The following are some of the most popular majors to combine with coursework in pre-medical studies. In a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology program, students focus on learning in-depth material about various components of the human body. Human physiology is the study of the functions of the human body at the molecular, cellular, and organism levels. The coursework required for this major provides a strong foundation in biology, statistics, physics, chemistry, and mathematics across a broad range of health topics.
Human physiology is one of the ideal degree programs for students who are planning to pursue advanced medical degrees, but it can also open new doors for engaging in clinical research as well.
Physiology often goes hand in hand with anatomy. While the field of anatomy looks at the structures of the body and their relationships with other parts, physiology is concerned with the functions those structures serve. A Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program provides all of the fundamental knowledge necessary for students who aspire to become physicians, surgeons, dentists, or other members of the medical team. As the primary life science, biology enables students to learn about various diverse fields of study, from anatomy and physiology to molecular biology and ecology.
Through required laboratory courses, students gain vital critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are assets for all contributors to the medical industry. Year after year, biology and biological science are popular majors, and not only among aspiring surgeons. When students choose the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences major program, the curriculum is based on broadening their understanding of all the mental and social factors that play prominent roles in achieving overall good health.
Health sciences programs are more interdisciplinary than most of the science-based majors you might consider as a prospective surgeon, balancing coursework in biology, physiology, organic chemistry, nutrition, mathematics, psychology, ethics and health care policy.
Since the health sciences major is quite flexible, students are prepared for multiple different careers related to human health, such as physical or occupational therapist, physician assistant, pharmacist, athletic trainer, nurse and public health worker or advocate.
Most colleges and universities that offer this major combine it with all the necessary pre-medical courses needed for medical school. Some health sciences programs allow students to pursue optional concentrations and specializations in areas like medical sciences, exercise science, leadership and community wellness and public health.
A Bachelor of Science in Chemistry is another commonly chosen degree program for students who wish to become surgeons or physicians. Students often engage in courses on organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, biology, calculus, statistics, and computer science for a well-rounded degree.
These programs of study can help you develop the skills to innovate new medical technologies. Biomedical sciences and bioengineering are relatively new fields of study, but they are growing rapidly. Majors you can choose for becoming a doctor include:.
Some of the most common majors for pre-med students include a major in nursing and a major in pre-med sciences. While nursing majors include specific coursework that results in a degree in nursing, a pre-med major is more of a direct track you would choose that sets you up with the exact prerequisites you'll need for medical school.
A major in the life sciences, like biology, is an excellent path to take if you're considering a career in medicine. A biology major will give you the science foundations you'll need to take on the coursework once you get into medical school. Additionally, a biology major will include many of the prerequisite courses including additional sciences and mathematics you'll need to fulfill medical school requirements. Biochemistry is another major to consider if you're passionate about the sciences and want to pursue a career in medicine.
Biochemistry focuses on cells and their functions and will cover genetics too, making this major a great place to start for developing the skills you'll need in medical school. Human physiology is another life science major that you can consider for becoming a doctor. Studies in physiology are also prerequisites for getting into medical school, so a major in this area will cover much of your pre-med coursework. Additionally, the focus on the human body, organ systems and functions can offer an advantage once you get into medical school.
Psychology is another excellent place to start your path into medical school, as it can prepare you for interacting with patients. An undergraduate degree in psychology can provide you with the life sciences you'll need for pre-med requirements, and it can give you the skills necessary to understand human behavior, decision-making and emotional responses.
These skills are highly valuable for physicians to have, and there are many doctors of psychology as well, making this a major with a variety of career paths in the medical field.
Mathematics is another strong background to have for entering medical school. Calculus, statistics and math-liberal arts all include coursework that covers some of the prerequisite maths you'll need for applying to med school. Additionally, the attention to detail, critical thinking and problem-solving skills you develop in a maths major will be highly beneficial for your studies in medical school.
A major in engineering, similar to mathematics, provides a foundation for the complex medical studies you'll cover in med school. Engineering majors can include a range of specialties, from biomedical engineering to chemical engineering and even structural and software engineering. A major in engineering can also provide different career opportunities in the medical field beyond a doctor if you choose to advance your career in the future.
Economics and business majors are becoming more common among medical students. The advantage of a major in economics or business is that you can cover several prerequisites in your degree program while also developing your business skills, knowledge of economics and how this all applies to the medical field. This can be especially beneficial as a background for medical school, as you'll likely develop a deep understanding of the economic side of the healthcare system.
Many wouldn't think that an English degree translates to a foundation for medical school. However, English majors develop many of the skills necessary for success as a med student.
For instance, English majors focus on communication in all forms, and physicians rely heavily on their abilities to communicate clearly and compassionately with patients. Critical thinking. Quantitative reasoning. Scientific inquiry. Written communication. Gaining acceptance to medical school is highly competitive. According to the AAMC, in —, there were 53, applicants to allopathic medical schools and 21, matriculants, making the overall acceptance rate 41 percent.
Aspiring doctors can choose between an allopathic medicine MD and osteopathic medicine DO degree. Familiarizing yourself with the differences will help you decide which path you should pursue. Medical school admissions committees tend to favor students who are motivated, hardworking, and committed to achieving their professional objectives early in their college studies.
It is important to note, however, that medical schools do not require applicants to major in science or STEM at all. Steven Wilt is the director of pre-medical studies and serves as chair of the Pre-med Advisory Committee at Bellarmine University.
He has worked with hundreds of aspiring doctors in his career and has an insider perspective on what it takes to be accepted into med school. He shares that Bellarmine offers all of the resources and support available for future physicians to find success. Wilt explains. We work with students from the first semester all the way up to the application process.
The beauty of a pre-med program is that its comprehensive coverage of scientific knowledge and lab work prepares students for a multitude of careers in healthcare.
Pre-med majors can also choose to pursue other professional schools, such as:. Pharmacy PharmD. Podiatry DPM. Each of the above areas of medicine has specific entrance requirements and preferences. Most will include the following elements:. Prerequisite course work and GPA standards. Pre-admission exam. Experiences and familiarity with the career e.
Letters of evaluation and recommendation. Involvement and leadership in extracurricular activities. Evidence of a commitment to community service. Independent research. Career opportunities for pre-med majors are abundant, especially for those willing to complete additional certifications or training. Wilt offers. So what can you do with a pre-med degree? Here is a sampling of other career options:.
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