UChicago Premed Requirements

Hey y'all! I'm a junior considering UChicago for premed. Does anyone know what courses and requirements I should keep in mind to make sure I'm prepared? Thanks in advance!

Hello! UChicago is a great choice for premed students, so it's good to be mindful of the required courses and other considerations as you prepare. While there isn't a specific "premed major," premed students, regardless of their actual major, do engage in a curriculum that satisfies the prerequisites for medical school admission. Here's a general list of courses you'll want to take during your time at UChicago:

1. General Biology: usually a two-course sequence with lab components

2. General Chemistry: typically a two-course sequence with lab components

3. Organic Chemistry: a two-course sequence with lab components

4. Physics: usually a two-course sequence with lab components

5. Biochemistry: one course (lab component is optional but recommended)

6. Mathematics: one to two courses in calculus or statistics (depending on medical school requirements)

7. English or Writing: one to two courses (depending on medical school requirements)

8. Social & Behavioral Sciences: one to two courses in subjects like psychology, sociology, or anthropology

Keep in mind that individual medical schools may have additional prerequisites, so it's essential to research your prospective schools' requirements. Additionally, you should aim for a competitive GPA throughout your undergraduate years, across all your classes, as medical schools place a strong emphasis on academics. It's also important to get involved in extracurricular activities, such as research, clinical experiences, shadowing, and volunteering, to demonstrate your commitment to medicine as a career.

As you're planning your academic schedule at UChicago, consider working with pre-health advising resources, particularly during your first year. They can guide you through the process of fulfilling premed requirements and help you assess which courses best align with your interests and major preferences.

Best of luck on your premed journey!