<p>I know that a lot of science majors would say that Biochemistry is a much more difficult major than Biology and by the looks of the requirements needed, at least for NYU, the classes for Biochem seem to lean a lot more toward the chemistry side of things (obviously) and thus much more math is involved. This worries me a bit because I read somewhere on the course description that even up to Calc III is recommended for classes that need to be taken during the 4th year. I took Calc AB during my senior year and I must say it was pretty challenging and I have heard horrifying stories about Calc II as well. I just don't want to be struggling with the mathematical aspect of the Biochemistry major requirements and then not be able to enjoy or understand the material for my benefit and put it to good use in the future. At the same time, should I be concerned/worried about possibly choosing the "safer" major that is Biology, especially since I plan to go pre-med as an undergrad and hope to apply to med school? After looking at some of the Bio courses on the website, they do seem varied and practical to an aspiring doctor, but Biochem isn't as popular and I guess harder work/dedication is put into it (if that makes sense). Thoughts anyone?</p>
<p>Medical schools don’t really care about your major; you can major in whatever you want. What matters is your GPA and MCAT score. So it makes sense to major in whatever you’re better at. At NYU, most pre-health students aren’t even science majors. Psychology is actually the most popular major with pre-meds in CAS. </p>
<p>I’m a biochemistry major and I’ve taken classes in both departments. The biochem major is very similar to the chemistry major, and it is part of the chemistry department. </p>
<p>If you’re bad at math, you will definitely struggle. However, don’t think for a second that the biology major at NYU is easy; some of the classes are graded harshly. The classes are also a lot larger and depersonalized compared to Biochem.</p>
<p>Both majors are equally good for medical school. Most biology majors take biochemistry in their junior or senior year anyway, so you will be exposed to the subject.</p>
<p>My advice is, don’t panic about choosing a major yet. Wait until you’ve taken chemistry, biology, and calculus classes freshmen year. See how you do in those, and then choose. Most people end up changing their major a few times. :)</p>
<p>Thank you so much! Yes, you’re totally right. I shouldn’t rush into choosing between the two majors this early on in the game. Hopefully, I won’t be too overwhelmed by the courses I’m taking this fall and I can do well enough to have an idea about whether or not I will be able to handle everything.</p>