Finding the right medical school is a critical decision for aspiring doctors. If you’re based in Walnut Creek, CA—or considering moving here—you’re in luck. This city, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, offers proximity to excellent medical schools with top-tier programs, rigorous training, and endless opportunities to launch your medical career.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about medical schools near Walnut Creek. From the benefits of studying in the region to a breakdown of the top schools, we’ll help you take the next step toward becoming a doctor.
Why Choose Walnut Creek for Medical Education?
A Thriving Healthcare Ecosystem
Walnut Creek is home to a robust healthcare system, with renowned hospitals and clinics such as John Muir Health and Kaiser Permanente. These institutions provide medical students with access to experienced professionals, real-world training, and resources for internships and residencies.
Proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley
Walnut Creek’s location gives you access to some of the most exciting healthcare and technology hubs in the world. The close proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley allows students to explore opportunities for medical research, biotech innovation, and partnerships in cutting-edge fields like AI in healthcare.
High Quality of Life
Known for its warm climate, abundant recreational options, and safe, family-friendly neighborhoods, Walnut Creek provides an excellent balance of academic focus and personal well-being.
Networking and Mentorship
With several healthcare organizations and medical education events happening regularly, Walnut Creek is a great place to network with professionals, meet mentors, and create connections that can shape your career path.
Top Medical Schools Near Walnut Creek
While Walnut Creek doesn’t have its own standalone medical school, it is conveniently located near world-class institutions. Here’s an overview of the top 10 medical schools within driving distance, their highlights, and admission requirements.
1. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- Location: San Francisco, CA (35 miles, ~1 hour drive)
- Highlights: UCSF is ranked among the top 10 medical schools in the U.S. Known for its research-intensive programs, it offers MD, dual MD-PhD, and master’s programs.
- Admission Criteria: Competitive GPA and MCAT scores, research experience, and a strong emphasis on community service.
- Explore more here.
2. Stanford University School of Medicine
- Location: Palo Alto, CA (45 miles, ~1.5-hour drive)
- Highlights: With an emphasis on innovation, Stanford is a leader in medical research and technology. The school offers opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration.
- Admission Criteria: High academic performance, exceptional MCAT scores, and personal qualities like leadership.
- Visit Stanford.
3. Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine (TUCOM)
- Location: Vallejo, CA (30 miles, ~40-minute drive)
- Highlights: TUCOM trains future physicians with a focus on holistic care and osteopathic medicine.
- Admission Criteria: Competitive GPA, MCAT performance, and demonstrated interest in osteopathic medicine.
- Learn more here.
4. California Northstate University College of Medicine
- Location: Elk Grove, CA (65 miles, ~1.5-hour drive)
- Highlights: A newer medical school with a focus on serving underserved communities, California Northstate offers clinical opportunities early in the curriculum.
- Admission Criteria: Moderate-to-competitive GPA and MCAT, with a focus on healthcare service.
- Details here.
5. University of California, Davis School of Medicine
- Location: Sacramento, CA (65 miles, ~1.5-hour drive)
- Highlights: UC Davis is known for its rural medicine and primary care training programs.
- Admission Criteria: Strong academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and commitment to patient care.
- Find more here.
6. Samuel Merritt University
- Location: Oakland, CA (20 miles, ~30-minute drive)
- Highlights: While specializing in health sciences like podiatric medicine, Samuel Merritt also offers preparatory programs for future medical students.
- Admission Criteria: Pre-health coursework and an interest in health professions.
- Learn more here.
7. UC Berkeley-UCSF Joint Medical Program (JMP)
- Location: Berkeley, CA (20 miles, ~30-minute drive)
- Highlights: This five-year program combines medical education with a master’s degree in public health.
- Admission Criteria: Exceptional MCAT scores, GPA, and an interest in public health.
- Details here.
8. University of the Pacific Pre-Health Program
- Location: Stockton, CA (50 miles, ~1-hour drive)
- Highlights: While not a medical school, this program lays the foundation for medical studies with strong mentorship and early exposure to clinical settings.
- Admission Criteria: Interest in health professions and strong pre-med coursework.
- Find more here.
9. University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
- Location: Reno, NV (180 miles, ~3-hour drive)
- Highlights: Offers a diverse set of clinical rotations in areas like rural medicine and urban care.
- Admission Criteria: Competitive GPA and MCAT, and a strong resume showing dedication to healthcare.
- Explore here.
10. California State University, East Bay
- Location: Hayward, CA (15 miles, ~25-minute drive)
- Highlights: Known for its post-baccalaureate pre-med program, which prepares students for medical school admissions.
- Admission Criteria: Completed undergrad with pre-med requisites.
- Visit here.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medical School
Your decision to attend a medical school will define your career. Here are the factors to weigh while deciding:
Academic Focus and Programs: Each medical school has unique strengths. UCSF might be ideal for research enthusiasts, while Stanford shines in medical technology.
Proximity to Walnut Creek: Consider transportation and whether you’ll commute or relocate. A shorter commute saves time and energy.
Financial Considerations: Tuition, living expenses, and scholarships vary. Some schools provide financial aid based on merit or need.
Clinical Opportunities: Schools near Walnut Creek often offer partnerships with John Muir Health or Kaiser Permanente for hands-on learning.
Cultural Fit: Do you prefer a research-heavy school or one focused on clinical care? Visit schools (if possible) to see where you feel at home.
Preparing for Medical School Admission
Getting into medical school is no small feat. Here’s how to prepare effectively.
Academic Preparation
- GPA: Aim for an overall GPA above 3.5.
- MCAT: Score in the competitive range (usually 510 or higher).
Clinical Experience
Internships, shadowing doctors, or volunteering in hospitals show your commitment to the profession.
Personal Statement
Craft a compelling story about why medicine is important to you.
Networking and Letters of Recommendation
Seek letters from professors or supervisors familiar with your academic ability and dedication to healthcare.
Your Medical Journey Starts Here
Choosing the right medical school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a future physician. Walnut Creek places you at the center of some of the finest institutions in California and beyond—and with the right preparation, you’re setting yourself up for success.
Take your time, research thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to visit the campuses that catch your eye. Your white coat is waiting!
Build a Strong Foundation for your Medical Career
While exploring the medical schools in Walnut Creek, don’t forget to consider the additional resources available to enhance your training and qualifications. Safety Training Seminars, a trusted provider of American Heart Association courses, offers essential certifications and training in life-saving skills right here in Walnut Creek. Our courses, such as CPR and First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), can complement your medical education and equip you with crucial knowledge and skills in emergency situations.
Contact us today for detailed information about upcoming classes, convenient registration options, and special discounts available exclusively to students.
