It’s 2023, and a lot of aspiring medical students are seeking the best pre-med courses that would help them in their journey. This Pre-med courses list will help these aspiring students to select the right medical courses that would help them achieve their goals.
The journey to becoming a medical doctor is a long one that will require, years of effort, commitment, study, and a good choice of pre-med courses in the beginning.
There are numerous paths to becoming a licensed physician, but all of them include medical school. Students cannot be admitted to medical school unless they have adequate standardized test scores, received letters of recommendation, and have completed some of the pre-med courses that we will be sharing shortly in this list of pre-med courses.
It’s no big surprise that getting into medical college is a difficult and competitive process. If you’re serious about a career in medicine, you already know that you’ll need good grades and a high MCAT score to get into a good med school.
But what else should you focus on to become a competitive applicant? What are the best pre-med courses to take as an undergraduate? This pre-med courses list and guide will assist in addressing some of the questions that aspiring doctors have about selecting the best pre-med courses that will help them achieve their dreams of making a difference in the world of medicine. Let’s first get to know what pre-med courses are.
What are pre-med courses?
The pre-medical program is designed specifically for high school students interested in pursuing a medical career. It is also advantageous for those who do not have the prerequisite courses to be eligible for the MD program.
Pre-med is a common term used to describe students who are completing the prerequisite courses for medical school admission.
The pre-med course is similar to a foundation program in that it provides students with advanced science courses that will help them excel in their first year of medical school. It is beneficial to plan ahead of time to complete the rigors of the MD program.
The pre-med program also bridges the gap for some students who may be missing required courses for medical school admission.
What classes do you take for pre-med?
As an aspiring medical doctor who wants to study medicine in the US, you have to show proof of required pre-med courses.
The best pre-med courses lay the groundwork for advanced science courses such as biology and organic chemistry, which will be useful in medical school.
Most of the best pre-med courses also offer combined anatomy and physiology courses, which will make the first year of medical school less stressful. This is because the common pre-medical pathway has several advantages.
You can read our guide to learn about the best undergraduate degree for medical schools in Canada. This is for those interested in getting a medical degree in Canada.
How to choose the best pre-med in 2022
Whereas science majors are undoubtedly more common, medical schools emphasize their preference for well-rounded students with diverse undergraduate backgrounds.
Regardless of your major, your undergraduate transcript plays an important role in the admissions decision. If you are a science major, one way to broaden your education is to take at least some social science and humanities electives.
If you are not a science major, your work in both science and non-science courses will be evaluated. With fewer courses to judge your science ability on, your grades in core science subjects will be more important. Consider taking at least a few more science classes, such as biochemistry, cell biology, or genetics.
Carefully go through the pre-med courses list available, don’t pick a course because you believe it will get you into medical school. Choose a pre-med course that piques your interest. You will perform better and have a more enjoyable college experience.
Pre Medical school requirements in the USA
You will be required to complete certain coursework prerequisites during your pre-medical education. In addition, you should choose additional courses in the sciences and humanities to supplement this core curriculum, thereby improving your education and application to medical school.
Most schools agree on the fundamental components of pre-medical education. One year of biology, general (inorganic) chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and related lab work is required as a minimum. Furthermore, approximately two-thirds of the courses require English, and approximately one-quarter require calculus.
A few schools do not have specific course requirements.
Remember that because the MCAT covers material from commonly required pre-med courses, you must include those courses in your program of study whether or not they are medical school prerequisites. Nonetheless, many students are surprised to learn how short the list of courses required by medical schools is.
List of required Pre-med courses in the USA
The following is the list of required pre-med courses in the USA, these courses are also the best pre-med courses for you in the USA:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Medical history or medical Anthropology
- Microbiology
- Human Biology
- Public Health
- Psychology/Sociology
- A foreign language
- English
- Mathematics.
- Pharmacy
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Radiologic Technology
- Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering
-
Nursing.
#1. Human Anatomy and Physiology
Human anatomy is one of the most important required pre-med courses in the field of health because it teaches us about the morphology, relationships, and function of the various structures of the human body and provides us with a foundation for understanding organic function in both healthy and sick people.
Medicine’s curriculum typically begins with Anatomy, one of the most comprehensive subjects in the profession.
#2. Biochemistry
Since the MCAT’s increased emphasis on biochemistry, it has gotten a lot more attention. Some schools require it, while others simply assume you know if you took the MCAT.
#3. Medical history or medical Anthropology
One of the most intriguing aspects of medicine is the way it has changed and evolved. A background in medical history will help you understand the evolution of medical knowledge and how it may change in the future.
#4. Microbiology
Biology can be another good option for pre-med students, especially if your school does not offer a Human Biology major and/or you prefer a general biology background rather than a focus on human bodies. As a biology major, you’ll learn a lot about human health, but you’ll also likely take classes in ecology, evolution, and/or microbiology.
