Students studying

Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies

Pre-med majors aren’t the official title of the degree earned in school, but it’s a simple way of saying that the next step is to become a medical professional, usually an MD or DO. Pre-med students can major in just about any subject, not just in biological or physical sciences. Applying a pre-med track to majors such as Sociology, Statistics, English Literature, and Spanish come with a variety of benefits, some of which include excellent communication, research methodology, problem solving, and adept critical analysis, which can be valuable for testing into medical school.

Regardless of the chosen major, though, medical schools require a certain number and type of classes to be completed.

At the bare minimum, most med schools require:

  • One year of biology with lab

  • One year of general chemistry with lab

  • One year of organic chemistry with lab

  • One year of physics with lab

  • At least one semester of biochemistry

  • A math course (varies based on school)

  • One year of English

Every institution has a different series of requirements, though, so be prepared to satisfy all requirements. These requirements are in place for two reasons: to lay the foundation for graduate work, but also to score well on the MCAT, the Medical College Admission Test.

The goal for most pre-med students is to graduate with a baccalaureate and head straight to medical school, and carefully planning out your pre-requisites schedule and MCAT testing day are required to accomplish that.  Pre-med students must complete their required pre-med course by Fall of their junior year to prepare for the MCAT the second semester of that same year. The very latest a student can take the MCAT to move directly into medical school after graduating is the end of their junior year, in early May. Application submission dates for med school start on June 3rd, secondary application from July to September, and interviews will begin in September and conclude in March of senior year. It’s a much longer, more involved process than many other majors, so being prepared and meticulous with scheduling is a must.

There are also options that include taking 1 to 2 years off after graduate school, depending on completion of the pre-requisites and MCAT testing day.

Medical schools look at three things when reviewing applications: GPA, MCAT, and experience. As for the GPA, they look at the entire culmination of schooling as well as the BCPM (biology, chemistry, physics, and math) GPA, so high grades are an absolute must. For the MCAT, the most common score accepted is 509 of 528, while the average score is 500. Keep that in mind and aim for 509 or higher to be at the most competitive level. Volunteering or working an internship, within the medical industry or not, is closely reviewed by medical institutions when tendering acceptance. Any experience that involves communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills is notable.

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Colleges

Pennsylvania State University-University Park

Pennsylvania State University, Penn State, is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university with a main campus in University Park. This public research institution was founded in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the US by student body. Its...

“…

Penn State is a first class University. Professors are both well informed and intriguing. Even the biggest lecture classes can seem like an engaging one on one meeting. The class listings also are very various and allow for much customization in...

” – Eric from Winburne, PA
University of Chicago

An Educational Ideal

A liberal arts college amidst a world-renowned research university, the University of Chicago offers a dynamic education, where over 7,000 students from 50 states and 100 countries encounter great thinkers, sharpen critical...

“…

The classes are very educational and require a lot of focus. The best part is the university understands this, and so there are a lot of opportunities to get help from free tutors and TA's almost every day throughout the quarter.

” – Faisal from Los Angeles, CA
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Boston University is a private, non-profit university with a heavy emphasis on research. BU’s main location is right in its name—Boston, MA—but the university has flagship locations around the world, including in London, Sydney, and Washington, DC...

“…

The faculty is usually attentive and pretty entertaining. Most professors know exactly what they're talking about and provide insight into difficult fields with ease. I took the Core Curriculum and am learning much about history and philosophy. I...

” – Alex from Waco, TX
Arizona State University  – Tempe campus

Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university that measures itself by whom it includes and how they succeed; advances research and discovery of public value; and assumes fundamental responsibility for the economic, social...

“…

Arizona State was my top choice based on the wide spread of classes offered, the great education, and the world changing young men and woman that have prospered out of ASU. My classes are challenging but with hard work A's are capable. I no longer...

” – Joel from Chandler, AZ
University of Arizona

Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, hundreds of degree options, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and impact, the university's research and...

“…

Not all of the learning you do is academic. Much of my first year was personal growth learning. Just be expected for both.

” – Alexis from Phoenix, AZ
University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...

“…

University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...

” – Thomas from Houston, TX
Northwestern University

Northwestern University is a 4-year private research institution in the Chicagoland area. Northwestern is home to 12 colleges and schools and is renowned for its Medill School of Journalism, Kellogg School of Management, and Bienen School of Music...

“…

If you can to learn, you will. The professors don't spoon-feed information - instead, they give you the tools to learn the subjects yourself. Also, just hanging out with people (students, and sometimes students hang out with professors) helps you...

