8 answers
Christabel
Student
Fairfax, Virginia
2
Questions
Updated
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What major is best for pre-med?
I am a senior in high school and I am not really sure what to major in. I am interested in Political Science and English Lit but I have heard that you need a science heavy background in order to get into medical school. I am really confused as to what to do?
Any advice will be greatly appreciated
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8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1501
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the concept of pre-med, Pre-med is not a major but a track. You can major in anything you wish, as long as your medical school requirements and your major requirements are completed by graduation. Almost every medical school requires the following courses:
• One year of Biology with lab
• One year of General Chemistry with lab
• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
• One year of Physics with lab
• One semester of Biochemistry
• One year of English
POPULAR PRE MED MAJORS
Here are a few majors that pre-med students tend to migrate towards.
• HUMAN BIOLOGY - Since doctors and researchers alike need to understand the biological processes that power the human body, Human Biology is a useful pre-med major.
• MICROBIOLOGY - Microbiology provides a foundation for understanding disease and the immune system on the molecular level, making it a great asset for pre-med students.
• PSYCHOLOGY - Psychology often involves studying human behavior, which is essential for healthcare professionals who work closely with patients to diagnose and treat them.
• CHEMISTRY - Chemistry/Biochemistry allow students to explore fundamental life processes as well as pharmaceutical interventions.
• PHILOSOPHY - Majoring in Philosophy gives students a firm understanding of ethics and helps them learn the proper ways to structure theories and arguments.
Most medical schools expect candidates to gain some basic medical experience before applying. If you’re planning to apply after graduation, then make sure to either volunteer or get a paid job at a medical care facility while in undergraduate. If you’re too busy during the semester, consider picking up work or an internship at a clinic over the summer.
Primary care experience is valued highly, so keep an eye out for hospitals and clinics first. You can meet this requirement and acquire basic experience in dealing with patients. If a hospital or primary care clinic doesn’t interest you, then there are other available options to choose from as well. For example, volunteering at nursing homes or hospices counts and provides similar patient care experience. Either way, set aside time to work in some kind of medical environment.
Pre-med students will generally sign up for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) after their sophomore year, and most applicants take the test by the January of their junior year. Knowing when you are going to take your MCAT will allow you to strategically choose and schedule your coursework. Admissions officers use the MCAT exam as a predictor of your success in medical school. The exam is designed to test the skills you'll use when you get there, including basic science, verbal reasoning, and writing ability. The MCAT is a 6-hour and 15-minute computer-based test that has the reputation of being one of the most challenging standardized tests.
• One year of Biology with lab
• One year of General Chemistry with lab
• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
• One year of Physics with lab
• One semester of Biochemistry
• One year of English
POPULAR PRE MED MAJORS
Here are a few majors that pre-med students tend to migrate towards.
• HUMAN BIOLOGY - Since doctors and researchers alike need to understand the biological processes that power the human body, Human Biology is a useful pre-med major.
• MICROBIOLOGY - Microbiology provides a foundation for understanding disease and the immune system on the molecular level, making it a great asset for pre-med students.
• PSYCHOLOGY - Psychology often involves studying human behavior, which is essential for healthcare professionals who work closely with patients to diagnose and treat them.
• CHEMISTRY - Chemistry/Biochemistry allow students to explore fundamental life processes as well as pharmaceutical interventions.
• PHILOSOPHY - Majoring in Philosophy gives students a firm understanding of ethics and helps them learn the proper ways to structure theories and arguments.
Most medical schools expect candidates to gain some basic medical experience before applying. If you’re planning to apply after graduation, then make sure to either volunteer or get a paid job at a medical care facility while in undergraduate. If you’re too busy during the semester, consider picking up work or an internship at a clinic over the summer.
Primary care experience is valued highly, so keep an eye out for hospitals and clinics first. You can meet this requirement and acquire basic experience in dealing with patients. If a hospital or primary care clinic doesn’t interest you, then there are other available options to choose from as well. For example, volunteering at nursing homes or hospices counts and provides similar patient care experience. Either way, set aside time to work in some kind of medical environment.
