5 answers
Isabel
Student
Yangon, Yangon Region, Myanmar (Burma)
1
Question
Asked
731 views
What are my chances of becoming a medical student if I don’t take physics?
I’m a IGCSE student and currently I’m taking biology, chemistry, Math and other 3 subjects but I didn’t take physics. If I want to be a doctor do I need to take physics at A level?? Can I join a medical foundation program without taking physics???
5 answers
Martin Schoen
APRN
288
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
I would think your chances would be poor. Most of your competition would have completed physics and the basic principles are used in medicine. So, I would take it at least at the college level.
Sarah Ford
ICU Registered Nurse
10
Answers
Los Alamos, New Mexico
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
There are virtually no medical schools in the U.S. that will let you apply without taking physics.
Titilayo Akindele
I am an intern in the company(hotel)
2
Answers
Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
Updated
Titilayo’s Answer
The requirements for entering medical school can vary depending on the country and specific university you are applying to. However, in many cases, physics is not always an absolute requirement, though it can be recommended. Here's an overview of your options:
1. Medical School Entry Requirements:
- IGCSE/O-Level Stage: Typically, subjects like biology, chemistry, and math are essential, which you are already taking. Physics may not always be mandatory at this stage, but some programs could expect at least a basic understanding of it.
- A-Level Requirements: Many medical schools prefer candidates to have biology and chemistry at A-level. While physics can be useful, it is not always a strict requirement. Some schools accept math as an alternative to physics, which you are already studying.
2. Medical Foundation Programs:
Some universities offer medical foundation programs or pre-med courses designed for students who may not meet all the direct entry requirements. These programs help students build the necessary foundation (including basic sciences) before starting a medical degree. Often, they accept students who may not have taken physics, though you should check the specific university’s entry criteria.
3. Why Physics May Be Recommended:
While physics is not always required, it can help in understanding certain medical principles, especially in areas like radiology or understanding how machines like X-rays and MRIs work. If you have a strong grasp of chemistry and math, that may compensate for the lack of physics.
4. What to Do Next:
- **Check Specific Universities:** Look at the entry requirements for medical schools or foundation programs you're interested in. Many universities list biology and chemistry as the core subjects and may allow flexibility with the third subject.
- Consider a Foundation Year: If you're worried about meeting all the entry requirements, a foundation year could be a great pathway into medical school without physics.
In summary, while physics might be helpful, it’s not always required, and you should be able to join a medical foundation program or enter medical school without it if you're meeting other essential subject requirements. Make sure to check the specific universities you're aiming for!
1. Medical School Entry Requirements:
- IGCSE/O-Level Stage: Typically, subjects like biology, chemistry, and math are essential, which you are already taking. Physics may not always be mandatory at this stage, but some programs could expect at least a basic understanding of it.
- A-Level Requirements: Many medical schools prefer candidates to have biology and chemistry at A-level. While physics can be useful, it is not always a strict requirement. Some schools accept math as an alternative to physics, which you are already studying.
2. Medical Foundation Programs:
Some universities offer medical foundation programs or pre-med courses designed for students who may not meet all the direct entry requirements. These programs help students build the necessary foundation (including basic sciences) before starting a medical degree. Often, they accept students who may not have taken physics, though you should check the specific university’s entry criteria.
3. Why Physics May Be Recommended:
While physics is not always required, it can help in understanding certain medical principles, especially in areas like radiology or understanding how machines like X-rays and MRIs work. If you have a strong grasp of chemistry and math, that may compensate for the lack of physics.
4. What to Do Next:
- **Check Specific Universities:** Look at the entry requirements for medical schools or foundation programs you're interested in. Many universities list biology and chemistry as the core subjects and may allow flexibility with the third subject.
- Consider a Foundation Year: If you're worried about meeting all the entry requirements, a foundation year could be a great pathway into medical school without physics.
In summary, while physics might be helpful, it’s not always required, and you should be able to join a medical foundation program or enter medical school without it if you're meeting other essential subject requirements. Make sure to check the specific universities you're aiming for!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Isabel,
Exploring the Possibility of Pursuing Medicine Without a Physics Background
Decoding Medical School Admissions
The prerequisites for entering medical school can greatly differ based on the country and the specific institution you're considering. In numerous countries, including the UK and parts of Asia, A-level subjects or equivalent credentials are vital for securing admission into medical programs.
