There is often a lot of misinterpretation around whether “pre-med” is a real major available in the college course catalogue. To explain it in the simplest way, a pre-med is not really a major. It is more akin to a curriculum or track.

In other words, the pre-med track is a series of core coursework that must be taken to meet the requirements for entrance to a medical school. So, if pre-med is not a major, what should pre-med students major in? Read on to know more.

How to Choose the Best Pre-Med Major?

As an aspiring medical student, choosing pre-med courses may seem challenging. We assure you that following these five steps will help you choose your ideal major.

  • Pursue your passion

We cannot emphasize enough that you must choose a major that complements your character and interests. Medical school advisors often spot unique and interesting candidates who can make their student body more diversified and well-rounded. Biology, Neuroscience, and Physiology are just a handful of the many life science degrees you can choose to pursue

Consider exploring your other interests, even if they may lead you down an unconventional career route.

  • Complete your pre-med requirements

Most medical schools require you to complete one year or one semester of biology, English, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, or biochemistry.

Taking these classes early on in college will also help you prepare for the MCAT. Many scientific requirements will also satisfy your major’s requirements if you opt for biological sciences. Consult your school counsellor for a list of classes that will satisfy the prerequisites for medical school if you are confused about and wondering ‘what major should I choose for pre-med?’ 

Make sure to verify the prerequisite courses for medical school applicants at the schools you are already interested in as soon as possible.

  • Consider a second major or minor

Explore new interests and strengthen your academic application by choosing a second major. You will have a wider range of experiences to showcase on your application, demonstrating to the admissions panel that you can handle a heavy workload.

If choosing a second major is not possible without negatively affecting your grades, consider a minor. Additionally, it may strengthen your application and help you stand out as a candidate. Even if they do not fit the stereotype of a pre-med student, pursue your other academic interests because medical school admissions committees value applicants who stand out from the crowd.

  • Use decision-making techniques

If decision-making seems challenging, utilising certain techniques will enable you to choose your pre-med major confidently.

Making wise decisions requires effort, research, and introspection. One of the many significant choices you will have to make on your path to becoming a doctor is selecting your pre-med major.

  • Believe in the process

Choosing a major at the onset of college can be daunting. However, this is a journey of self-discovery as you take your time and deeply consider your options to choose a major you genuinely enjoy and are passionate about.

Use your first few semesters to get your medical school prerequisites as listed above out of the way, and do not be afraid to explore various courses to determine what you like and dislike. However, ensure your major is decided by the end of your sophomore year.

What Are the Best Pre-Med Majors in Medical School?

You have access to all of your school’s major field of study possibilities, at least in theory. Nevertheless, most pre-med students choose from a relatively small pool of majors when they think about what is the best major for pre-med? Some of the most sought-after majors that you, too, can choose from are:

  • Biological Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Math and Statistics
  • Social Sciences
  • Humanities

To conclude, you must choose your major based on these considerations. Do not feel compelled to select a major only because you believe it will ‘look good’ on your application to medical school. Your choice of major does not really matter. In the end, what matters most is how you use your major to demonstrate your competence while applying to medical school.