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Life Sciences Preparatory Program for Four-Year Medical Studies

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Life Sciences Preparatory Program for Four-Year Medical Studies

As part of its interdisciplinary vision, Reichman University has established a life sciences learning and research program. The university is home to advanced laboratories and research institutes, including the Scojen Institute for Synthetic Biology and the Ruth and Meir Rosenthal Brain Imaging Center (MRI), among others.

In addition, the university offers undergraduate degrees in Computer Science and Psychology with a minor in Life Sciences. The establishment of the Dina Recanati School of Medicine has enabled the expansion of the university’s core life sciences training, providing graduates from various disciplines with the opportunity to deepen and broaden their knowledge through an additional year of study.

This unique preparatory program equips candidates with the academic foundation for medical studies and enables them to apply for the four-year MD program. Program Highlights >>

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Dr. Miri Mizrahi Reuveni, MD, MHA

Head of the program

Prof. Gideon Rechavi, MD, PhD

Academic Advisor

Dr. Shay Dvir, MD

Program Director

Dr. Liat Rahamim-Ben Navi, PhD

Program Director

About this program

The program is designed for students who have completed or are currently pursuing their undergraduate degree.
Graduates of the program will be equipped to integrate into research and industry settings, and may apply for the four-year MD Program at Reichman University, subject to meeting the admission requirements and passing the screening process.
The curriculum is structured as a one-year program, with the option of a more flexible schedule tailored to individual student needs.
Please note: The opening of the program is contingent upon a minimum number of enrolled students.

Program Highlights

The program duration is one academic year and includes:

Foundations of Chemistry course (4 Credits), as preparation for the core studies
Seven core prerequisite courses: Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physiology, Genetics, and Statistics (totaling 30 Credits)
Hebrew Ulpan studies (for those who require it)
A preparatory workshop for the Knowledge Exam, in Hebrew or English (8 Credits)

All courses will be taught in English.
The program offers a modular and personalized learning path, enabling students to select the core courses, Hebrew Ulpan, and the Knowledge Exam preparation based on their academic background and needs.

Core Courses

- Lecturer: Larissa Fine
  
  This course offers a basic foundation in chemistry, exploring the key principles governing the structure of matter and material interactions. Coursework includes atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, and an introduction to chemical kinetics and equilibrium. Students will develop analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on applying theoretical concepts to real-world scientific and daily scenarios.
  
  4 Credits
- Lecturers: Michal Taler, Liat Rahamim Ben Navi
  
  Cellular activity in living organisms relies on a variety of biochemical processes involving diverse organic molecules.
  This course begins by exploring the fundamental atoms and molecules that comprise our world, along with the various chemical bonds and reactions between them. Students will then study the structural and functional diversity of the four major groups of biological compounds: nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Understanding these molecules is essential for comprehending life processes at both the single-cell and whole-organism levels, as well as the disorders and diseases resulting from their disruption. A central focus of the course is metabolism: the complex of chemical-enzymatic processes through which organisms uptake, store, and process substances to generate energy and eliminate waste.
  
  4 Credits
- Lecturer: Limor Shtoots
  
  The objective of this course is to introduce fundamental concepts in the biology of the living cell. Understanding cell structure and function serves as the foundation for comprehending tissue mechanics and the activity of the entire organism. The curriculum covers cell structure, organelles, and tissue organization, highlighting how structure supports function within the complete organism. We will discuss the diverse range of cells in the living body and examine how their specific structures enable their unique activities.
  
  4 Credits
- Lecturers: Gil Leor, Amit Novik, Inbal Goldstein (Coordinator)
  
  3 Credits
- Lecturers: Gil Leor, Amit Novik
  
  1 Credit
- Lectirers: Milana Morgenstern, Gidi Rechavi, Milit Marom, Noa Ruhrman
  
  This comprehensive course provides an in-depth introduction to the fundamental principles of genetics and their diverse applications in modern medicine. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the curriculum covers a wide range of topics - from Mendelian inheritance and chromosomal variation to gene editing, cancer genomics, and public health genetics. We will also explore complex traits, pharmacogenetics, epigenetics, gene expression regulation, and the ethical implications of genetic testing. The course incorporates advanced bioinformatics tools (e.g., BLAST, NCBI, OMIM) and reviews liquid biopsy technologies for the early diagnosis of cancer and heart disease. Additionally, students will study population genetics and Neanderthal genomics. Designed for students seeking a strong foundation in medical genetics, the course emphasizes critical thinking, ethical sensitivity, and practical applications in the era of personalized medicine. A background in biology is recommended.
  
  3 Credits
- Lecturers: Efrat Shavit-Stein, Neta Zilony, Galia Yablonski
  
  The human body is a sophisticated functional system where all components interconnect to create a harmonious whole that sustains life. Brain activity and mental state influence the nervous system, which in turn impacts the digestive system and the muscles that drive action. Physiology explores biology from the cellular level through tissues and organs to the entire organism. In this course, students will examine how various bodily mechanisms function and interact, with a special emphasis on the maintenance of internal balance (homeostasis). We will focus on the principles of physiology, specifically covering the nervous, muscular, and digestive systems.
  A strong grasp of normal physiological processes serves as a solid foundation for understanding the pathological processes underlying disease development.
  
  4 Credits
- Lecturers: Gal Cafri, Anat Shemer
  
  The course aims to provide a deep understanding of the scientific foundations of molecular biology and the emerging technologies utilizing these principles, such as RNA vaccines and gene therapy. We will analyze and reverse engineer molecular biology technologies to gain a profound understanding of fundamental biological mechanisms, including DNA structure and coding, RNA transcription and translation, gene expression regulation, and the molecular distinctions between various organisms. The curriculum also addresses technological applications for treating autoimmune diseases. Beyond classical molecular biology, students will gain in-depth exposure to cutting-edge technologies and explore future directions in the field. The course teaching laboratory will be led by Prof. Yehuda Shoenfeld.
  
