Specialized Programs

PRE-DENTAL, PRE-MEDICAL, PRE-PHARMACY AND PRE-VETERINARY PROGRAMS

Most students major in one of the natural sciences, frequently in an area of the biological sciences and/or chemistry. The student should develop his/her major area of interest freely, realizing that most medical schools are primarily interested in the quality and scope of work accomplished rather than the particular area of concentration. It is indeed possible to major in an area other than science, carrying the necessary science courses as electives. However, since so much of medicine is based upon scientific study, the student who majors in another field and elects the minimum number of required sciences must do well in those courses to ensure adequate preparation and favorable consideration of future applications to medical schools.

The University does not offer specific pre-dental, pre-medical, pre-veterinary, or pre-pharmacy programs so that over specialization will be minimized. It is the philosophy of the science faculty that students should be broadly prepared for a variety of alternate career goals. A sound major in some discipline combined with the concentrated course-work in the student's specific area of interest will give the student solid preparation for a variety of careers.

Freshmen interested in these programs are assigned to a pre-professional advisor. At the end of the first year, students elect their major and decide whether to pursue a B.A. or a B.S. degree. Students pursuing these programs should determine the specific course-work requirements of the professional school where they expect to submit application before electing their undergraduate major.

Information about professional programs can be found on the internet.

Return to Majors and Minors.