” – Allison from Port Barrington, IL
Baylor University

Founded in 1845 by the Baptist General Convention of Texas, Baylor University is a 4-year Christian institution and the oldest continuously-operating university in Texas. Baylor offers bachelor’s degrees in 128 academic fields of study. As a...

“…

Perhaps my favorite thing about Baylor is the opportunity I have had as an honor student to have the interdisciplinary major called University Scholars. If you have high enough SAT's and enough AP classes and a good application essay, you can be...

” – Meaghan from Keller, TX
University of Maryland-College Park

Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland-College Park is a 4-year public research university in Maryland’s Capital Region and the flagship campus of the UMD system. UMD hosts 12 colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees in 92 academic...

“…

At the University of Maryland, you learn so much more than just facts and truths from textbooks and lectures. While the classes are extremely informational, and the professors and T.A.s are all very knowledgeable on their subjects, the real learning...

” – Anonymous from PA
Clemson University

Clemson University is America’s second-largest university by student population and South Carolina’s land- and sea-grant institution. Clemson is home to seven colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in more than 80 academic majors. For...

“…

Not only do I learn a lot of material from the textbooks and outstanding professors, but Clemson teaches you how to manage your new independent life. It also reaffirms your basic fundamentals in school and out side of the classroom. You will be book...

” – Lenise from Decatur, GA
University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame was founded in 1842 by members of the Congregation of Holy Cross. It is one of the nation’s top religious schools and holds mass multiple times a day. U.S. News & World Report rates the school as #18 in National...

“…

In and out of the classroom, you are guaranteed to learn...A LOT. From going to conferences and listening to lectures by distinguished professors at many different universities to the actual learning in the classroom (and the fabulous & intelligent...

” – Lindsay from Downers Grove, IL
Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins University, you’ll have the relationships and resources to explore what you care about most—and then dig deeper to make a difference in the world around you. Hopkins combines the resources of the first and top-funded research...

“…

All of the classes are full of material and even the intro classes go above and beyond what one would have learned in high school, and even in an AP class.

” – Alyssa from Grand Blanc, MI
George Washington University

George Washington University is a private university maintains three campuses, with the main campus located in Washington, D.C., just four blocks from the White House. George Washington University offers 75 undergraduate majors and 69% of students...

“…

This is my first semester and I'm taking six classes and I've definitely learned a lot. First thing I learned is not to take six classes, especially not your first semester. It's a big load, but I'm handling it well and I love my classes. I'm in...

” – Arianna from Brookline, MA
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
University of Utah

The University of Utah is a public research instititution situated in Salt Lake City that offers more than 100 undergraduate majors. The U is home to three professional arts organizations to complement the College of Fine Arts, and even features a 3...

“…

I'm very impressed with the way the professors are so willing to help students. I have had several instances in classes where I have not understood the material given, and I'm pleased to say that I have felt totally comfortable in going to my...

” – Katie from Sandy, UT
Hofstra University

Hofstra University boasts small classes, dedicated faculty, and an energized campus within reach of New York City. Students can choose from about 160 undergraduate programs and about 165 graduate programs, in Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business...

“…

Hofstra has been everything I wanted in a school and more! Literally it's a fairly small sized school, but the resources and connections are endless. Their programs are very well established and it's easy to study diverse subjects.

” – Mary from Murfreesboro, TN
Miami University-Oxford

Founded in 1809, Miami University is a 4-year public research institution in southwest Ohio and the state’s second oldest university. Miami of Ohio confers bachelor’s degrees in over 120 fields of study. For recreation, Miami is home to a unique...

“…

Several teachers teach from the course textbook, but also draw from their own experiences and other media/texts. Miami gives a well-rounded education because they stress that non academic activities are important, too. Learning comes from the...

” – Samantha from Erlanger, KY
Mercer University

Mercer University is one of America’s oldest and most distinctive institutions of higher learning, offering rigorous programs that span the undergraduate liberal arts to doctoral level degrees. While offering a breadth of programs found at much...

“…

Mercer provides students' a comprehensive liberal arts education comprised of engaging discussions, service learning and professors who care about your overall well-being. Classes are primarily discussion based and allow for student input and one-on...

” – Molly from Garnet Valley, PA
University of Arkansas

Situated on a hilltop overlooking the Ozark Mountains, the University of Arkansas is the flagship campus of the UA system and the largest university in the state. Arkansas is home to six colleges and schools hosting undergraduate degree-granting...

