Harvard pre-med primarily refers to the Premedical Program offered by the Harvard Extension School, a specialized program designed for individuals aspiring to enter medical school or physician assistant (PA) programs. It provides the necessary prerequisite science coursework and advising for a successful application to these competitive professional health programs.
Understanding the Harvard Extension School Premedical Program
This program at the Harvard Extension School is a structured pathway for students who may not have completed the necessary science prerequisites during their undergraduate studies, or who are looking for a comprehensive curriculum and advising to strengthen their applications. It's distinct from being a pre-med student at Harvard College, which involves undergraduate advising for current Harvard students.
The Premedical Program is highly tailored to individual needs and career goals, offering two distinct tracks:
Program Tracks
| Track Name | Primary Goal | Target Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Doctoral | Prepares students for entry into medical, dental, veterinary, or optometry schools. | M.D., D.O., D.D.S., D.V.M., O.D. programs |
| Pre-Physician Assistant | Focuses on meeting the prerequisites for physician assistant master's programs. | M.M.S. (Master of Medical Science - PA), M.S. (PA) programs |
Customized Curriculum Development
A core feature of the Harvard Extension School Premedical Program is its personalized approach to curriculum planning. Upon admission, advisors work closely with each student to create a customized course curriculum. This plan is meticulously developed based on:
- Your Chosen Curriculum Track: Whether you're aiming for medical school or a physician assistant program, the coursework is aligned with the specific prerequisites for those fields.
- Assessment of Your Undergraduate Degree: The program takes into account the courses you've already completed during your undergraduate studies, ensuring you only take the necessary additional classes to fulfill the pre-medical requirements. This avoids redundancy and optimizes your time and resources.
Beyond Coursework
While rigorous science coursework (such as biology, chemistry, physics, and organic chemistry) forms the foundation, a successful pre-med journey also involves:
- Standardized Exams: Preparation for exams like the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) for medical school or the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for some PA programs.
- Clinical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience in healthcare settings, which demonstrates commitment and provides valuable insights into the profession.
- Research Opportunities: Engaging in scientific research to develop critical thinking and analytical skills.
- Volunteering and Leadership: Participating in extracurricular activities that showcase empathy, teamwork, and leadership potential.
- Application Process: Receiving guidance through the complex application process, including crafting personal statements and preparing for interviews.
The Harvard Extension School's Premedical Program aims to provide a structured and supportive environment for post-baccalaureate students to build a strong academic foundation and competitive application for their desired health professions.