Pre-med students will generally sign up for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) after their sophomore year, and most applicants take the test by the January of their junior year. Knowing when you are going to take your MCAT will allow you to strategically choose and schedule your coursework. Admissions officers use the MCAT exam as a predictor of your success in medical school. The exam is designed to test the skills you'll use when you get there, including basic science, verbal reasoning, and writing ability. The MCAT is a 6-hour and 15-minute computer-based test that has the reputation of being one of the most challenging standardized tests.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Christabel
Thank You Michelle. I'm so thankful to have such a supportive colleague.
Doc Frick
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
708
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I had two physicians, one who majored in History and another who majored in Sociology.
The important elements to focus on are the medical school test requirements, GPA, and course requirements to get into medical school.
This will require a certain number of credits in Biology, Microbiology, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, and other STEM required courses.
So, a science, biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology oriented courses, mixed into your college core requirements, should help in achieving this goal.
The important elements to focus on are the medical school test requirements, GPA, and course requirements to get into medical school.
This will require a certain number of credits in Biology, Microbiology, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, and other STEM required courses.
So, a science, biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology oriented courses, mixed into your college core requirements, should help in achieving this goal.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
294
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
This is an excellent question, Christabel, and Doc has given you terrific advice. As he said, you could get into medical school if you take the required courses, pass the MCAT, and can write a convincing statement about your interest in medicine. So study what you want.
If you have an interest in Public Health, I might argue that Political Science, Government, or Public Policy courses would be great complements to your scientific studies. They could help you understand existing and emerging public health issues, as well as the pros and cons of our healthcare delivery system. You could pair those courses with on-campus research or internships in public health for a compelling narrative in your applications.
College is a time for discovery. If you find some courses (such as Organic Chemistry) off-putting, you could also pursue healthcare from the policy side. If that happens, the political science and government courses would obviously be relevant. The literature courses would help hone your critical reading and writing skills.
Good luck!
If you have an interest in Public Health, I might argue that Political Science, Government, or Public Policy courses would be great complements to your scientific studies. They could help you understand existing and emerging public health issues, as well as the pros and cons of our healthcare delivery system. You could pair those courses with on-campus research or internships in public health for a compelling narrative in your applications.
College is a time for discovery. If you find some courses (such as Organic Chemistry) off-putting, you could also pursue healthcare from the policy side. If that happens, the political science and government courses would obviously be relevant. The literature courses would help hone your critical reading and writing skills.
Good luck!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Cristabel, how's everything going? We appreciate your initiative in reaching out to us. We're confident that we can provide the necessary insights to help clarify your career aspirations. You've asked a great question! I'd be happy to share some personal experiences from our students.
Typically, the most effective pre-med programs are rooted in the Sciences. These include degrees like BS Med Tech, BS Nursing, BS Pharma, BS Biology, BS Psychology, and BS Physical Therapy. These are the paths our students have chosen when they decided to pursue Medicine.
For instance, one of our students pursued BS Psychology for her undergraduate degree, then moved on to medical school for her advanced studies. It's important to note that getting into Science programs can be challenging. Students are required to meet all prerequisites for the pre-med program. Additionally, to gain admission into medical school, students must pass an entrance exam.
Your passion for Political Science and English is still very valuable in your academic journey. In fact, English proficiency, both written and oral, is a crucial skill for students, especially when it comes to expressing themselves in various contexts.
I would also recommend scheduling a meeting with your school counselor. They can provide further guidance regarding your career interests. This could be a significant step towards achieving your goals.
Best of luck on your journey, and never stop pursuing your dreams!
Typically, the most effective pre-med programs are rooted in the Sciences. These include degrees like BS Med Tech, BS Nursing, BS Pharma, BS Biology, BS Psychology, and BS Physical Therapy. These are the paths our students have chosen when they decided to pursue Medicine.
For instance, one of our students pursued BS Psychology for her undergraduate degree, then moved on to medical school for her advanced studies. It's important to note that getting into Science programs can be challenging. Students are required to meet all prerequisites for the pre-med program. Additionally, to gain admission into medical school, students must pass an entrance exam.
