As medical technology advances, people live longer, which means we need more Physicians and Specialists, Nurses and other Health Professionals. Medical conditions that used to be life-threatening now can be treated with medications and improve quality of life for the patients,
Pre-medical, often referred to as pre-med, is an educational track that undergraduate students in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom pursue before becoming medical students. It involves activities that prepare a student for medical schools, such as pre-med coursework, volunteer activities, clinical experience, research, and application.
Pre-medicine Description: A program that prepares individuals for admission to a professional program in medicine, osteopathic medicine, or podiatric medicine.
The required and elective courses you would take for Pre-Medicine Pre-medical Studies majors vary considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience you to major in this field.
It may surprise you that medical schools typically require one year each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, general physics, and English, but majoring in science isn’t necessarily required or encouraged by many medical schools.
Because students have to fulfil the science requirements, many study science as their primary major. Although as we explored above, the liberal arts route can be an attractive way to understand all subjects while fulfilling requirements. It’s really up to you!
Here are four popular pre-med majors:
1. Biology
Biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations
2. Chemistry
Chemistry program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behaviour of matter, including its micro-and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena
3. Physics
Physics focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behaviour of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.
4. Liberal Arts
The Liberal Arts program is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing the breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs
All of the above are good majors for medical school– there isn’t a definite “right track” for getting into a good program. However, as long as you meet the course requirements and complete the MCAT, admissions staff generally look for well-rounded individuals who demonstrate a passion for medicine.
5. Health studies
Health studies is another good option for Pre-Med Majors. Health studies may allow you to learn about different types of health care and how they are delivered. You may also be able to learn about public health issues and how they are addressed. Some health studies options include medical anthropology, epidemiology, public health, and nursing.
6. Engineering
Bioengineering is a good option for pre-med majors because it offers the opportunity to develop multiple skills and knowledge in the biomedical field. Bioengineers must be able to work with complex scientific formulas and theories and design and conduct experiments. The degree also provides students with the training needed to work in various medical settings, such as hospitals, research labs, and clinics.
7. Nursing
Nursing is an excellent option for pre-med majors. It offers a great range of career opportunities, from working in hospitals to working as a private practitioner. It’s also one of the most affordable career paths.
8. Kinesiology
Kinesiology is a highly respected and popular field of study for pre-med majors. It offers students a unique perspective on the body and its functions and the tools they need to assess the injury and develop treatment plans. Kinesiology also prepares students for careers in sports medicine, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and other health-related fields.