  4 Credits
- Lecturers: Ilana Kolodkin, Nati Keller
  
  Microbiology is a long-standing field of biological research that intersects with biotechnology, medicine, and computer science. It focuses on the structure and function of microorganisms, comprising several key sub-disciplines: the study of bacteria (bacteriology), viruses (virology), fungi (mycology), and parasites (parasitology). This course covers pathogen diagnosis and treatments, addressing the delicate balance between bacteria and humans as well as the factors driving infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, students will explore topics such as vaccines, biodefense, bioterrorism, and pandemics including Tuberculosis, Malaria, and COVID-19. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of disciplines and the analysis of case studies.
  
  4 Credits
- 8 Credits

Life Sciences Program Schedule

Program Start Date: October 2026
Preparatory Course: The “Foundations of Chemistry” course will be offered during the first semester
Core Courses: Held two afternoons a week and Friday mornings
Hebrew Ulpan: Held five mornings a week
Medical Knowledge Exam Workshop: A three-month intensive program followed by a four-day review marathon before the exam

Questions & Answers

1 answers

The program includes:
• Introductory course in Fundamentals of Chemistry (4 credits)
• 7 Core Courses: Biochemistry (4 credits), Cell Biology (4 credits), Genetics (3 credits), Physiology (4 credits), Molecular Biology (4 credits), Microbiology (4 credits), and Statistics (3 credits).
• Knowledge Exam Preparation Course (8 credits).
• Registration fees for the Reichman University Knowledge Exam.
Note: It is possible to take a partial program (one or more courses), in which case the pricing will vary.
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The total cost for the full program (7 Courses + Hebrew Ulpan + Knowledge Exam Prep) – 18,500$
For those who choose a partial program, the pricing may vary.
1 answers

Yes. Reichman University students are eligible for a 10% discount.
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The program is designed as a one-year track. However, it can be spread over a longer period to meet the student's individual needs.
Note: Extending the program beyond one year does not affect the total cost (subject to prior coordination and registering for each course once, according to regulations).
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The program is open to students and graduates from all academic backgrounds.
Admission to the preparatory program does not guarantee future acceptance to medical school. Eligibility for the medical school screening process depends on meeting all prerequisites (including the required degree GPA) and passing the personality assessment. Completion of the program itself does not grant exemption from these conditions.
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To successfully complete the program and qualify for admission to Reichman University Medical School, you must achieve a final grade of 75 or higher in each course, maintain a Bachelor's degree average of at least 80, and meet the required score on the Knowledge Exam for the relevant cycle.
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The preparatory year is designed to provide you with the best academic foundation for medical studies, but it does not constitute automatic admission. Program graduates undergo the standard screening process like all other applicants and must meet all academic thresholds.
Although admission is not guaranteed, the program provides significant advantages:
• Academic Alignment: Course content is specifically tailored to meet degree requirements and the structure of the "Knowledge Exam."
• Early Familiarization: Students gain in-depth knowledge of the academic system, requirements, and standards of the Reichman University School of Medicine.
• Success Support System: The program provides learning tools and skills focused on succeeding in the various screening stages.
1 answers

Since these are scientific courses, there is a logical progression to the learning process:
1. Fundamentals of Chemistry (Introductory course)
2. Cell Biology, Biochemistry, and Genetics
3. Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Physiology, and Statistics
1 answers

The English track is designed for English speakers residing in Israel and new immigrants (Olim). All lessons are held in English (Core courses, preparation for the knowledge Exam). The knowledge Exam itself can be conducted in English as well.
The program offers a Medical Ulpan (specialized Hebrew language studies for medicine) on campus for students who require it. Students combining the English track with Ulpan studies can choose between completing all requirements in one year or spreading their studies over several years.
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Classes are held physically on campus. Attendance is not mandatory but is highly recommended. All classes are recorded via Zoom, and these recordings will be available to students.
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The integration of courses is done based on academic priorities and the prevention of scheduling conflicts. Each student is responsible for managing their schedule as follows:
• Mandatory degree courses: It is not possible to register for a core preparatory course that conflicts with the hours of a mandatory course in your degree.
• Elective courses: If there is an overlap between the preparatory courses and your degree electives, you may contact your academic coordinators for an individual review to explore possible solutions and obtain approval.
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Yes, this is possible depending on your specific school’s curriculum and subject to approval by the administration.
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You may submit an official transcript and a detailed syllabus of the course(s) taken (from the original institution) to the program office. If an exemption is granted, it will be updated in the system following a review of the documents and official approval.
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Yes. The courses are recognized by all medical schools in Israel that offer a 4-year MD program.
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The Knowledge Exam is a central and decisive stage in the screening process for 4-year medical programs. It tests in-depth mastery and integrative knowledge in core fields: Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Physiology. The exam requires extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of the material. While the core courses provide the academic foundation, the Knowledge Exam builds upon this knowledge but demands a higher level of detail and more complex analytical skills. Our preparation course is designed to translate the academic foundation you have acquired into the specific skills needed to succeed in the exam.
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Requirements for medical studies vary by country; therefore, material studied abroad does not necessarily overlap with the Israeli curriculum and may not be recognized. You must conduct a review with the program office by presenting detailed syllabi and transcripts to determine the equivalent grade in Israel and the equivalency of the course credit hours compared to Israeli requirements. Exemptions for core courses will be granted subject to professional review and official approval.