FAQ's

Now that I have made it to Rowan, what do I need to be doing?

Congratulations on your matriculation! Now that you have begun your college career, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you need to decide which major is right for you. If your desired major is one of the sciences, then you probably will be on track for the math you need. If you have not decided on a major, it is wise to add General Chemistry I to your first semester courses. The Biology program begins with a four-semester sequence of required courses. Therefore you should enroll in Biology 1: Diversity, Evolution, and Adaptation, and Biology 2: Concepts in Genetics, if you have any potential interest in Biology as your major.

Recommended Freshman Courses for Health Professions Students:

• Chemistry I
• Calculus I or Pre-Calculus
• Biology 1 and Biology 2 (if you potentially want to major in biology)

What major is best for a student interested in the health fields?

The best major for you depends largely on the schools you wish to attend after Rowan University. Many students prefer to major in one of the sciences due to the large number of science courses they feel they need to perform well on admissions exams. Medical schools typically have a list of prerequisite courses, but do not specify a preferred major.

• 2 semesters of Biology with lab
• 2 semesters of General Chemistry with lab
• 2 semesters of Organic Chemistry with lab
• 2 semesters of Physics with lab
• 2 semesters of Composition/English
  
  *note: These are typical prerequisites. Your chosen institution may vary from this list. Many medical schools recommend Biochemistry with lab, and some require it.

In fact, medical schools value disparate experiences and view points – so pick a challenging major that you will enjoy! Other types of schools may also have specific requirements that will affect your choice of a major. If you need to meet with the health professions advisor to determine which major is best for you, click here to arrange for an appointment. Instead of trying to declare the “correct” major, it is best to choose a major that suits your talents and interests – your college performance and satisfaction will reflect it.

For example, Rowan has had successful applicants to medical and health professions schools in these majors:

• Biology
• Biochemistry
• Engineering
• Health and Exercise Science
• Music
• Psychology

Aside from a strong academic background, what else will I need to do to be a good candidate for medical/dental/veterinary/allied health schools?

Establishing a record of extracurricular activities is essential. You must gain experience in your chosen field as a volunteer, intern, or observer. Rowan can serve as a good resource for you – especially when you get to know your fellow students. Join the Health Professions Society to benefit from their experiences and contacts. Aside from patient-contact experience, you should also find ways to keep yourself active in the community – either on or off campus. Join teams, volunteer organizations, or other forms of employment. You will need to show that you can handle responsibility, and that you care about the world around you. Work with your supervisors for a sufficient time frame to let them know you well. The type of activity you choose is a personal decision, and it should be something genuinely important to you. Remember that schools want well-rounded students with real experiences, so pick something to which you can be dedicated. Often the best way to find a volunteer position is to ask someone in the field (your own doctor, for example). Also, work with the Health Professions Advisor to locate opportunities.

*Note for students interested in Physical Therapy and Occupation Therapy: Some schools require up to 1000 hours of patient contact in the field. This requirement may mean that you need to plan to work or volunteer for the entire summer each year, or plan to work in the field after graduation before applying. Do not get caught off guard by the magnitude of this commitment!

Please look at these links for more information about each field.

What kind of timeline should I follow to prepare for the application year?

Click here to see a recommended timeline for a four-year college experience. This timeline describes the route to medical school applications, but it can be generalized to many types of programs.

What is an affiliation with a health professions school?

Rowan University has maintained official relationships with many institutions. These relationships provide excellent opportunities for Rowan students to gain admittance to programs through two methods.

• The “3-4 programs” are special agreements for students in their Junior year at Rowan. Students must have eligible GPAs, test scores and other requirements as specified by the individual school. Accepted students then bypass their senior year and go to medical (dental) school. Depending on the program, a B.S. is awarded after the first year, as well.
• The “early acceptance programs” (EAPs) allow sophomores to apply. Students accepted must maintain eligible GPAs and other requirements as specified by the medical school, and they are committed to that medical school. MCAT may or may not be required. Students complete their B.S. at Rowan.

Our list of affiliated schools can be seen here.