Pre-Med Track

Your Path to a Career in Medicine

Brooklyn College offers advising, support, and resources that will help you explore and prepare for a career in medicine.

Medical School Options

B.S.-M.D. Program with St. George’s University
Coordinated B.A.-M.D. Program with CUNY School of Medicine

 

 

 

What a Physician Does

Physicians diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance.

There are two types of physicians, with similar degrees: M.D. (Medical Doctor) and D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine).

Both use the same methods of treatment, including drugs and surgery, but D.O.s place additional emphasis on the body’s musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and holistic patient care. D.O.s are most likely to be primary care physicians, although they work in all specialties.

Typical Duties

  • Take a patient’s medical history and perform a physical exam.
  • Document and update charts and patient information to show findings and treatments.
  • Order tests and consultations for other physicians or health care staff to perform.
  • Review test results to identify abnormal findings.
  • Recommend, design, and implement a treatment plan.
  • Address concerns or answer questions that patients have about their health and well-being.
  • Help patients take care of their health by discussing topics such as proper nutrition and hygiene.

Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook

What a Pre-Medical Student Studies

  • One year of general chemistry (lecture and lab)
  • One semester of pre–organic chemistry
  • One year of organic chemistry (lecture and lab)
  • One year of biology
  • One year of physics
  • Math (precalculus or calculus)
  • One year of English composition

For more details on coursework, download the Pre-Health Professions Handbook (PDF).

What Are Medical School Degree Options

When to Apply to Medical School

Apply to medical school in spring or summer, a year before your intended start date. Complete prerequisites, take the MCAT, and gather clinical experience and recommendations beforehand. Early applications improve your chances.

How to Prepare for the MCAT

Preparing for the MCAT exam takes time and dedication.

The MCAT exam tests concepts in the natural, social, and behavioral sciences and critical analysis and reasoning skills that are essential to entering students’ success in medical school.

Visit the AAMC MCAT prep center.

What to Expect in Medical School

Medical school spans four years, split into preclinical and clinical phases. The first two years cover foundational coursework in sciences, while the final two focus on hands-on learning through specialty rotations. Students engage in patient care, preparing for residency based on clinical performance, evaluations, and exam scores. Balancing intense academics with personal well-being is essential for success.

Interested in Other Fields?

If you are considering a career in nursing, dentistry, or another role in health care, advisers in our pre-health office can help you get on the right track.

Learn More

Contact Information

Benjamin N. Stewart
Director of Pre-Health Program Advisement/Director of Coordinated B.A.-M.D. Program

2231 Boylan Hall
Brooklyn College
2900 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11210-2889
P: 718.951.4706

Brooklyn. All in.

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