#5. Human Biology
Human biology would be the unofficial pre-med major if there were such a thing. It’s the most commonly required pre-med course for pre-med students at many schools because it focuses heavily on many of the subjects you’ll study as a med student.
You’ll take classes in a variety of subjects, but the human body and human health will be your main focus. You could study genetics, human physiology, and neurobiology, among other things.
Pre-Med Courses List
#6. Public Health
Seeking a degree in public health allows students to investigate medical industry policies and processes, and it may be one of the best pre-med courses. Choosing this type of program exposes pre-med students to a side of medicine that many do not see and may not fully comprehend as doctors. During their undergraduate careers, students make invaluable connections through internships and working with hospital professionals in areas such as healthcare policy, prevention, and substance abuse.
#7. Psychology and Sociology
Since their inclusion on the revised MCAT, psychology and sociology have grown in popularity as medical school prerequisites.
This major, as a social science discipline that seeks to unravel the mysteries of the mind and human behavior, can be a valuable asset to physicians. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and assists students in developing these skills. A psychology degree will typically include research, statistics, and service-learning courses, all of which are directly applicable to healthcare, thus making the course to be among the best pre-med courses.
#8. A foreign language
Foreign language is also included on the pre-med courses list because learning a second language is a valuable skill for any medical student or physician. It not only broadens your career options but also allows you to connect with more diverse populations and become a better provider.
#9. English
Although it may appear unusual to be listed among the best pre-med courses list, English majors are well-represented in the medical field. It should come as no surprise that English majors can and do make excellent physicians, given that studying literature necessitates critical thinking, research, attention to detail, and excellent writing and citation skills. Excellent reading comprehension skills are also beneficial for performing well on the MCAT exam.
#10. Mathematics
Some schools in their required pre-med courses require math as a prerequisite for pre-med courses, while others require statistics. Regardless, the majority of schools require at least one semester of math. From determining proper dosage to reading lab results, there is a surprising amount of basic math and statistics that are important for daily life as a physician or health professional.
#11.Pharmacy
You’ve been taking some kind of medicine or vitamin since you were born to keep you healthy or to treat an ailment.
Pharmacy is a pre-medical course that focuses on pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other related substances.
This four-year degree program will teach you the process of creating drugs for disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
#12. Nutrition and Dietetics
A Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSND) degree will help you learn about food and healthy eating. Nutrition science is excellent preparation for graduate studies in nutrition or other health and life sciences programs.
#13. Radiologic Technology
A degree in Radiologic Technology will prepare you to operate various medical equipment such as CT scanners, MRIs, and X-rays. Radiologic technologists are in charge of performing imaging examinations on patients.
They ensure that patients are properly positioned on the lab equipment so that a high-quality diagnostic image is produced.
#14. Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering
If you want to apply biology principles and techniques to the field of medicine, you should look into degrees in biomedical sciences or biomedical engineering. These programs of study can assist you in developing the skills necessary to invent new medical technologies.
Biomedical sciences and bioengineering are comparatively recent areas of study, but they are expanding rapidly, so they should be on the list of pre-med courses for prospective medical students.
#15.Nursing
Nursing is an excellent pre-med course to take because you will gain more hands-on experience even during your undergraduate years. Pre-med in Nursing is also advantageous because nursing consists of four major components: health promotion, disease prevention, risk reduction, and health restoration.
Most popular pre-med Courses list for students all over the world
There is a long road ahead of you if you want to study medicine in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, Denmark, Japan, or Singapore.
To begin, you must excel in high school with high grades and a strong aptitude for math and science. You must also have a strong interest in medicine and the human body.
This passion will serve you well as you progress through the four-year pre-med program, three years of medical school, residency, and subsequent specialty work.
You will put in a lot of effort during this time, but the ultimate satisfaction of becoming a medical doctor will pay off in both financial and personal satisfaction.
The most popular pre-med courses listed for global students are as follows:
- Biology
- Psychology
- Pharmacy
- Medical technology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Nursing
- Radiologic technology
- Physical therapy.
List of the best places to study abroad for pre-med
The school you attend for your pre-med courses can have an impact on your performance in medical school. Every medical student desires to attend an excellent school in other to lay a solid foundation for medical college.
The countries listed below are the best places in the world to study pre-med.
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- United States
- Japan
- Germany
- Canada
- France
- Denmark.
#1. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has a long history of educating pre-med students from all over the world. Pre-med students from the United Kingdom are well-known throughout the world for their practical clinical skills, intellectual rigor, and personal qualities such as professionalism and compassion. Furthermore, the UK is very engaged with the international community, and they recognize that international students bring cultural diversity to the classroom, which enriches everyone’s experience.