“…

I am an International Business student in the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas. Throughout my time at the University of Arkansas I have learned more than I ever imagined. My business classes were focused and interactive...

” – April from Fort Smith, AR
Manchester University
North Manchester, IN
Manchester University

Originally founded as the Roanoke Classical Seminary, Manchester University is a liberal arts university in northeast Indiana affiliated with the Church of the Brethren. Manchester is home to colleges of Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, Business...

“…

From the very first class of the semester, the learning started. Professors don't waste class time; they teach to you what needs to be learned. You may think going into a familiar class that it'll be an easy breeze; but, the professors always find a...

” – unanimous
Lehigh University

Founded by a local industrialist and philanthropist, Lehigh University is a 4-year private school in eastern Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. Lehigh is home to colleges of Business, Engineering, Arts & Sciences, Health, and Education granting...

“…

Even though I'm taking mostly prerequisite classes right now, they are more advanced than anything I'd taken in high school and the teaching styles of the professors are conducive to learning. The learning that occurs on campus isn't limited to...

” – Stacy from Hope Valley, RI
Ball State University

Originally founded as a teacher’s college, Ball State University is a public institution in eastern Indiana. Ball State is home to seven colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in more than 120 academic majors. Throughout the year, Ball State...

“…

The staff and employees of the campus are both kind and knowledgeable of their areas. The presentations I have seen from professors during orientation demonstrates how varied they are and creative in their ways of instruction.

” – Jared from Muncie, IN
Hampton University

Founded in 1868 after the Civil War to provide education to freedmen, Hampton University is an Historically Black College and University on the Virginia Peninsula. Hampton is home to eight undergraduate colleges conferring bachelor’s degrees and...

“…

Hampton University is an excellent school when it comes to academics.l The professors are very interested in their students. They provide office hours as well as email addresses in order for their students to contact them. All of my professors...

” – Asia from Winterville, NC
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the oldest continuously operating technological research university in the United States. On top of the usual academic offerings, RPI has programs in current and emerging issues, including in...

“…

RPI is a wonderful place to learn. The academics are rigorous here, but the hard work pays off. Although it's a technological institute, there are lots of fields you can pursue, including biology, architechture, management, information technology...

” – DS from Troy, NY
Florida Southern College

With campus along the shore of Lake Hollingsworth, Florida Southern College is a 4-year private institution in Lakeland, Florida. Florida Southern confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic programs. For students interested in history and...

“…

The staff of Florida Southern are so helpful and passionate about the students' endeavors, it's a breath of fresh air. Not only would you learn in the classroom, but there are so many other opportunities for students to grow and become active members...

” – Jasmine from Lakeland, FL
University of Dayton

The University of Dayton is a top-tier Catholic research university with offerings from the undergraduate to the doctoral levels. We are a diverse community committed, in the Marianist tradition, to educating the whole person and to linking learning...

“…

Classes are hands on, and in my opinion, experience is the best teacher.

” – Jessica from Columbus, OH
Heidelberg University

Heidelberg University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Tiffin, Ohio. Students graduating from Heidelberg are all given the option to enroll in the school’s Plus One Advantage program, which registers students in a 1-year Master...

“…

I attend Heidelberg University's music program. I've at least doubled my knowledge about music, and I've only been here a semester! You will definitely learn, and the work is challenging but not difficult. I really think you will enjoy going here.

” – Katelyn from Coshocton, OH
Montana State University

Established in 1893, Montana State University is situated in Bozeman, Montana. MSU is the state’s land-grant university and is the primary campus for the Montana State University System. Considered by the Carnegie Foundation as an institution with a...

“…

I've learned so much in all of my classes. Most of the classes after first semester are smaller so the teachers have more time to spend with each student and discussions ensue and are really helpful.

” – Margaret from Bozeman, MT
University of New Mexico-Main Campus

Located near old Route 66 in Albuquerque, the University of New Mexico is New Mexico’s flagship public university. UNM is home to 12 colleges conferring bachelor’s degrees in 94 academic programs and its Health Sciences Center is New Mexico’s largest...

“…

The school is a good place to go and get your degree. I am studying Business. The classes are harder for this major than other majors. There is a lot of writing and reading. However, the teachers are extremely nice, and they are very helpful. They do...

” – Stacy from Los Alamos, NM
Central Washington University

Originally founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School, Central Washington University is a 4-year public institution. Central Washington is home to six colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees in over 135 academic majors as well...

