Department of Natural and Life Sciences

Important Information for Professional and Graduate Programs

Even if you plan to continue your education beyond an undergraduate degree, you have to start somewhere. Our undergraduate programs in science set you up for success in many graduate and professional programs. If you’re planning to continue to one of these programs, you’ve got to have all the information to ensure you’re prepared. We’ve compiled a list of facts and links to get you started on the right path. Read on to learn more.

MCAT – Medical College Admission Test

Required by almost all medical schools, the MCAT tests students for skills in physical sciences, verbal reasoning, biological sciences, critical analysis, and reasoning. Most students will take this exam during the spring semester of their junior year in college, but preparation should begin as early as the summer after your sophomore year. Learn more about the exam by visiting the Association of American Medical Colleges website.

AMCAS – American Medical College Application Service

This application service is a great tool for those students applying to medical school. The AMCAS helps student submit one application that will then be sent to multiple schools. Many medical schools will then send the student supplemental application materials to complete. It’s important to note that not all schools use the AMCAS, like many schools in Texas. They instead use the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS). Individual medical schools set application deadlines, so be sure you check each one to ensure you don’t miss any dates.

Additional Helpful Links for Pre-Med and Pre-Professional Students

General Medical Sites

• The American Medical Association
• The Association of American Medical Colleges
• The Road to Becoming a Doctor

Specialized Medical Sites

• The American Dental Education Association
• The American Dental Association
• The American Public Health Association
• The Association of Schools of Public Health
• The American Osteopathic Association
• The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine
• The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
• The American Academy of Optometry

Preparatory Sites for Placement Exams

MCAT: Medical College Admission Test

• The Official MCAT Web Site
• Kaplan Preparatory Courses

DAT: Dental Admission Test

• ScholarWare’s DAT Computer Sample Tests and Guide

PCAT: Pharmacy College Admission Test

• ScholarWare’s PCAT Computer Sample Tests and Guide

OAT: Optometry Admission Test

• ScholarWare’s OAT Computer Sample Tests and Guide
• Summer undergraduate research programs