Pre-Health Professions

Health professions such as medicine, physical therapy and pharmacy are some of the most in-demand careers in today's world. Penn State Behrend prepares you for these careers through strong science programs taught by dedicated and engaging faculty.

Although some institutions offer a specific “Pre-Medical” degree, applicants with an undergraduate degree in a science discipline have higher admission rates to medical and other health-related professional schools. Biology and chemistry are among the possible majors for students interested in a career in healthcare. Within these majors, students can further tailor their curriculum by choosing the option that best fits their career goals and interests. Students can also strengthen their resume by participating in undergraduate research with faculty who are internationally recognized in their research fields. The strong background you receive at Penn State Behrend will also prepare you for alternative careers should your career objectives change over the course of your studies.

Occasionally, there are Pre-Health events at Penn State Behrend that are geared toward students in the Pre-Health program or students pursuing degrees in the medical fields. Check out a recent event on the Behrend Blog, "Pre-Health students sew first stitches in medical career."

Health Professions Preparation Programs

• Medicine
• Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Physician Assistant or Physical or Occupational Therapy
• Veterinary Medicine

Although most students interested in health careers finish their degrees at Penn State Behrend, we also offer special accelerated and early admissions programs for health-related professional schools. These programs target exceptionally motivated students who meet specific admissions criteria. The accelerated programs allow you to attend Penn State Behrend for three years and complete the undergraduate degree in biology during your first year in professional school.

Special Pre-Health Programs

• Penn State Hershey College of Medicine Early Assurance Program
• 3+4 Accelerated Program in Primary Care
• 3+4 Accelerated Program in Pharmacy
• 3+4 Accelerated Program In Optometry
• Medical Technology Option
• Premedical Certificate (For non-science majors)

Resources

• Instructions for requesting a committee evaluation and letters of recommendation

• Accelerated Program applications are due no later than January 15, 2019, to be considered for Fall 2019 academic year.

• Request more information.