u/Hamambae

Hi all,

I was accepted into the DMS program at SAIT starting September 2026, and I’m looking forward to getting started.

I know it’s a competitive program to get into, so I’m grateful to have been accepted. I’ve been doing some research into DMS and the day-to-day work, and it’s something I can see myself enjoying.

For context, I’m coming from a software development background. I graduated into a bad job market and found it difficult to get into the field, which pushed me to pivot out of it. Stability and employability were definitely factors in choosing DMS, but I also want to make sure I’m going into something that’s a good fit long-term.

I had a few questions for current students or grads:

• How is the program structured in terms of workload and schedule? Six courses per semester sounds intense—what does a typical week look like?
• Are the days full of holes like other programs usually are, where you'll have lots of open slots between classes?
• Are there certain courses that are especially challenging or time-consuming?
• Is the program taught assuming no prior medical background, or do most students come in with healthcare experience?
• How does the cohort system work? 40 people (from what I've read) in the program seems high. Are you usually in the same group for everything, or split into smaller sections?
• What’s the general demographic like (age range, career changers vs. straight from high school)?
• Did you take open studies to lighten the course load before starting, and if so, was it worth it, or is it fine to leave the courses for the program?
• Is there any free time outside of the program, or is most of your time going to be put towards studying?
• Any advice you wish you had before starting?

I’d really appreciate any insight—thanks in advance!