Health Professions Highlights

Check with each graduate school to determine the specific requirements for entrance into that institution. Some programs require a medical terminology course. It is taught periodically at St. Olaf or a one credit course can be taken through the University of
Minnesota as an extension course. Some schools require a semester of human physiology in addition to Bio 243. A possible
solution is to take an online course (PHAR 3601) taught in the summer by the U of M College of Pharmacy.

Careers highlighted are:

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Audiology (Au.D.)

American Academy of Audiology
Audiology Foundation of America

A doctor of audiology is an independent practitioner who specializes in the science assessment and rehabilitation of hearing impairment. Audiologists work in schools, clinics and hospitals.

Undergraduate requirements (BA or BS)/varies by program:

  • Biology (1-2 courses)
  • Chemistry (2-3 courses)
  • Math (1 course)
  • Physics (2 courses)
  • Psychology (1 course)
  • Social Science (2-3 courses)
  • English/Communications (2 courses)
  • Statistics (1 course)
  • Foreign Language (2 courses)
  • Test (GRE – but some schools accept other tests such as the MCAT or DAT)
  • CPR certification is needed by many institutions
  • Strongly advised to have at least 30 hours of observation in audiology prior to application
  • Interviews are required.

Graduate program is four years with course work and clinical work experience.

Chiropractic Practitioner (DC)

American Chiropractic Association
Association of Chiropractic Colleges

A chiropractor practices healing through non-drug, non-surgical means. Spinal manipulation by way of chiropractic adjustments are used to correct disturbances of the nervous system caused by de-arrangement of the musculoskeletal structure.

Undergraduate requirements (2-3 years is the minimum)

  • Bio 125, 126
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123), 126
  • Chem 247/253 and 248/254
  • Physics 124, 125
  • Psychology 125
  • English
  • Recommended: Economics
  • Test - none required
  • Interviews may be required

DC is a four-year program.

Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology (MT)

American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science
American Society for Clinical Pathology

A clinical laboratory scientist performs laboratory tests on blood, tissues or fluids of the human body using precise methods and state of the art technology. Medical technologists (also called clinical laboratory scientists) work in hematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, microbiology, phlebotomy and blood banking in a clinic or hospital setting.

Undergraduate requirements (Programs are BS 3 + 1 or 4 +1)

  • Bio 125, 231, 243
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123), 126
  • Chem 247/253 and 248/254
  • College Algebra or Calculus
  • Statistics
  • Recommended: Genetics, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
  • Test – none required
  • Interviews are usually required

Bachelors program is 3 + 1 or a 4 + 1 year (Mayo for example) or two years of clinical training (Rush).

Dentistry (DDS)

American Dental Education Association
American Dental Association

Dentists examine, diagnose, and treat patient’s teeth and gums. They often perform surgery on gums and bones, extract teeth and fill cavities in teeth. Dentists actively are involved in preventive treatment. Dentists may work as a general practitioner or specialize in orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral pathology, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, or dental public health.

Undergraduate requirements (U of M)

  • Chem 125 (or 121/123), 126
  • Organic Chemistry 247/253 and 248/254
  • Biochemistry 379 (no lab required)
  • Physics 124, 125
  • Math 120
  • Biology 125, 126
  • English (2 semesters)
  • Psychology 125
  • Preferred electives include microbiology, immunology, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, cell physiology, and art (such as Art 103). The University of Minnesota encourages students to take a histology course. An online course is offered through Colorado State University (Histology VS 331).
  • Shadowing a dentist or experiences working in a dental clinic are very valuable.
  • Test – DAT – students must take the Dental Admissions Test, which is scheduled at the student’s convenience at testing centers. Most students take the test in the summer or fall after their junior year.

Dental school is four years and graduates can practice general dentistry or acquire post-graduate training in various dental specialties.

The ADEA has a current guide to Dental schools 2010 for entry in 2011 on their website. Dental schools also use a standardized application service called the AADSAS. Applications can be paper or electronic and costs $227 for the first school and $72 for each additional school. Applicants may also obtain their application by mail at:

American Dental Education Association
1400K Street NW, Suite 100
Washington, DC 20005
202-289-7201, 800-353-2237

Applicants may submit four separate letters of evaluation or the HPC committee letter (packet) plus one additional letter (a dentist, employer, etc.) Interviews are usually required once the dental school processes the application. A dental therapy program (BA/MA) is currently being developed at the U of M.

