Students planning to enter a medical (allopathic or osteopathic), dental, physician assistant, optometry, podiatry, pharmacy, or other health professional program 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-health professional student can vary slightly but will usually include one year of inorganic chemistry, two semesters of biology, one to two semesters of organic chemistry, one semester of biochemistry, one semester of calculus, one semester of statistics, one year of physics, and one semester of psychology. These courses are usually satisfied in two years and all of these courses (except mathematics) 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 studying abroad. Study abroad offers a valuable opportunity to enrich and gain perspective on preparation for medical school.