When you think of healthcare, do you think of doctors and nurses? What some people may not realize is that there are many more essential personnel in today’s healthcare systems. The healthcare field grows at an exponential rate every year, and if you’re considering majoring in this field, it helps to keep an open mind about the particular tracks to pursue.

 

Are you considering applying to medical school?

Biomedical Sciences is a common major for those who plan on attending medical school and so are Biology, Chemistry and other natural sciences. Medical schools accept students with a variety of baccalaureate degrees! Acceptance requires a certain grade point average and making sure you have taken the required prerequisites, which include:

• General Chemistry with Lab
• General Biology with Lab
• Mathematics (Calculus is recommended)
• Organic Chemistry with Lab
• General Physics with Lab
• Mathematics
• Humanities
• English Composition or Literature

Are you considering pursuing a Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy graduate degree?

These are the courses you will likely need to take in your undergraduate degree to be eligible for an advanced degree in PT/OT (most healthcare-related majors will includes these prerequisites).

• English Composition (2 courses)
• Social Sciences (3 courses--at least two of which must be Psychology)
• Precalculus Algebra/Trigonometry or Higher Mathematics (1 course)
• Statistics (1 course)
• College Physics - with labs (2 semester or 3 quarter sequence)
• General Chemistry for science majors - with labs (2 semester or 3 quarter sequence)
• General or Cell Biology for science majors - with labs (2 semester or 3 quarter sequence)
• Human Physiology, Mammalian Physiology OR a course sequence in Anatomy and Physiology (minimum 6 credits). Human Physiology is preferred.

If you’re considering a career in these fields, be sure to talk to an advisor to make sure you choose the right undergraduate healthcare major. If you’re unsure of which healthcare career is right for you, advisors will also be able to help suggest courses in which you can explore your interests.

Do you see yourself working closely with medical technology?

There are many healthcare degrees that do not require advanced studies. For example, Radiologic Sciences prepares students to become radiographers, who operate various types of medical scanning equipment and guide patients through the scanning process to ensure quality diagnostic images are produced. Cardiorespiratory Care majors are students preparing to become advanced respiratory therapists: the people who evaluate, treat, and care for patients who are battling various breathing issues. EMS majors prepare to become first responders known as Paramedics or Emergency Medical Technicians.

The healthcare field is so diverse. Take some time to explore your options, and keep an open mind. You never know what you’ll learn.