DAT
The DAT consists of four computerized tests: Natural Science, Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension and Quantitative Reasoning. Practice tests can be found at ScholarWare or Ace the DAT.com. The DAT can only be taken three times.

The application to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), which costs $190, can be completed by contacting:

American Dental Association
Dental Admission Testing Program
Department of Testing Services
211 East Chicago Avenue, Suite 1846
Chicago, IL 60611-2678

Genetic Counselor (MS)

National Society of Genetic Counselors
American Board of Genetic Counseling

Genetic Counselors consult with individuals (and/or their families) with birth defects or genetic disorders or a family history of an inherited disorder. They serve as educators, resources, supportive counselors and investigators. They work in clinics, medical centers or in a research facility.

Undergraduate requirements (BA or BS, varies by program – listed below is U of M)

  • Bio 233
  • Bio 125
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126
  • Chem 247/253 and 248/254
  • Chem 379 (no lab required)
  • Statistics
  • Psychology and Sociology (2 courses)
  • Recommended: Developmental Biology, Human Physiology, Ethics, Calculus,Physics.
  • Test – GRE (www.gre.org)
  • Experience in a client advocacy area is desired.
  • Interviews are usually requested.

Graduate programs are usually two years in length.

Health Care Administration/Health Care Management (MHA or HSM)

The Association of University Programs in Health Administration

Administrates and manage health care systems in clinics and hospitals. Health Service Administrators are involved in day-to-day responsibilities for the institution, long-term plans and community outreach and planning. As one individual summarized the position’s responsibility “safest care for the lowest cost for the greatest number of patients.”

Undergraduate requirements (BA or BS)

  • No stated prerequisites. Applicants usually have a statistics as well as a basic accounting class.
  • Test – GRE or GMAT
  • Volunteer experience in a health care organization is useful. Demonstrated leadership is important.

Programs usually are two years in length.

Medical Illustration (MS, MA or MFA)

Association of Medical Illustrators

Professional artists who choose medicine as their subject matter use many different media to produce illustration for publications, films, exhibits, models, prosthetics, and computer programs. They work at major medical centers, private companies or in
independent studios as a free-lance artist.

Undergraduate requirements (BA or BS) varies by program

  • Art courses
  • Biology courses taken by premedical students
  • Portfolio or art work
  • Students should work with or shadow a Medical Illustrator prior to applying.

Programs are two years in length. Five accredited programs exist.

Music Therapy (BM or MM)

American Music Therapy Association

Music therapy is the use of music to address the physical, emotional, and social needs of individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Music using instrumental and vocal music strategies is used to accomplish changes that are non-musical in nature. Music therapists work in a wide range of facilities ranging from psychiatric hospitals to nursing homes and daycare facilities. Masters or Bachelors programs are available, with certification as a music therapist (MT-BC).

Undergraduate Requirements (BA or BM)

  • Music major (BA or BM)
  • Psychology
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology

Programs are two years in length.

Naturopathic Practitioner (ND)

American Association of Naturopathic Physicians

Naturopathics use alternative therapies including nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, counseling, acupuncture, physical medicine and hydrotherapy to treat disease. Most naturopaths practice in private clinics.

Undergraduate Training (BA or BS) varies by institution

  • Four courses in biology including genetics
  • General chemistry
  • Organic chemistry
  • One physics course
  • Two Psychology courses
  • Recommended courses: Biochemistry, Nutrition, Statistics and Plant Taxonomy
  • Interviews are required.

Graduate programs are four years in length.

Nursing (BA or BSN, MSN, DSN)

American Nurses Association

A wide variety of career options exist building on the BA or BSN in nursing with many advanced practice nurses roles. Nurses provide care for sick or injured individuals. Nurses administer medications, supervise other care providers, provide treatment, record symptoms and actively consult with physicians. Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, occupational health settings, schools, and many other environments. Many different paths exist. Only pathways building on a BA/BS are highlighted. Many programs and specialties exist. A few are highlighted below.