Your passion for Political Science and English is still very valuable in your academic journey. In fact, English proficiency, both written and oral, is a crucial skill for students, especially when it comes to expressing themselves in various contexts.
I would also recommend scheduling a meeting with your school counselor. They can provide further guidance regarding your career interests. This could be a significant step towards achieving your goals.
Best of luck on your journey, and never stop pursuing your dreams!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Christabel
Adrian Santos
Marine Security Guard
162
Answers
Lome, Maritime Region, Togo
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
Christabel,
When it comes to choosing a major for pre-med, there’s no single “best” major, as medical schools accept students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. While it’s true that you need a strong foundation in the sciences—such as biology, chemistry, and physics—many students successfully major in non-science fields like Political Science or English Literature and still get into medical school. What’s important is that you complete the required pre-med courses, which typically include subjects like organic chemistry, biochemistry, and human anatomy. Medical schools look for well-rounded applicants who can think critically, communicate effectively, and demonstrate empathy—skills that are cultivated through various majors.
If you’re passionate about Political Science or English Literature, it’s entirely possible to major in one of those fields while fulfilling your pre-med course requirements as electives or through a minor. Many students choose to major in something they enjoy, knowing they’ll be spending several years studying it in depth, and then balance their interests with the necessary science coursework. A major in Political Science, for example, could offer a unique perspective on healthcare policy or ethics, areas that are increasingly important in medicine today. Similarly, an English Literature major could hone your communication skills, which are essential for interacting with patients and colleagues.
Ultimately, the key is to choose a major that excites you while being mindful of the medical school prerequisites. You’ll need to perform well in your science courses to be competitive, but having a non-traditional major could also set you apart from other medical school applicants. Make sure to consult with academic advisors to create a plan that allows you to explore your interests while staying on track with your pre-med requirements. This way, you’ll not only be prepared academically but also bring a unique, well-rounded perspective to your future medical career.
-Adrian
When it comes to choosing a major for pre-med, there’s no single “best” major, as medical schools accept students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. While it’s true that you need a strong foundation in the sciences—such as biology, chemistry, and physics—many students successfully major in non-science fields like Political Science or English Literature and still get into medical school. What’s important is that you complete the required pre-med courses, which typically include subjects like organic chemistry, biochemistry, and human anatomy. Medical schools look for well-rounded applicants who can think critically, communicate effectively, and demonstrate empathy—skills that are cultivated through various majors.
If you’re passionate about Political Science or English Literature, it’s entirely possible to major in one of those fields while fulfilling your pre-med course requirements as electives or through a minor. Many students choose to major in something they enjoy, knowing they’ll be spending several years studying it in depth, and then balance their interests with the necessary science coursework. A major in Political Science, for example, could offer a unique perspective on healthcare policy or ethics, areas that are increasingly important in medicine today. Similarly, an English Literature major could hone your communication skills, which are essential for interacting with patients and colleagues.
Ultimately, the key is to choose a major that excites you while being mindful of the medical school prerequisites. You’ll need to perform well in your science courses to be competitive, but having a non-traditional major could also set you apart from other medical school applicants. Make sure to consult with academic advisors to create a plan that allows you to explore your interests while staying on track with your pre-med requirements. This way, you’ll not only be prepared academically but also bring a unique, well-rounded perspective to your future medical career.
-Adrian
Thank you so much!
Christabel
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5724
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Christabel!
Deciphering Pre-Med Prerequisites
In your journey towards becoming a pre-med student, it's crucial to note that medical schools don't mandate a specific undergraduate major. Rather, they stipulate prerequisite courses that you must complete before submitting your application. These usually encompass biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, and sometimes biochemistry.
Popular Pre-Med Student Majors
Biological Sciences: A significant number of students opt for biology or related majors as these programs encompass most of the science courses required for medical school. This route equips you with a robust foundation in life sciences, beneficial for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and medical school.
Chemistry: Choosing a chemistry major aligns seamlessly with medical school prerequisites due to the extensive coursework in organic and inorganic chemistry.
Health Sciences: Certain universities provide health science majors specifically tailored to groom students for health-related professions, including medicine.
Psychology: Psychology is another favored choice among pre-med students. It fosters an understanding of human behavior and mental processes, which is invaluable in patient care.