“…

The profs here are truly amazing and very understandable. They are very approachable and ready to help you study and learn. Also a wide variety of classes and foriegn languages you can choose from so make sure to keep an open mind!

” – Katherina from Tacoma, WA
Thomas Jefferson University

Built for a future that has yet to be defined, Jefferson is crossing disciplines to bring unrivaled innovation and discovery to higher education. Through boundary-breaking collaboration, research and hands-on, experiential learning, we equip...

“…

This school is very well developed. You learn alot of information needed for your major. Many opportunities are offered. Have excellent internship programs to help you have an idea of what to expect after graduation. Many clubs and organizations...

” – Adji from Philadelphia, PA
Augustana College

Augustana College is a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1860. Located in Rock Island, IL, Augustana offers more than 90 majors and related study programs in the humanities and fine arts, natural and social sciences, and pre-professional...

“…

The faculty here are intelligent and more than qualified, plus they show a genuine caring attitude towards the students. The tri-mester schedule allows students to take more classes and double and even triple major.

” – Ashley from Dixon, IL
Boise State University

Boise State is a Carnegie doctoral research university that is home to more than 26,000 students from every state and more than 60 foreign countries. Our metropolitan campus runs along the banks of the Boise River, just a quick walk from the heart of...

“…

The classes are here are great. The professor's are very friendly and love to help there students. Plus, you live in the City of Trees, Boise is a great little college town, especially during the football season.

” – Joshua from Caldwell, ID
Samford University

Founded in 1841, Samford University is a 4-year Christian university in the greater Birmingham area affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention. Samford is home to 10 colleges conferring numerous undergraduate degrees and all classes are focused...

“…

From the standards of the admissions as well as the partnerships that Samford holds, I really do believe that learning will be taking place, both inside the classrooms and out.

” – TYEA from Birmingham, AL
Southern Oregon University

Southern Oregon University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in south central Oregon. SOU confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic fields of study and provides numerous opportunities to engage in field study, internships, and capstone projects...

“…

The teachers are really helpful and most are really good about getting papers or tests backs quickly. I feel pretty challenged, but never really overloaded. Most professors are really good about dealing with special circumatances.

” – Brooke from South Lake Tahoe, CA
Northern Michigan University

With campus overlooking Lake Superior, Northern Michigan University is a public school and the largest university in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. NMU confers undergrad and graduate degrees in 177 academic programs and all students receive either a...

“…

The teachers are so helpful. They will come in early or stay late in their office if you can't make their hours. When you ask a question they do their best to answer it. I even had teachers who would look it up and the answer it the next class. Some...

” – Bryanne from Canton, MI
Dominican University

Founded by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, Dominican University is a Catholic institution in the Chicagoland area. Dominican is home to seven colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in 65 academic majors. As a Catholic university...

“…

In my experience, I have not attend other schools so this is based on just my experience in this school The reason that I rate learning a lot 5 of 5 is: almost all the classes were very fun as well informative. to make sure you get this 5 out of 5 is...

” – Roberto from River Grove, IL
University of Tulsa

Founded in 1894, The University of Tulsa is a 4-year private research institution in northeast Oklahoma. Tulsa is home to six colleges conferring degrees in 67 academic majors and its campus is noteworthy for its Collegiate Gothic buildings. Tulsa is...

“…

I love the University of Tulsa's curriculum. All students have to take certain classes, and it helps to break up your classes that are all focused on your major. Also, all liberal arts majors are required to have a minor (and science majors are...

” – Faith from Tulsa, OK
Faulkner University

Faulkner University is a Christian liberal arts school in Montgomery, Alabama, affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Faulkner confers undergraduate degrees in over 50 academic majors and sets the stage for graduate study or employment in a wide...

“…

Faulkner awlways trys to help you learn but you have to help them

” – Lisa from Wetumpka, AL
Southeastern University

Originally founded as the Alabama Shield of Faith Institute, Southeastern University is a Christ-centered liberal arts college in central Florida affiliated with the Assemblies of God Church. Southeastern grants bachelor’s degrees in more than 70...

“…

I think the academic program there is rated highly

” – Victoria from Ocala, FL
The University of Findlay

Founded in 1882, the University of Findlay is a private institution based in Findlay, OH. UF is affiliated with the Churches of God General Conference and is rated as having “more selective” admissions. The school offers liberal arts-based degree...

“…

The classes are really small for the most part. I am a Pre-vet student, it's a popular major here so the classes get filled up quickly and are really full. They almost always open up another class to choose. The professors care about the students and...

