The Premedical Program | Undergraduate Programs | Postbaccalaureate Program | Advisory Committee | Course Requirements | Application Process | Premedical Links | Alumni |

All matriculated and postbaccalaureate students must successfully complete the following courses, designed to prepare for a successful application process to medical schools.

1.  Basic science requirements

These courses are generally required by professional schools, including medical, dental, and veterinary schools.

Some schools or professions may require additional courses, such as Biochemistry, Calculus or Microbiology.  Additional suggested courses are listed below.  Students are encouraged to survey requirements for schools where they plan to apply, to ensure that all requirements and most (if not all) recommended courses have been included in their academic plan.  In some cases, students interested in allied health careers may substitute certain other prerequisite courses at the discretion of the Advisory Committee.

2. Advanced science courses

In consultation with a Premedical Advisor, students select a minimum of two advanced courses based upon their interests and/or deficiencies. Many medical schools either recommend or require certain advanced science courses. It is also beneficial to demonstrate the student's capability to successfully undertake more rigorous courses in the sciences, and the extra studies may improve the student's chances for success once enrolled in the professional school. In some cases, credit for prior academic work may be given for one or both of these courses at the discretion of the committee.

3. Clinical or research experiences

Commitment to a medical career should be founded upon experiences which demonstrate knowledge of the actual realities of the medical professions, and be based upon personal experiences. This requirement may be fulfilled by a variety of internship or volunteer clinical experiences, as well as previous or current employment. Internship opportunities may be explored through discussions with a faculty advisor, or the Career Development Center.

4. Professional entrance examinations

Most, but not all, professional schools require an appropriate examination (MCAT, GRE, VCAT, etc.) which demonstrates proficiency in the basic sciences. Completion of the program’s required courses will cover the basic material expected for these exams. The MCAT is usually taken in the spring or summer of the year in which the student completes the application, with medical school matriculation expected in September of the following calendar year. In addition to regular coursework, commercial review courses are often available on or near the campus for a separate fee. Please visit the Career Development Center for more information. 

5. Committee Recommendation Letter

Those who wish the assistance of the Premedical Advisory Committee to provide a summary letter of recommendation (the “committee letter”) must establish and manage their own credential files with Interfolio.com well before the deadline and make certain that all materials, including letters and transcripts, are received on time. The Career Development Center offers services to students to assist with establishing the file and providing guidance through the application and interview process.

Student credential files should be complete by early April and the Career Development Center must be notified. Students can then request to schedule their Premedical Committee interview through the Career Development Center. For additional information contact the Career Development Center or a member of the Premedical Advisory Committee.