The previous essay in our series explored the expansive world of STEM in higher education, breaking down its subfields and taking a closer look at the field of engineering. Now we’re shifting our focus to the intersection of medicine and higher education, diving into pre-med, nursing, and public health programs. These fields are essential, exciting, and rapidly growing. Along the way, we’ll bust some common misconceptions and highlight several overlooked career paths within medicine and healthcare:
What Is Pre-Med?
Students interested in medicine—whether human or veterinary—often hear about the pre-med track but may not understand what it actually entails. Unlike a major, pre-med is more of a roadmap—a set of recommended courses (and extracurriculars) designed to prepare students for medical school admissions. It includes core science classes (biology, chemistry, biochemistry and more), lab experience, and medically relevant extracurriculars. Most importantly, it prepares students for the MCAT, the standardized test required for medical school admission.
Traditionally, pre-med students major in biology or chemistry, but today’s competitive job market has inspired many to double major, combining hard science with the humanities or social sciences. Not only does this shift allow pre-med students to define themselves as individuals amongst a sea of applicants, but it also allows them to pursue other academic interests alongside their medical aspirations. Imagine a chemistry and anthropology double major diving into medical anthropology—gaining not only a rich academic experience, but a standout edge in medical school applications. The courseload to complete a double major is substantial, so students should explore subjects that genuinely spark their curiosity and bring them joy. Additionally, high school students considering a pre-med path should check both their target colleges’ requirements and the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) guidelines for details and requirements.
Future veterinarians follow a nearly identical path to pre-med students. They also study biology, chemistry, biochemistry, etc, and admission to vet school also requires them to take either the MCAT, the GRE or the Biology GRE. Instead of thinking of pre-vet as a separate track, students interested in becoming veterinarians should ask: how can I make a pre-med track as animal-focused as possible? Majoring in biology with a concentration in animal behavior, taking zoology courses, and seeking internships at veterinary clinics are all great ways to tailor the pre-med experience to veterinary medicine.
What If I Change My Mind?
Many students we work with express a common concern: “What if I start pre-med and realize medical school isn’t for me?” That’s totally okay. Plenty of students follow the pre-med track initially and later pivot to other academic interests, sometimes still in the sciences and sometimes not. No matter their major, these students are able to leverage the rigorous pre-med training in unexpected but fascinating ways. A background in biology or biophysics can lead to careers in scientific research, biomedical engineering, public health, zoological sciences, and even fields like law or business. The critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the undeniable work ethic, gained from pre-med coursework are valuable across many disciplines.
What About Nursing?
Nursing is one of the fastest-growing medical fields, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% increase in demand by 2032. Unlike pre-med, nursing is a dedicated undergraduate major, typically resulting in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Upon graduation, nursing students are eligible to take the NCLEX exam to become Registered Nurses (RNs). A further step to advance a nursing career is to pursue a Master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) and take a board exam to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP). NPs provide comprehensive care, manage treatments, and can prescribe medications. There are also nursing careers in public health for MSNs. While you technically don’t need a BSN (or any bachelor’s degree) to become a nurse—an associate’s degree qualifies you for the NCLEX—earning a BSN affords greater career flexibility, job security, and long-term opportunities.
What Is Public Health?
The field of Public Health addresses the relationship between health, policy, and society, aiming to improve community well-being through education, research, and advocacy. Subfields include epidemiology, community health, and LGBTQ+ health. Public Health is an excellent option for students passionate about medicine but less inclined toward the intensive quantitative demands of pre-med coursework. Public Health professionals work in government agencies, non-profits, and research institutions, tackling some of the biggest health challenges facing our world today. Until recently, public health was pursued at the graduate level only (Masters in Public Health or MPH), but due to a rise in both popularity and demand, more and more universities are offering Bachelor’s degrees in public health. However, the MPH is still the industry-standard degree in the field, and is required for more advanced public health jobs.
Finding Your Path In Medicine
The college application process can feel overwhelming, especially for students considering medical careers. In addition to considering application and graduation requirements, students with an interest in medicine must understand and plan for their pre-med track. However, for students passionate about the biomedical and health sciences, the extra planning and studying is a worthwhile step towards a career that is not only rewarding, but deeply meaningful.