The Role of Physics in Medical Education
General Admission Guidelines: Most medical schools mandate applicants to possess a solid grounding in science subjects. Biology and Chemistry are commonly accepted subjects, but Physics is frequently suggested or required too. This is because physics imparts critical knowledge that underlies many medical aspects, such as comprehending human physiology, medical imaging technologies, and various diagnostic tools.
Country/Region-Specific Requirements: In the UK, for instance, the majority of medical schools require students to have studied Biology and Chemistry at A-level. Some may also require or recommend Physics as it aids in understanding certain scientific principles relevant to medicine. However, exceptions exist where schools might permit students to apply without Physics if they demonstrate excellence in other areas.
Foundation Programs: If you haven't studied Physics at A-level, you could still explore options through foundation programs or alternative routes into medicine. These programs cater to students who might not fulfill traditional entry requirements but exhibit potential for succeeding in medical studies. They often encompass additional coursework in necessary sciences.
Alternative Pathways: Certain universities offer graduate-entry medicine programs that welcome students from varied academic backgrounds (including those without Physics). These programs generally require a previous degree and may have different prerequisites.
Checking with Specific Institutions: It's crucial to verify the specific entry requirements of the medical schools you're interested in, as they can widely vary even within the same country.
In Conclusion
In essence, while studying Physics can bolster your application and comprehension of medical concepts, it's not a universal requirement for all medical schools or foundation programs. Your likelihood of becoming a medical student without studying Physics largely hinges on the specific requirements of the institutions you're aiming to apply to and whether they provide alternative admission routes.
Confidence in Accuracy
I estimate the accuracy of this information to be around 90%.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Response
General Medical Council (GMC) - The GMC issues guidelines on educational standards for UK medical schools and outlines general admission requirements.
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) - UCAS provides extensive information about university admissions in the UK, including subject requirements for various courses, including medicine.
Medical Schools Council (MSC) - The MSC represents UK medical schools and offers detailed information about entry criteria and routes into medicine for aspiring students.
Take Care!
JC.
Exploring the Possibility of Pursuing Medicine Without a Physics Background
Decoding Medical School Admissions
The prerequisites for entering medical school can greatly differ based on the country and the specific institution you're considering. In numerous countries, including the UK and parts of Asia, A-level subjects or equivalent credentials are vital for securing admission into medical programs.
The Role of Physics in Medical Education
General Admission Guidelines: Most medical schools mandate applicants to possess a solid grounding in science subjects. Biology and Chemistry are commonly accepted subjects, but Physics is frequently suggested or required too. This is because physics imparts critical knowledge that underlies many medical aspects, such as comprehending human physiology, medical imaging technologies, and various diagnostic tools.
Country/Region-Specific Requirements: In the UK, for instance, the majority of medical schools require students to have studied Biology and Chemistry at A-level. Some may also require or recommend Physics as it aids in understanding certain scientific principles relevant to medicine. However, exceptions exist where schools might permit students to apply without Physics if they demonstrate excellence in other areas.
Foundation Programs: If you haven't studied Physics at A-level, you could still explore options through foundation programs or alternative routes into medicine. These programs cater to students who might not fulfill traditional entry requirements but exhibit potential for succeeding in medical studies. They often encompass additional coursework in necessary sciences.
Alternative Pathways: Certain universities offer graduate-entry medicine programs that welcome students from varied academic backgrounds (including those without Physics). These programs generally require a previous degree and may have different prerequisites.
Checking with Specific Institutions: It's crucial to verify the specific entry requirements of the medical schools you're interested in, as they can widely vary even within the same country.
In Conclusion
In essence, while studying Physics can bolster your application and comprehension of medical concepts, it's not a universal requirement for all medical schools or foundation programs. Your likelihood of becoming a medical student without studying Physics largely hinges on the specific requirements of the institutions you're aiming to apply to and whether they provide alternative admission routes.
Confidence in Accuracy
I estimate the accuracy of this information to be around 90%.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Response
General Medical Council (GMC) - The GMC issues guidelines on educational standards for UK medical schools and outlines general admission requirements.
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) - UCAS provides extensive information about university admissions in the UK, including subject requirements for various courses, including medicine.
Medical Schools Council (MSC) - The MSC represents UK medical schools and offers detailed information about entry criteria and routes into medicine for aspiring students.
Take Care!
JC.
Dr. Deniece
Physician
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Dr.’s Answer
You need to take physics because it's on the MCAT. You don't have to take Calculus based physics, but you at least a foundation to do well on the tests. The journey to becoming an attending physician is long and filled with tests. You must be able to get good scores on your MCAT in order to be competitive for medical school entrance. So, take the physics! Good luck on your journey!
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