Selecting a Major

Students planning to enter a medical, dental, optometry, podiatry, osteopathy, or chiropractic school after receiving a B.S. or B.A. degree should select a major department in the field of their greatest interest and ability.

Many students choose a major in the sciences; however, a major in the humanities, arts, or other field is perfectly acceptable. The minimum requirements for most health professional schools can be scheduled with little difficulty in virtually any major.

Minimum preparation for the pre-professional student must include one year of inorganic chemistry, one year of organic chemistry, two semesters of biology, one year of college mathematics and one year of physics. These courses are usually satisfied in two years and all of these courses must include laboratories. Certain additional courses in biology, chemistry, or mathematics may be required or recommended by some dental or medical schools.

Students are encouraged to consider spending one or two semesters studying abroad. Study abroad offers a valuable opportunity to enrich and gain perspective on preparation for medical school.

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