Accelerated Nursing Programs (BSN)

All Nursing Schools
Best Nursing Degree

For students who want a BSN after completing a BA or BS (in most instances). Accelerated programs for advanced practice nursing such as nurse practitioners also exist at many institutions.

Undergraduate requirements vary by program (BS or BA usually)

  • Bio 125
  • Bio 243 (some want 2 semesters)
  • Bio 231
  • General Chemistry (some schools want Organic too)
  • Nutrition
  • General Psychology (125) and Developmental Psychology
  • Intro to Sociology (Soc 121)
  • Statistics (some programs)
  • Interview is usually required.

Accelerated BSN program is usually a four quarter or three semester program (12-18 months).

Advanced Practice Nursing (Masters)

Masters in Nursing Programs

A wide variety of Advanced Practice areas will be highlighted. Accelerated graduate programs for BA/BS non-nursing graduates exist and are usually three years in length. Only the programs requiring a RN are highlighted. Most of the graduate programs require at least one year of direct patient contact as a RN. The GRE is required and usually an interview. The majority of the programs are two years in length. By 2015 many will require a doctoral level. For example, DNP for Nurse Practitioner.

1. Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Independently care for patients with the ability to diagnose and treat patients. Give physical exams, take patients’ history, and formulate a plan of care. May refer patient to a physician or other specialist when needed.

2. Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Provide prenatal care, delivery and post-natal care with interaction with a physician. They counsel mothers on nutrition exercises and good health habits. Midwives also perform gynecological exams on non-pregnant women and provide advice on birth control and family planning.

3. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse anesthetists give anesthesia with the supervision of a physician.

4. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Consult the web sites for further information.

Occupational Therapy (MOT)

American Occupational Therapy Association

Occupational therapists propose activities and therapies to obtain maximum independence for individuals who have mental, physical, emotional, or developmental problems. They help patients learn how to perform single daily living skills and to develop
work skills. Many of the interventions involve the use of the client’s hands and OTs are occasionally referred to as “hand therapists,” occupational therapists assess, treat, adapt, educate and often implement the use of assistive technology as well as prosthetic devices. Occupational therapists work in clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, extended care facilities, schools, and the patients’ home.

Undergraduate requirement (BA or BS). Courses may vary by program. Listed below are the University of Minnesota’s requirements:

  • Bio 125
  • Bio 243 (may need one additional Bio course with physiology or anatomy as component, or Biomechanics or Physiology of Exercise)
  • Statistics
  • Psychology 125, 241 and 264
  • Sociology
  • Studio Art course
  • Medical Terminology (extension, 1 credit course)
  • Computer competency
  • Recommended - Orientation to Occupational Therapy (1 credit course OT 1003, UMN Distance Education)
  • Test – GRE is required by some schools but is not required at the U of MN
  • CPR certification
  • Applicants are not required to have any practical experience, but observation, volunteer, and/or work experience hours are taken into consideration and strengthen one's application.
  • Interviews may be required but are not utilized at the U of MN. The U of M does not require letters of recommendation.

The masters program is 2.5 years (a few doctoral programs exist).

Optometry (OD)

Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry

Optometrists provide primary vision care by examining eyes and diagnosing vision problems and eye disease. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses, contact lens, vision therapy and, in some states, prescribe medications. Optometrists work as a private practitioner or in a franchise optical store.

Undergraduate requirements (usually BS or BA)

  • Bio 125, 126
  • Bio 231
  • Math 120
  • Statistics
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126
  • Chem 247
  • Chem 379, Biochemistry (no lab required)
  • Physics 124, 125
  • Psychology 125
  • English (2 courses)
  • Matriculated students in 2005 had a mean GPA of 3.38.
  • Test: OAT – A four hour computer formatted exam ($195.00) covering reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, natural science and physics. In 2005 matriculated students had an average of 324 out of 400 total points (means ranged
    from 320 to 352).
  • Exposure to optometry by shadowing or working with an optometrist is recommended for applicants.
  • Interviews are required.
  • Centralized application is utilized by most schools.