The British education system attracts top minds from both within the country and from around the world. The system provides them with carefully planned teaching and experiences with experts and researchers in the field, allowing them to maximize their potential.
#2. Australia
Australia is home to some of the world’s most prestigious medical programs. The first step in studying medicine in this country is to ensure that you have completed the prerequisite pre-med course and have the required academic scores. The exact academic score required to enroll in medicine will vary depending on the institution and your previous qualifications.
#3. United States
The United States, as one of the world’s leaders in medical and scientific innovation, is an excellent choice for pre-med programs. It is home to some of the world’s best universities, and each year, a large number of international students choose this country as their college destination. In a fast-paced society, the United States prepares its students with good research and innovative education as they hone the skills and knowledge required for their subsequent years in medical schools.
#4. Japan
If you want to study pre-med in an Asian country, Japan is a good option. A technologically advanced country places a high value on education, making it an excellent choice for your pre-med programs. Japan has modern facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology in the health and medical industries.
Furthermore, the degrees and programs offered here are globally recognized. Japanese universities are well-known for their academic excellence.
#4. Germany
Germany is well-known for its high-quality college grads. German universities have a strong reputation for providing high-quality education to both domestic and international students. Their higher education is dedicated to establishing students’ skills and knowledge, so they provide students with hands-on learning. Incoming pre-med students throughout the country can lay a solid foundation for their medical program.
#5. Canada
When applying to medical school, the Canadian Pre-med program you attend can make all the difference. Everything you’ll learn, from skills to practical knowledge, will help you prepare for a career as a doctor.
Pre-Medical programs in Canada equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in medical school. These programs place a strong emphasis on STEM subjects, as well as clinical learning environments. Students also gain critical thinking, scientific knowledge, and problem-solving abilities that are required of medical professionals. These abilities are essential for success in the field of medicine and aid in the preparation of students for successful medical school admission and study.
#6. France
France has a long history of serious knowledge and expertise. They are remembered for their contributions to medicine, as they made breakthroughs that had a global impact. If you study pre-med programs in this country, you will be exposed to one of the world’s most historical educations and will be trained by well-known mentors. Because their medical schools are competitive, you’ll receive extensive training in your pre-med programs to ensure you have a solid foundation.
#7. Denmark
Pre-med students in Denmark gain a solid foundation in science and medicine through their respective programs, which teach both theory and practice.
Denmark also offers a welcoming environment to international students. These students have access to a wide range of learning opportunities, as well as the opportunity to learn about Denmark’s rich culture. The majority of international students are pleased with their educational experience.
List of colleges with a good pre-med program
Below is the list of colleges where you can enroll for a good pre-med program to medical school in the United States.
- Harvard College
- Duke University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Rice University
- Stanford University
- Northwestern University
- Brown University
- Amherst College
- Case Western Reserve University.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pre-med degree?
Choosing the right course can alter your pre-medical path for the better or the worse. Not only should you look for schools with strong pre-med advising; but you should also make sure that your college is a good fit in terms of size, location, extracurriculars, and other factors.
Learn about the best undergraduate degrees for medical schools by reading our guide. It is critical to remember that the best pre-med courses come in all shapes and sizes. When selecting the best pre-med program in 2022, take into account all relevant factors.
How does this list of the best pre-med courses help global pre-med students?
Medical schools are extremely competitive, and only the best students are admitted. As a result, proper planning is essential. The following are the most important factors to consider for pre-med students seeking admission to medical school:
Improved Test Scores – The best pre-med course enables students to show competence in a variety of subjects which enables them to excel in MCAT exams. The MCAT has a 500-point average and is a 7.5-hour test with four sections: Biological Systems, Behavior, Critical Analysis, and Reasoning Skills.
Comprehensive Classes – The best pre-med courses, expose students to all of the necessary prerequisite coursework. Biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, biochemistry, math, and English are typical subjects covered. These are the bare minimum of classes needed to meet the fundamental levels in medical schools. Furthermore, given the high level of competition for admission to medical schools, additional knowledge of these topics may be beneficial. Genetics, public health, human physiology, microbiology, psychology, sociology, and foreign languages are among the other classes available.
Is pre-med course difficult?
Pre-med is considered hard since you must balance college work with research/ECs that demonstrate your interests in both medicine and possibly other areas (eg. music) Also, because of the grading curve, it can be difficult to get high grades in the pre-med courses while also studying for the MCAT exam.
Conclusion
There is no exhaustive list of the best pre-med majors for future doctors. As you begin compiling the necessary pieces of a stand-out med school application, your best bet is to choose a subject that excites you.
Once you’ve decided on a major, look for a school with a well-established pre-medical program that can provide you with the guidance and support you’ll need all along
