Pre-Med - What 2 major in?

Question

I am going to major in in science with a pre-med concentration. I wanted to know from the pro's if i should major in Biology Chemistry or Biochemistry. Which one will prepare me better for the MCAT?

Part 2..... I heard rumors that people really dont have to major in science to become a doc (but still need the standard requirements) and that people that dont majoring in science stand out better to Mschool. I want to maximize my chances and i need advice. I really dont want to set myself up for somthing i cant handle, so please give me your best answer and opinion.

Answer 1

Study what interests you most.  You'll get better grades when you are immersed in what you love.

But I do recommend a course in Biochem sometime before med school.  It's a lot to memorize if you've not seen it before.

Good luck!

Answer 2

By no means do you have to be a science major...

Most medical schools require 2 years of chemistry including 1 year of organic chemistry, 1 year of physics, 1 year of biology, and 1 year of english.

Additionally, many medical school encourage, but do nto require additional course work in biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, comparative anatomy and statistics.

Medical schools general do not care what your major is so long as you have covered the required course work above and finished a bachelors degree prior to matriculation.

Also check with the individual medical schools to which you intend to apply to be sure that you have covered their individual requirements.

Answer 3

Biochem will prepare you best for the MCAT.

It's true that non-scientists can get into med school, but the fact is that they would have to take a bunch of classes that fit into the medical field (physiology, biology with lab, etc.) in order to qualify for applications.  In addition, they would have to study the chem, physics, o-chem, and biology for the MCAT.  So, if you aim is med school, the best thing to do is to choose a major that will do that for you.  After that, get good grades, do well on the MCAT, and get some kind of medical experience (shadowing, internship, volunteer, etc.) to put on you application.  They aren't looking exclusively for the English Lit majors who had a change of heart, they are looking for the people who think scientifically, and therefore will be able to apply science to their work to figure sicknesses out.

Answer 4

The natural sciences, biology, chemistry or biochemistry are all strong foundations for med school!

However if specialized medicine is your goal, you could also lay the groundwork by majoring in a subject close to the field of your choise (i.e. major in psychology if your goal is to become a psychiatrist)