Optometry programs are four years in length. A one year clinical residency is available for graduates.

Pharmacy (Pharm.D)

American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
Excellent reference is Pfizer’s Full Preparation: the Pfizer Guide to Careers in Pharmacy (also see Doug Buessman in the Chemistry Department)

Pharmacists dispense medications that are prescribed by health care professionals. They prepare the medication advice of the physician and educate the patient concerning the dosage and side effects. They monitor the drug therapy and often are involved in research as well as regulatory agencies. Pharmacists also work with medications for animals prescribed by veterinarians. Pharmacists work in hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, and retail pharmacies.

Undergraduate Requirements (usually BA or BS) at the University of Minnesota (two campuses Duluth and Mpls/St Paul) or check
the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy's Admissions Guide

  • Bio 125, 231, and 243 (Bio 266 and Bio 247 are acceptable alternatives).
  • One advanced Biology course
  • Math 120
  • Statistics 110 or 212
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126
  • Chem 247 and 248 with lab
  • Physics 124, 125
  • Two Sociology or Behavioral Science courses ( Could include Econ 121)
  • English (G. Ed 111 and WRI)
  • Some schools require Economics 121 (some want Microeconomics too)
  • Public Speaking (Theatre 120)
  • The national GPA of accepted students was 3.43 (UMN was 3.58) in 2008. Class size was 108 at Mpls/St Paul and 60 at Duluth.
  • Test: PCAT test, $105. This test has 5 multiple choice sections (verbal, biology, reading, quantitative ability, and chemistry) and two writing sections. Composite at the U of M in 2008 was 80%.
  • Online application ($105-$130 plus $30 for each additional school. Click here for more information on specific schools and applications.
  • Exposure to the various areas of pharmacy is important. Many students work as a pharmacy technician which enhances their application. Service, leadership and communication skills are needed.
  • Interviews are required.

Pharmacy is a four year doctorate program. Another career alternative is a graduate degree in some area of pharmacology (for example a PhD in medicinal chemistry).

Physical Therapy (DPT)

American Physical Therapy Association

Physical therapists use manual, hands-on skills to guide patients through movements that promote functional improvements and increased mobility. Physical therapists perform patient evaluations, treatment, patient screening, education and consultation. Physical therapists work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation center, long-term care facilities, school systems, sports medicine, home health care and in major medical centers.

Undergraduate Requirements (BA/BS) for the University of Minnesota

  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126 (a few schools require Organic)
  • Physics 124, 125
  • Psychology (1-3 courses), 125, 241 and 264
  • Bio 125, 243 (some schools require 1-2 additional courses, 231 or 233)
  • Statistics 212 or 110
  • Theatre 120 (public speaking)
  • Medical Terminology (extension)
  • Math 120
  • Recommended Courses: Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology
  • The mean GPA at the U of Minnesota for 2006 was 3.7 (3.6 in prereqs), nationally was 3.37. The minimum GPA is 3.00.
  • Test: GRE is required (Average for UMN 2006 class was verbal 503, Quantitative 654 and Analytical 4.38)
  • Some schools require CPR certification
  • Many schools utilize an online application with a fee of $ 55.
  • Applicants must have observed physical therapists (100 plus hours) and in multiple settings (at least 3). Two letters of recommendation are required.
  • Interviews are required.

Graduate programs for DPT are three years in length and masters are 2-2.5 years. (All will be DPT by 2020). In some instances students need to apply to the graduate school and complete the online PTCAS application.

Physician’s Assistant (PA)

American Academy of Physician's Assistants
Physician Assistant Education Program

Physician Assistants are mid-level practitioners under the supervision of a physician. Physician Assistants take patient histories, perform physical examinations, and give immunizations and medications to patients. They perform simple medical procedures, order and interpret medical tests, and diagnose as well as treat medical illnesses. Physician Assistants provide patient education and preventive health care counseling. Physician Assistants are employed in clinics, hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities in primary care medicine or in a specialty such as orthopedics.

