About the College

Pre-Professional Programs

The College of Arts and Sciences offers a diverse array of programs that prepare students for a variety of opportunities after graduation.  Students who are considering a professional program, such as medical or law school, often select a major in the College of Arts and Sciences as a foundation for their future studies. 

Students interested in dentistry, medicine, optometry, pharmacy, or veterinary medicine often pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology or Chemistry, as many of the prerequisite science and mathematics courses required for these professional schools are part of the major’s academic requirements.  The faculty of the Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences and of the Department of Chemistry can also help students gain research experience and other opportunities that will set them apart as competitive candidates for professional school. 

Students are encouraged to add a Pre-Professional designation, such as “Pre-Medicine” or “Pre-Pharmacy” to their academic record, in addition to their declared major.  This designation will ensure that students are receiving tailored guidance and will connect students with the comprehensive pre-professional services offered by the Center for Career Development and Exploration.

Students interested in law often pursue a Bachelor of Arts in History, English, International Relations, Philosophy, Political Science, or Psychology.  While there are no required prerequisite courses for law school, these programs provide excellent preparation due to their focus on developing research and writing skills. Our philosophy degree features a dedicated Pre-Law track within the major, and each of the programs listed above offers an accelerated 3+3 opportunity with the College of Law.

Students are encouraged to add a “Pre-Law” designation to their academic record, in addition to their declared major.  This designation will ensure that students are receiving tailored guidance and will connect students with the comprehensive pre-professional services offered by the Center for Career Development and Exploration.