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Pre-Health FAQ

As you pursue a career in a professional health field, you’re bound to have questions about the process. Here are some of the most asked questions from students. If you have additional questions, you can set up an appointment with an adviser.

Are SLU undergraduate students guaranteed an interview with SLU’s School of Medicine?
Yes! Enrolled undergraduate students are granted an interview with the Saint Louis University School of Medicine if they meet GPA and MCAT requirements. 
What is the best pre-med major?
One major isn’t preferred over another as long as you’re able to complete the prerequisite courses for medical school. The majority of medical school applicants major in biological, physical or social sciences.
What is the best pre-optometry major?

Students planning to apply to optometry school often major in biology but you can choose any major that allows you to complete the prerequisite courses you’ll need.

What is the best pre-dental major?

While you can choose any major or degree, the standard requirements for admission to most dental schools include courses in biology, chemistry and physics, including lectures and labs in each area. If you don’t major in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, neuroscience or biomedical engineering, it’s strongly recommended that you minor in biology.

What is the best pre-veterinary major?

Students interested in attending veterinary school can choose any major but commonly focus on subjects like biology, math, physics and chemistry. Colleges of veterinary medicine also encourage applicants to take classes like animal reproduction, anatomy, genetics and statistics as part of their curriculum.

I’m not a biology major. Do I have to take an upper-level biology course?

You’re not required to take biology courses beyond BIOL 1260/1265 but most health-professional schools recommend high-level biology courses.

I want to raise my math/science GPA. What should I take?

Don’t enroll in a lower-level math course to raise your GPA. Professional health admissions committees look beyond the GPA to the rigor of the coursework. Instead, if you’ve already taken Calculus I, you should take Calculus II or Statistics.

I’ve decided I’m not interested in medical school. What do I do?

Consider taking Introduction to the Helping Professions (PPHS 1020) to see what other careers may be right for you. Career Services can also help you figure out your next steps.