Pre-Health Careers
Pre-Health Course of Studies
Although a student seeking to enter the health professions field may major in any academic field in which they have a strong interest, many students major in biology or the physical sciences as they generally must complete the below minimal course requirements. It is strongly advised that you plan to complete these courses by the end of your sophomore year. Additionally, depending upon the program you desire to enter, you may have additional course requirements.
| Required Courses: | |
|---|---|
| 2 semesters of General Biology, with laboratory | BIOL 128 and 129 |
| 2 semesters of General Chemistry, with laboratory | PHYS 109 and 111 |
| 2 semesters of Organic Chemistry, with laboratory | PHYS 201 and 203 |
| 2 semesters of General Physics, with laboratory | PHYS 115 and 117 |
| PHYS 119 and 121 | |
| 2 semesters of English | ENGL 101 and 102 |
Note: Mathematics requirements vary by discipline and specific medical schools, although most require a year of math, and a few require a semester or a year of calculus. Furthermore, some medical schools require calculus based physics. Therefore, it is recommended that students determine the math and physics requirements of their desired discipline.
Pre-Medical & Pre-Health Studies
It is the goal of the Biology Department at Westfield State College to advise and assist students seeking a career in the health professions. In addition to providing specialized advising (see below), we assist students in seeking internships at Nobel Hospital and Bay State Medical Center, our local hospitals.
The Biology Department provides students seeking to enter the health professions with the "Student Guide to the Health Professions " packet providing information about preparing for these professions.