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What are acceptable undergraduate majors to become a doctor?

I have hopes of studying biology in college but do not know if it there is a better major to select seeing as how I want to become a doctor. #majors #medicine #biology #healthcare #hospital-and-health-care #medical-school #academic-advising

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Linda C.’s Answer

My daughter is graduating next weekend with a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She’s been accepted into medical school for the fall.

There are many majors you can pursue and get into medical school. Med schools look for a core group of science courses and high MCAT scores, not for a specific major.

I know of people who majored in music — and excelled in the required science courses and the MCAT — who were accepted into medical school and are now doctors.

You don’t have to have a degree in biology or chemistry, but there are so many required science courses to take that it makes meeting the requirements easier if you major in a related field.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Lyric,

Acceptable Undergraduate Majors to Become a Doctor

To become a doctor, there is no specific undergraduate major that is required. However, certain majors may better prepare you for medical school and the field of medicine. The most common undergraduate majors chosen by students aspiring to become doctors include:

Biology: Biology is a popular major for pre-medical students as it covers many of the foundational concepts needed for medical school. It provides a strong background in life sciences, which are essential for understanding human anatomy, physiology, and other medical-related subjects.

Biochemistry: Biochemistry is another common major among pre-medical students. It combines biology and chemistry, providing a deeper understanding of the chemical processes that occur within living organisms. This major can be particularly beneficial for those interested in fields like pharmacology or research.

Chemistry: A degree in Chemistry can also be advantageous for students pursuing a career in medicine. Chemistry majors develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in the practice of medicine. Additionally, chemistry coursework often overlaps with the prerequisites for medical school.

While these majors are commonly chosen by pre-medical students, it is important to note that medical schools accept applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds. Admissions committees look for well-rounded individuals with diverse experiences and interests. Therefore, it is more important to excel academically in your chosen major and demonstrate a passion for healthcare through extracurricular activities, research, volunteering, and clinical experience.

Ultimately, the best undergraduate major for you will depend on your interests, strengths, and career goals. It is recommended to choose a major that you are passionate about and in which you can perform well academically while also fulfilling the prerequisite courses required by medical schools.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC provides valuable resources and guidance for aspiring medical students, including information on undergraduate preparation for medical school and the admissions process.

Khan Academy: Khan Academy offers free online resources on various subjects, including biology, biochemistry, and chemistry. These resources can help students supplement their learning in these areas while pursuing their undergraduate degrees.

U.S. News & World Report: U.S. News & World Report publishes rankings and guides related to higher education and healthcare professions. Their insights can be helpful when researching undergraduate programs that align with your career goals in medicine.

These sources were consulted to ensure accuracy and reliability in providing information on acceptable undergraduate majors for individuals aspiring to become doctors.

GOD BLESS YOU,
JC.
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Rachel’s Answer

Major in whatever field interests you and will allow you to maintain an excellent GPA. I majored in Spanish literature and had no trouble with my med school applications. You do need to complete the pre-med requirements, preferably with A’s. These include at least a year of biology, 1 year inorganic chemistry, 1 year organic chemistry + labs, physics, calculus, and biochemistry. Your junior year, you will need to take an MCAT study course prior to taking the MCAT. With a solid GPA and MCAT score, you should be a competitive applicant.
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Richard’s Answer

Pick a major that interests you. You will need to get good grades in college in order to apply for medical school. At the medical school I attended, the average GPA is reported to be 3.85, so even one or two B's can hurt your chances of acceptance.

Aside from this, any major is acceptable as long as you complete the prerequisite courses.

Typical medical school prerequisites include:
Biology: Lecture – 4 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
General Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Organic Chemistry: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Biochemistry: Lecture – 1 semester
General Physics: Lecture – 2 semesters; Lab – 1 semester
Math: Statistics – 1 semester
English: Rhetoric (Composition) and Literature – 2 semesters

I chose biochemistry because there was overlap with the premed requirements and I wanted to complete my degree in 3 years.
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Yasemin’s Answer

Hi Lyric! You can be any major and apply to medical school; it is key to take the important prerequisites like biology, chemistry, physics, math, etc., to name a few. Usually a premed adviser in college has a nice sheet that outlines what is required and recommended for medical school so definitely check that out! I was a Psychology major, and there are even History majors who apply to medical school; I think it depends on your interest. My sister was a Biochemistry major, so if you do like Biology definitely go for it! However, if another major truly interests you as well and you can have meaningful discussions about it, like in an interview or on an application then you should do it! The key is to maintain a good GPA (3.5+) for both your overall and science GPA as well as MCAT score (508+) in order to be competitive academically to apply to medical school; the GPA is determined from your major and the prereqs you take, so be sure to do well in your classes, regardless of the major you choose. Also, your major, if it not a traditional science major, will most likely lead you to have two advisers; for example I had a Psychology adviser-for my major- and also sought out a premed adviser from the science department as well. Just some things to keep in mind!

I hope this helps!
Best of luck!
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