Can I major or minor in Pre-Health?
UCM doesn't have a Pre-Health major or official program to join, rather you identify as Pre-Health if you are pursuing a future in health-related fields.
Is Dentistry or Nursing considered Pre-Health?
Yes, anything health related is considered Pre-Health.
Can I still get into SJV PRIME+?
No, SJV PRIME+ is a BS-MD program and applicants must be high school seniors.
When do I take the MCAT?
Students generally take the MCAT the spring before they plan to apply to medical school, often times during their gap year.
When do I apply for medical school?
Students are encouraged to apply when they are ready. Many students take a gap year (a year after they graduate) and apply during that year.
When do I start clinical hours?
Students are encouraged to start clinical hours when they are ready. Clinical hours is a time commitment and can be time consuming, students will need to manage their school work and clinical hours.
Can I start clinical hours in my first year?
It is advised to get adjusted to college courses first, and once you feel you are ready to then begin clinical experiences.
Can you place me in clinical opportunities?
We do not place students in clinical opportunities but we can help guide students in finding sites to do their clinical hours at.
What should I be focusing on in my first year of college as a Pre-Health student?
Students should focus on earning a competitive GPA, getting adjusted to college life, and making connections with other students and professors.
Will I have to take a gap year after earning my undergraduate degree?
Most Pre-Health students take 1-2 gap years but it is not required. Gap years provide time to focus on preparing for standardized testing (i.e. MCAT) obtaining longitudinal clinical experiences, and applying.
What classes should I take?
Most schools want similar classes, but always double-check specific requirements for your intended school/program.
Core Courses (usually required):
2 semesters English
2 semesters Math (often including statistics or calculus)
2 semesters Intro Biology + Advanced Biology
2 semesters Intro Chemistry
2 semesters Organic Chemistry
2 semesters Physics
Commonly Recommended/Required at Some Schools:
Biochemistry (very common for medical, dental, and vet)
Microbiology (often for pharmacy schools)
Genetics
Cell Biology
Anatomy & Physiology (helpful for med school, PA, PT, and nursing)
Psychology & Sociology (MCAT and many health schools)
Public Health or Health Sciences
Humanities & Social Sciences (to strengthen communication & critical thinking)
Do AP credits count?
Some schools accept them, others don’t.
Always check each school’s policy.
Talk to a pre-health advisor about whether to keep or retake credits.
Do I have to be a biology major to be pre-med?
Many pre-med students are biology majors but you don't have to be. Common majors for pre-med include Chemistry, Biology, Public Health, and Engineering.
It just might require additional classes to meet requirements
How can I explore health careers?
Join pre-health clubs or honor societies
Shadow or interview healthcare professionals
Volunteer in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers
Apply for summer programs & internships
Conduct research with faculty
Take part in service-learning or outreach projects
Read books & articles about health careers
What is offered for a Pre-Health student at UCM?
Advising to guide your path
Tutoring (Bright Success & STEM Resource Centers): chemistry, biology, math
Small Classes → stronger professor connections, recommendation letters, & research opportunities
Clubs & Organizations: Pre-med, pre-dental, and others for networking & leadership opportunities
Workshops & Events: Application prep, test prep, and professional development
Tip: Always check requirements for the schools you plan to apply to (AAMC for medical, ADEA for dental, others for pharmacy, vet, etc.).
