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Pre-Professional Preparations
Dentistry
Most dental colleges review a prospective student’s overall academic record for admissions, paying
special attention to the student’s performance in science courses. Therefore, the most advisable
major is Biological Science. The general courses required are the same as for pre-medical
students and should be completed prior to taking the DAT examination in the junior year. Predental
students should plan a course of study which matches the requirements of the preferred
dental school. These vary even more widely than medical schools, so close advising is very
helpful.
Law
An undergraduate education in the liberal arts is the best preparation for students interested in
law school, although Pre-law concentration students may major in a number of disciplines.
Students obtain a Pre-law Concentration designation on their transcripts by taking 18 approved
upper-division units as part of or in addition to their major. Suggested courses include Social
Psychology, Social and Political Philosophy, Presentation Strategies, and Moral Choices in
Contemporary Society.
Learn more about Holy Names University's Pre-Law Preparation Programs
Medicine
Historically, Holy Names University students intending to enter the medical fields have majored
in Biological Science or Chemistry. However, medical schools give equal consideration to students
with any major, as long as students have completed the prerequisite coursework that can
be satisfied by the Health/Medicine Concentration. Thus, a student interested in medicine should
consider personal interest, aptitude and alternative career goals when deciding upon a major field
of undergraduate study.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is closely related to Physical Therapy in orientation. It differs only in additional
requirements in psychology and the arts. Most Masters’ programs in OT require a year of
general biology (BIOL 1A, 1B), anatomy and physiology (BIOL 117 and 115), psychology (PSYC
1A, 1B, 131, 168) and sociology (SOCI 1). For further information contact the advisor for Pre-
Health Science in the Biological Science Department.
Pharmacy
Students wishing to enter the career of pharmacy should major in Biological Science or a self designed
major including Chemistry. They need coursework in statistics (PSYC 63), microbiology
(BIOL 145) and biochemistry (CHEM 130 and/or 185).
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy candidates are strongly encouraged to major in Biological Science at Holy Names
University. The entrance requirements for physical therapy include general chemistry, general
biology and general physics, as well as courses in human anatomy, systemic physiology, health,
physical education and psychology. Additional courses in psychology, sociology, statistics, health
and physical education may also be needed depending upon the requirements of the Master’s
program chosen. For further information contact the advisor of Pre-Professional Health Science.
Veterinary Medicine
Biological Science and Chemistry are the traditional majors for pre-Vet-Med students. However,
as with pre-med, any major is an option for a student desiring to become a veterinarian. The
coursework requirements are identical to those for Pre-Medicine (see above under Medicine).
Some schools have specific requirements for statistics (PSYC 63) and developmental
biology/embryology (BIOL 105). Experience working with animals is a universal prerequisite for
admissions to veterinary programs, and graduates also must take the Graduate Record
Examination (GRE). It is best to obtain a catalog from the prospective schools and complete the
courses required for the school of choice. Close contact with and advising from the advisor for
Pre-Health Science in the Biological Science Department is strongly recommended for the entire
undergraduate program.
Other Health Professions
Holy Names University provides pre-professional preparation for many other health care fields
including clinical sciences, medical laboratory technology, respiratory therapy, optometry, podiatry,
dental hygiene and chiropractic medicine. Students interested in any of the above fields
should contact the advisor for Pre-Health Science in the Biological Science Department.
Learn more about Holy Names University's Pre-Professional Health Science Programs
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