Non-Science Majors: Considering your interest in Political Science and English Literature, it's worth noting that numerous successful medical school applicants hail from non-science backgrounds. If you decide to pursue these majors, ensure you complete all the necessary science prerequisites.
Harmonizing Interests with Prerequisites
If your passion is rooted in Political Science or English Literature, you can definitely follow these majors while simultaneously preparing for medical school. The trick is to meticulously plan your course schedule:
Prerequisite Completion: Ensure you undertake the required science courses in conjunction with your major coursework.
Extracurricular Activities: Immerse yourself in healthcare-related activities, such as volunteering at hospitals or clinics, shadowing physicians, or participating in research projects.
MCAT Preparation: Regardless of your major, concentrate on preparing for the MCAT as it evaluates knowledge across various scientific disciplines.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there isn't a single "perfect" major for pre-med students. It largely depends on your interests and strengths. You can successfully apply to medical school with a degree in Political Science or English Literature, provided you meet the necessary science requirements and show a dedication to healthcare through relevant experiences.
The accuracy of this answer is estimated at 95%.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Compiling this Answer
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): This organization offers a wealth of information about medical school admission requirements and resources for pre-med students.
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA provides advice on preparing for medical school and insights into the various pathways available to aspiring physicians.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): The NIH offers research-based information on educational pathways in medicine and health sciences, emphasizing the significance of diverse academic backgrounds in medicine.
God Bless You!
JC.
Deciphering Pre-Med Prerequisites
In your journey towards becoming a pre-med student, it's crucial to note that medical schools don't mandate a specific undergraduate major. Rather, they stipulate prerequisite courses that you must complete before submitting your application. These usually encompass biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, and sometimes biochemistry.
Popular Pre-Med Student Majors
Biological Sciences: A significant number of students opt for biology or related majors as these programs encompass most of the science courses required for medical school. This route equips you with a robust foundation in life sciences, beneficial for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and medical school.
Chemistry: Choosing a chemistry major aligns seamlessly with medical school prerequisites due to the extensive coursework in organic and inorganic chemistry.
Health Sciences: Certain universities provide health science majors specifically tailored to groom students for health-related professions, including medicine.
Psychology: Psychology is another favored choice among pre-med students. It fosters an understanding of human behavior and mental processes, which is invaluable in patient care.
Non-Science Majors: Considering your interest in Political Science and English Literature, it's worth noting that numerous successful medical school applicants hail from non-science backgrounds. If you decide to pursue these majors, ensure you complete all the necessary science prerequisites.
Harmonizing Interests with Prerequisites
If your passion is rooted in Political Science or English Literature, you can definitely follow these majors while simultaneously preparing for medical school. The trick is to meticulously plan your course schedule:
Prerequisite Completion: Ensure you undertake the required science courses in conjunction with your major coursework.
Extracurricular Activities: Immerse yourself in healthcare-related activities, such as volunteering at hospitals or clinics, shadowing physicians, or participating in research projects.
MCAT Preparation: Regardless of your major, concentrate on preparing for the MCAT as it evaluates knowledge across various scientific disciplines.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there isn't a single "perfect" major for pre-med students. It largely depends on your interests and strengths. You can successfully apply to medical school with a degree in Political Science or English Literature, provided you meet the necessary science requirements and show a dedication to healthcare through relevant experiences.
The accuracy of this answer is estimated at 95%.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Compiling this Answer
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): This organization offers a wealth of information about medical school admission requirements and resources for pre-med students.
American Medical Association (AMA): The AMA provides advice on preparing for medical school and insights into the various pathways available to aspiring physicians.
National Institutes of Health (NIH): The NIH offers research-based information on educational pathways in medicine and health sciences, emphasizing the significance of diverse academic backgrounds in medicine.
God Bless You!
JC.
I understand, thank you very much
Christabel
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
702
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Christabel, when picking a pre-med major, it's crucial to select something that matches both your interests and the medical school requirements. Although science is often the traditional choice, medical schools appreciate a variety of academic backgrounds. A major in Political Science or English Literature can offer you a distinct viewpoint and valuable skills in critical thinking, communication, and analysis, which are also highly valued in medicine.
