What does Walsh's Pre-Medicine or Pre-Optometry program entail?
Students in these pre-professional program major in either Biology or Chemistry. Most choose Biology as their major and minor in Chemistry. Those with a strong math background may choose to major in Chemistry with a minor in Biology. Choosing to major and minor in these sciences strengthens our students' application portfolios. Advisors work with them to recommend the concentration that suits them best.
What type of career can I look forward to with a Pre-Medicine or Pre-Optometry degree?
Nearly 100% of students in Walsh's Pre-Medicine and Pre-Optometry schools attend the medical schools of their choice. Upon completion of their post-graduate programs, they go on to have successful careers as medical doctors and optometrists in private practice, group practice, hospitals and other health care facilities.
What makes Walsh's Pre-Medicine, Pre-Optometry program unique?
Students have the opportunity to gain experience with physicians and medical centers in our region.
Alumni support. Walsh graduates who are physicians act as a support network for our students, answering questions and offering insight into the day-to-day functions of a practicing physician.
In addition, Walsh provides preparation for the MCAT and beyond. Students take the standardized test for entry into medical school at the end of their junior year. Their courses and lab work prepare them for this exam, as well as the rigors of medical school training.
Pre-Med schools look for diverse individuals who also have strong academic records. Students should maintain a minimum 3.3 to 3.5 GPA and be involved in volunteer service, internships and leadership roles on campus.
Generally speaking, what Pre-Optometry/Pre-Med classes will I need to take?
Courses vary depending on the program and whether the student chooses to major in Biology or Chemistry. Some specific courses for Biology majors include:
- Microbiology
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Molecular Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
What experiential learning or internship opportunities are available?
Students in Walsh's Pre-Optometry and Pre-Med schools gain real-world experience through:
• Summer research initiatives at Walsh or other organizations in our community.
• Opportunities to take their studies abroad.
Andrea Grassbaugh - Class of 2019
Major: Biology, Pre-Medicine
I have two main passions in life: travel and medicine. Thankfully, being a Walsh University student allows me to pursue both. Although I’ve had several opportunities to shadow at hospitals in Ohio, during my sophomore year I began investigating ways I could intern at a hospital abroad.
Thomas Krainz - Class of 2018
Major: Biology, Pre-Optometry
Minors: History and Chemistry
I earned a research internship at Akron Children’s Hospital during the summer between my sophomore and junior years. That summer I conducted research with the hospital’s Medical Transport Director, neonatal intesnsivist Michael Bigham, M.D., and accumulated more than 65 hours shadowing in several other departments. I also had the opportunity to present my research at the National Collegiate Honors Conference (NCHC) in Atlanta in fall 2017. Following graduation from Walsh, I’ll attend The Ohio State University College of Optometry where I’ll pursue a doctoral degree in optometric medicine. I’m also considering obtaining a master’s degree in vision science as well.
