioned to an integrated curriculum, PLME updated its undergraduate competency expectations, particularly in biology and the social sciences and humanities. At the same time, PLME advising was restructured to focus exclusively on the four undergraduate years, with each student assigned a dedicated advisor who supports them throughout their entire undergraduate journey.

Today, the PLME continues to offer a unique, interdisciplinary education that integrates a liberal arts undergraduate experience with a guaranteed pathway to Brown’s Alpert Medical School. The program encourages students to pursue diverse academic interests and to develop the intellectual flexibility, creativity, and social awareness necessary for leadership in medicine and beyond.