- Most students complete Biology 1109 or the 1101-1102 sequence by the end of sophomore year.
- Only two college biology courses with lab are required, additional biology is strongly recommended.
Academic Prerequisites
Each medical school lists its specific requirements for admission in the directory "Medical School Admission Requirements" (MSAR), published annually by the Association of American Medical Colleges. Dental schools, schools of veterinary medicine, and other health professions programs have comparable publications. These resources can be accessed in the Office of Health Professions Advising or through these health field links.
The following list is applicable for the majority of medical and dental schools, and is the foundation for veterinary and other health care programs that have additional requirements, as well. Please be aware that AP credits may not be used to fulfill the science prerequisites.
First-Year Course Selection
When designing your schedule, work closely with your pre-major academic advisor to plan the most appropriate program to meet your individual needs. It is advisable to begin addressing the health professions requirements early during your college career, but it is a mistake to take courses for which you are not ready. Enroll in classes for which you have both the necessary academic preparation and the intellectual maturity. At the same time, be mindful of the recommended timeline for any field in which you may major and the distribution and division requirements you must complete. No two students’ course schedules are likely to be exactly the same!
Tips for Designing Your Schedule
- Don't hesitate to ask upper-class students questions about courses you're considering.
- Talk to the health professions advisor, as well, if you have questions about course requirements for any health care field.
- Try to design a semester that will be challenging without being overwhelming – in other words, one that will allow you to enjoy learning!