Pre-medicine is not a major; it is a program of study which prepares a student to apply to medical school. Although some medical schools require only three years of undergraduate work, the majority prefer that the entering student have a bachelor’s degree. The University of North Dakota (UND) Medical School (and most others) does not care what kind of academic major a prospective student is pursuing, as long as a particular core of coursework is achieved. Prospective university medical students are strongly urged to declare a major area of study and to pursue a degree program at the baccalaureate level. The philosophy of education, the required pre-medicine courses, and the systems of training vary among the medical schools. All recognize the desirability of a broad education, a good foundation in the natural sciences (mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics), highly developed communication skills, and a solid background in the social sciences and humanities.
Other medical schools have similar requirements but their catalogs should be consulted. It is recommended that Pre-medicine students at Dickinson State University take more than the minimum requirements.
In order to be prepared for college coursework, high school students wishing to follow a Pre-medicine track as undergraduates should take at least one year each of biology, chemistry, and physics, and two or more years of math while in high school. Contact the Department of Natural Sciences for specific curriculum.
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