You can balance your major with the necessary science classes needed for medical school admission, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, to ensure you meet all prerequisites. Medical schools favor applicants who have tackled challenging coursework and excelled in various fields, showing well-rounded skills and the ability to think across disciplines. Also, participating in healthcare-related extracurricular activities, like volunteering, shadowing doctors, or conducting research, can boost your application and demonstrate your dedication to medicine.
In the end, Christabel, the most suitable major is one that you are truly passionate about and can excel in, as strong academic performance and genuine interest in your field of study are key for medical school success. By combining your chosen major with the required science classes and gaining relevant experience, you can set yourself on a solid path towards a medical career while also pursuing your academic passions.
You can balance your major with the necessary science classes needed for medical school admission, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, to ensure you meet all prerequisites. Medical schools favor applicants who have tackled challenging coursework and excelled in various fields, showing well-rounded skills and the ability to think across disciplines. Also, participating in healthcare-related extracurricular activities, like volunteering, shadowing doctors, or conducting research, can boost your application and demonstrate your dedication to medicine.
In the end, Christabel, the most suitable major is one that you are truly passionate about and can excel in, as strong academic performance and genuine interest in your field of study are key for medical school success. By combining your chosen major with the required science classes and gaining relevant experience, you can set yourself on a solid path towards a medical career while also pursuing your academic passions.
Mary Jane Shroyer
Director of Health Professions Career Community
113
Answers
Grinnell, Iowa
Updated
Mary Jane’s Answer
Hi Christabel! After years of speaking with medical school admissions directors, I can assure you that medical schools do not care what your major is, so you can pick anything that interests you. You do need to have prerequisite courses which include:
1 year introductory biology
1 year general chemistry
1 year organic chemistry
1 year introductory physics
1 semester of math (some schools specifically require calculus or statistics)
1 year of English
The MCAT exam for admission also tests psychology, sociology, and biochemistry, so the majority of pre-med students also take those. Your in-state medical school may have additional requirements I didn't list here.
If you talk with your academic and prehealth advisors in college early about your interests and goals, you will likely be able to create a plan that allows you to major in English or Political Science while also taking the pre-med requirements. Sometimes non-science majors have difficulty fitting courses in around science classes because labs take up several large blocks from your week, so you may find too many conflicts if the non-science departments have very limited offerings or hold all their majors-level classes on lab days. Be aware of that potential issue, but don't worry too much until you actually have a conversation with someone who understands the college's system. I've had students take some classes during the summers in college so they didn't have to give up a non-STEM major. That's a possibility, but it depends on how much extra time and money you are willing to invest.
I do recommend my advisees who are not STEM majors consider taking a couple of upper-level biology courses related to human health, like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, etc. It helps them do better on the MCAT and medical schools seem to feel more confident about their ability to do well in science-based med school classes with more than the intro level biology.
1 year introductory biology
1 year general chemistry
1 year organic chemistry
1 year introductory physics
1 semester of math (some schools specifically require calculus or statistics)
1 year of English
The MCAT exam for admission also tests psychology, sociology, and biochemistry, so the majority of pre-med students also take those. Your in-state medical school may have additional requirements I didn't list here.
If you talk with your academic and prehealth advisors in college early about your interests and goals, you will likely be able to create a plan that allows you to major in English or Political Science while also taking the pre-med requirements. Sometimes non-science majors have difficulty fitting courses in around science classes because labs take up several large blocks from your week, so you may find too many conflicts if the non-science departments have very limited offerings or hold all their majors-level classes on lab days. Be aware of that potential issue, but don't worry too much until you actually have a conversation with someone who understands the college's system. I've had students take some classes during the summers in college so they didn't have to give up a non-STEM major. That's a possibility, but it depends on how much extra time and money you are willing to invest.
I do recommend my advisees who are not STEM majors consider taking a couple of upper-level biology courses related to human health, like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, etc. It helps them do better on the MCAT and medical schools seem to feel more confident about their ability to do well in science-based med school classes with more than the intro level biology.
Thank you for the advice, Mary Jane.
Christabel