Medical professionals provide health care services to humans and include a wide variety of specialties: dentists, doctors, optometrists, podiatrists, genetic counselors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, physician assistants, and more.  They develop skills in microbiology, pathology, physiology, pharmacology, genetics, and surgery.  Many medical professionals practice medicine in a clinical setting, but training in this area can also open up careers in animal research, public health, food safety, regulatory medicine, and education. Many students and parents ask, "what's the best major if I'm pre-med (or interested in pre-health professions)?" Here's some information from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) about selecting a major if you are interested in human medicine/health professions. Biology is an excellent major for students interested in health professions! 

Becoming a medical professional usually requires specialized training and licensure, or post-graduate education.  There are many medical schools and other allied health programs in the United States, and each has somewhat different admissions requirements.  We recommend students investigate various paths in human medicine with their advisor and with the Pre-Health academic advising team in Catt Hall.  Students should identify programs to apply for as early as possible in order to determine exactly what preparation is required and tailor a program of study accordingly. 

Biology Specializations - Human Medicine (PDF)

Recommended Courses

The core courses of the Biology Program and appropriate advanced courses provide very good preparation for pre-medical (pre-human health) students.  Students should closely examine the admissions requirements for their chosen school and prioritize those classes when selecting advanced biology coursework.  

We recommend taking at least 9 credits from the list below, especially anatomy and physiology coursework (lab courses are denoted by • ):

Suggested Supporting Science Courses

These requirements vary depending on the type of program, but in general students should expect to take a full year of general chemistry, a full year of organic chemistry, and strongly consider taking more advanced biochemistry courses.  Many programs also require a full year of physics. Some professional schools in human medicine require one semester of calculus, and occasionally two. Social sciences, such as introductory psychology and introductory sociology, are also recommended, especially for students planning to take the MCAT.