Preparation for a Career in Medicine
A Guide for Students
2010
By Dr. Ted Johnson
Chair, Health Professions Committee
Edited by Natalie Davis '12
Health Professions Committee Coordinator, Center for Experiential Learning
Preparation for a Career in Medicine
Health Professions Committee
Considering a Career in Medicine
Advising
Successful Applicants
"Nuts and Bolts" of the Premedical Journey
Time Table
Course of Study
Choosing a Major
Student Myths About Medical School Admissions
Course Requirements for Medical School
Course Planning and Academic Loads
Chemistry Major
Biology Major
Other Majors
Biomedical Studies Concentration
Life Beyond the Courses
Knowledge of the Health Care System
Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)
Application to Medical School
Selection Criteria
Factors the University of Iowa Committee Considers
Medical School: Which one suits the applicant?
Application Process
Acceptance or Non-acceptance
10 Common Mistakes
Variations: Other Careers in the Medical Arena
Special MD Programs
Osteopathic Medicine
Dental (DDS)
I. The Decision to Pursue Medicine
- Preparation for a Career in Medicine
- Considering a Career in Medicine
- Nuts and Bolts of the Premedical Journey
- A Philosophical Approach
II. Planning Your Undergraduate Degree
- Advising
- Course of Study
- Choosing a Major
- Course Requirements for Medical School
- Course Planning & Academic Loads
- Sample Schedules for Individual Majors
- Life Beyond the Courses
III. The MCAT
IV. Applying to Medical School
- Medical Schools – Which One Fits the Applicant?
- Questions for Students who are Considering Attending an International Medical School
- Application Process
- Timetable for Premedical Students
- Selection Criteria
- Advice on Medical School Admissions
- Admission Statistics
- Personal Statement
- Recommendation Letters (outside HPC)
- The Interview
- Tips on Medical School Interviewing
- Knowledge of the Healthcare System
- Acceptance or Non-acceptance
V. Variations: Other Careers in the Medical Arena
- Variations: Other Careers in the Medical Arena
- Special MD Programs
- Osteopathic Medicine
- Dentistry
- Other Occupations in the Health Professions, with Requirements
- Online Resources
Want a paper copy of the handbook? Go here for a download.
For more information, please see the websites of St. Olaf's Biomedical Studies Program or the Center for Experiential Learning.
This manual was revised in December 2008; all information and links were correct as of that date. If you find dead links or other errors, please contact Jean Porterfield.