” – Jessica from Wauseon, OH
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Founded in 1859, Averett University is a private 4-year institution situated in Danville, Virginia. Averett University is affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia but welcomes students of all faith, or non-faith, backgrounds. Top...

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the small classes offer a more personal level with the professors making easier to pay attention

” – Joey from Richmond, VA
University of Central Oklahoma

The University of Central Oklahoma is a 4-year public school in the Oklahoma City metro area and one of the oldest universities in the southwest United States. UCO oversees six colleges granting bachelor’s degrees in 121 areas of study and operates...

“…

The classes here are challenging, but the instructors understand that you have other classes so they don't overload you.

” – Lauren from Bixby, OK
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Macomb Community College is a public, 2-year institution with campuses in Warren and Clinton Township, Michigan. The college features a wide variety of unique academic programs, with subjects ranging from Court Reporting to Fire Science. Students...

“…

I have learned a lot while attending this school. I have been going here for over a year and have been happy with all my instructors. The professors are friendly and helpful when you need information. The classes were not too easy or too difficult.

” – Nathan from Ira Twp, MI
Mississippi College

Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the oldest university in the state and has “more selective” admissions. It is affiliated with the Baptist Church and houses the Provone Chapel, which was used as a hospital during the Civil War. It hosts the...

“…

Small classes and dedicated professors create a dynamic learning environment where students can work together, ask questions, and a get hands-on learning experience. Most professors' have convenient office hours during which students are encouraged...

” – Laura from Collierville, TN
Newberry College

Founded in 1856, Newberry College is a 4-year liberal arts college in South Carolina affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Newberry offers undergraduate degrees in over 30 academic majors. For musically inclined students, Newberry is home to nine...

“…

Newberry College's learning experience is very unique. The small class sizes make it easy to have a one on one relationship with your professor. The instructors are always more than willing to spend the extra time and energy to make sure that the...

” – Kali from Florence, SC
Grand View University

Grand View University is a 4-year, liberal arts institution located in the capital city of Iowa, Des Moines. GV offers 40 academic programs on their 50-acre urban campus, where students are immersed in the university’s Viking culture. On top of...

“…

I would give Grand View University an excellent rate. They are very helpful in many ways. It has many majors to offer and the major that I was interested in.

” – Brian from Des Moines, IA
The University of Alabama

Established in 1831, The University of Alabama is a four-year research institution in Tuscaloosa and the oldest and largest public university in the state. UA features 12 colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 70 fields of study...

“…

This college is great for hands-on experience and in class learning. The teachers really care and are very knowledgeable in the area they teach. I have been able to take advantage of my teachers' office hours and really get to know them. I learned...

” – Brittney from Birmingham, AL
Ohio Wesleyan University

Established by a local pastor in a former hotel, Ohio Wesleyan University is a liberal arts college in mid-Ohio. OWU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 90 fields of study and more than a quarter of the student body chooses to double major. Throughout...

“…

Although it has a 66% acceptance rate, the classes are far from easy. Class sizes usually fall between 6 and 30 so participation is a must. Professors are fully invested in the enrichment of the students, so as students, we are expected to be focused...

” – Jen from Spring, TX
Madonna University

Madonna University, located in Livonia, Michigan, is one of the nation’s largest Franciscan Catholic universities. The Detroit-area campus provides: career preparation, service learning, more than 100 rigorous and relevant majors in a student...

“…

Wow, a lot can be said about the learning that goes on at Madonna. The classes, for the most part, are small and you really can get that one-on-one attention with the professor in the middle of class. The only exception to that rule would probably be...

” – Alejandra from Lincoln Park, MI
Whitworth University

Whitworth University is a nationally ranked, private Christian liberal arts university in Spokane, Wash. Founded in 1890, Whitworth enrolls over 2,300 undergraduate students and offers more than 100 majors and programs between its College of Arts &...

“…

Whitworth believes strongly in an education of mind and heart and this is obvious through all of the professors. Class sizes are fairly small, allowing lots of interaction between students and professors. The material is challenging, but there is...

” – JD from Livingston, MT
Colorado Christian University

Faith and learning; at Colorado Christian University, we prefer the combination. With more than 100 majors, minors, and emphases to choose from, you'll integrate dynamic learning with rock-solid faith, and begin to discern God's plan for your life...

“…

The Professors are all very well educated and deeply care that students are keeping the knowledge they gain from the classes throughout life.

” – Katherine from Colorado Springs, CO