Going back to school for med?

Pre-Med & Medical School Pre-Med Topics
1

<p>I graduated a few years ago from berkeley with a degree in physics (but unfortunately no chem/bio). Over the past year I've become really excited about the idea of going to med school. This means taking ~6 classes before I can take the mcat and apply. So my question is what is the best way to do this? Would taking these at a CC make my application too suspect? Are there programs out there for people like me?</p>

<p>Anyone with experience in going back to school - I could really use your advice - Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Yes, there are programs called post-bac programs designed specifically for people like you. Some of them seem to boast very good admissions rates, although of course they often screen their kids. My understanding is that they are at least sometimes affiliated with universities.</p>

3

<p>Thanks bluedevil. I just checked out the aamc's list of post-bac programs. Sadly there aren't any in my state (CO). Also, it seems like most of them are 2 full years designed to give someone who has 0 science/math the full courseload that med schools need. Seeing as I only need the bio/chem I was hoping to do a less time consuming/expensive version. </p>

<p>Would community colleges be a good idea, or are they not rigorous enough? Do real Universities allow you to enroll and just take a few classes without all the hassle of a full admission?</p>

4

<p>Okay, I found that the local U will allow me to take classes without full enrollment. Thanks for the help - no need to reply.</p>

5

<p>yes in most universities anyone can take classes as long as you pay for them. a well reputed university is clearly a better choice than a CC.</p>

6

<p>Haha, let's not bring up the CC discussion again...</p>

7

<p>It can be done. </p>

<p>I went back to school to take general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, anatomy and physics. By going to two different colleges at the same time I was able to complete this work in 15 months, although I took the MCAT before I had finished the coursework. If it appeals to you, look for intensive summer programs that compress a year's work into 9 weeks.</p>

<p>If you majored in physics, you could self study enough chemistry and biology to take the MCAT well before finishing the coursework.</p>

<p>Just be sure you really want to be a doctor (12 months of slogging, 4 years of medical school with negative income, three or more years of residency with minimal income, entering practice in 2015 -- 35 years after the golden age of private practice).</p>