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Pre-Medical Program Advice - Columbus State University

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Department of Biology

Pre-Medical Program Advice

Note: If you are interested in pursuing a medical degree or in taking the MCAT, check out the Competitive Pre-Med Program page.

Most medical schools require that you take the following classes, and most schools prefer (or require in some cases) that you take these classes in person (not online). All these courses fit easily within the BS and BA Biology degree programs.

  • One year of English (ENGL 1101 and 1102)
  • One year of biology with labs (BIOL 1107K and 1108K)
  • One year of physics with labs (PHYS 1111 and 1311; 1112 and 1312)
  • One year of general chemistry with labs (CHEM 1211 and 1211L; 1212 and 1212L)
  • One year of organic chemistry with labs (CHEM 3111 and 3311; 3112 and 3312)
  • One year of mathematics (often through statistics; some schools also want calculus)

Some medical schools have additional requirements that can include several other biomedically related electives such as biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, immunology, microbiology, virology, and genetics. It's important to note that medical schools periodically adjust their pre-requisites. It's always good to check each medical school's website as you plan your academic semesters to ensure that your courses prepare you for the school(s) you want to apply to.

In addition, the following courses will help you prepare for the MCAT: physiology, Biochemistry (CHEM 3141), Genetics (BIOL 3216K), Cell Biology (BIOL 3215K), Introduction to Psychology (PSYC 1101), and Introduction to Sociology (SOCI 1101). Most of these courses will fit within the BS and BA Biology degree programs with proper planning. Work closely with your advisor when choosing classes each semester.