Hi all! I'm a high school junior looking into pre-med, and I'm wondering about degree requirements for pre-med students. What kinds of classes should I expect, and are there any specific requirements I should be aware of before I start college?
Hello! It's great to see that you're considering the pre-med pathway. Keep in mind that "pre-med" is not a specific major, but rather a set of required courses and experiences that prepare you for medical school. These requirements can vary slightly from college to college, but there are some core classes that you should expect to take as a pre-med student.
Typically, pre-med students must complete coursework in the following general areas:
1. Biology: At least one year of general biology with corresponding laboratory sessions. Additional courses like genetics, cell biology, or microbiology can be beneficial as well.
2. Chemistry: One year of general chemistry and one year of organic chemistry, both with labs. Many pre-med students also take biochemistry, as it is often required or recommended for medical school admission.
3. Physics: One year of physics with labs, covering both mechanics and electricity and magnetism.
4. Mathematics: One to two semesters of calculus and/or statistics. Specific requirements can vary between schools, so check with your college's pre-med program for their guidelines.
5. English: One year of college-level writing or literature classes.
6. Social Sciences: Some medical schools require courses in psychology or sociology.
7. Additional courses: While not always required, many pre-med students take courses in anatomy, physiology, and other advanced science classes to further prepare for medical school.
In addition to coursework, many pre-med students focus on building a strong resume through involvement in medical-related extracurricular activities such as research, shadowing physicians, volunteering in hospitals or clinics, and participating in pre-med clubs. Gaining these experiences can help make you a competitive applicant for medical schools.
As you explore colleges, make sure to research each school's specific pre-med requirements and support systems, as this will provide you with the necessary information and guidance to prepare for medical school applications. Best of luck in your pre-med journey!
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