Undergraduate Requirements (most have BA or BS) at Augsburg are as follows:

  • Bio 125, 231 and 243 or 247
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126 (most require Organic and Biochemistry)
  • English
  • Psychology 125, 241
  • Speech
  • Statistics
  • Medical Terminology (Extension)
  • Recommended courses: Genetics and Immunology
  • Some programs do not accept AP credits
  • In 2006 the National GPA of accepted students was 3.24 (3.07 in science courses).
  • Test: GRE is required by some schools, it is not required by Augsburg
  • Interviews are required.
  • Clinical health care experience is required either as a volunteer or in direct patient contact as an EMT, nursing aide or other health related position. Many applicants have months of experience in health care.
  • Online application. Costs vary depending on the number of schools and the application date. Application to one school before September 1st is $120.00 and $160.00 after September 1st.

Most programs (over 67% of the 140 programs) take 2 – 3 years to complete. All will be masters (MPAS) in the future.

Podiatry (DPM)

American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
American Podiatric Medical Association

Podiatrists treat people of all ages needing foot or ankle care. Podiatrists prevent, diagnose, and treat disorders and diseases of the foot and ankle using surgery, medications and orthotic devices. Podiatrists practice in hospitals, clinics, sports medicine facilities and long-term care locations.

Undergraduate Requirements (BA/BS) Listed below are the requirements for Des Moines University

  • Bio 125 and another Bio course
  • Chem 125 (or 121/123) and 126
  • Chem 247, 248 plus lab
  • Physics 124, 125
  • English (2 courses)
  • Recommended courses: Biochemistry, Genetics, Mathematics, Psychology and Comparative Anatomy
  • At DMU the mean GPA in 2006 was 3.2 (Science 3.0). Nationally 3.34 (Science 3.21).
  • Test: Prefer the MCAT (DMU mean in 2006 was VR = 7.3, PS = 6.8, BS = 7.1). Some schools allow use of GRE or DAT.
  • Experience as a volunteer or shadowing in podiatry is desired. Usually one recommendation letter is required from a podiatrist. A mentor network is available, as is a preprofessional internship at Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine.
  • Online centralized application is available.
  • Interviews are usually required.

Podiatric programs are four years in duration.

Public Health (MSP)

Association of Schools of Public Health
An excellent reference is Pfizer’s Advancing Healthy Populations: the Pfizer Guide to Careers in Public Health.

A wide variety of careers can be attained with a public health degree. The five main areas are Environmental Health, Behavioral Sciences/Health Education, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Health Service Administration. Many programs also allow students to
concentrate their studies on International Health. Public health focuses on identifying, resolving and preventing health problems that affect communities and populations. The community is the “patient.” Public health graduates work in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, non-profit organizations, government, private industry, foundations, academic and international agencies.

Undergraduate Requirements (BA/BS)

  • Courses depend on the area of interest. Statistics is needed.
  • Test: GRE is required. Some institutions will also accept the MCAT.
  • Some programs such as Hopkins require postgraduate experience, most do not.
  • Online application is available for some schools.
  • Interviews may be required.

MPH programs are two years in length. Some PhD programs are also available.

Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Association of American Veterinary Medicine Colleges
Also contact Henry Kermott in the Biology Department

Veterinarians play a major role in the health care of pets, livestock, laboratory animals, zoo animals and animals as related to public health. Veterinarians work in food safety, sanitation, and research. Most veterinarians work in private practice, research centers, government agencies and in the food industry.

Undergraduate Requirements (BA or BS required)

  • Bio 125, 126, 231, 233
  • Chem 125 (121/123), 126
  • Chem 247/253, 248/254
  • Chemistry 379 (lab is not required)
  • Physics 124 and 125
  • Mathematics 120
  • English (two courses)
  • The mean GPA of accepted students at the U of M in 2007 was 3.52 with a combined GRE of 1170 (Verbal and Quant.).
  • Test: GRE is required
  • All schools require a significant number of hours of observation in Vet Medicine
  • Some Vet schools now require an interview
  • Online application
  • Online tips and hints to help with the application process

Veterinary programs are four years in length. DVM/MPH is a popular combination.

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