<p>Okay, well I am pretty sure I want to become either a veterinarian or a doctor(Emergency Room Physician or Orthopedic Surgeon). But my question is: could I major in Nursing and become a registered nurse but then still go to Medical/Veterinary School? Or would these schools prefer that I go into Pre-Med/Pre-Vet?</p>
<p>That’s an interesting question. I can’t say that I know the answer. I’d talk to the pre-health professions advisor at your UG (or if still in high school, the colleges you’re considering). One question that people will ask is why, if you want to be a doctor, would you study to become a nurse? While both in health professions, I get the impression that there are sigificant differences between the fields. Might be worth talking to some doctors and nurses and finding out what those differences are.</p>
<p>Thank you for the answer! I see what you’re saying-I guess I should talk to my guidance counselor. Also, I am currently in a Health and Bioscience class that allows us to shadow either nurses or doctors while earning some college credit(in high school). At the end of the year we take the CNA(Certified Nurses Assistant) test and I feel like these are all stepping stones to reach my ultimate goal. I just hope colleges will understand my goal the way I do.</p>
<p>There are several required classes that medical schools require in the areas of biology, chemistry, physics, etc. Outside of that, you can major in anything. (In fact, “pre-med” is not a major.) If you can get all of your nursing classes and pre-med classes done (there will certainly be some overlap) as well as whatever else is required to graduate from your particular school, then you can absolutely become a registered nurse and go on to medical school. You might also want to work as a nurse for a few years–many people do not go straight to med school. And if you haven’t finished your pre-med requirements when you graduate, you can take additional classes after earning your degree to get all your requirements done. </p>
<p>I know someone who graduated with a business degree and, after a few years, decided what she really wanted to be was a vet. She took classes at several local colleges that were required for veterinary schools. Now she is a Senior at a very good veterinary school.</p>
<p>You will probably find that although you can get some of your prereqs completed, it is not easy to get all requirements in 4 years with a nursing degree. You could also work in nursing and then go back to school to be a physician’s assistant, nurse anesthesist or nurse practicioner-all high income and satisfying medical careers.</p>