Medical schools value the breadth in educational programs offered by liberal arts colleges; both coursework in the humanities and social sciences and nonacademic factors are important considerations for admission. Students should choose majors according to their academic interests, while including the following courses to fulfill the admission requirements of most medical schools:

Some programs may require biochemistry or additional biology, and most programs recommend psychology and social science coursework. Students should be acquainted with the specific admission and state residency requirements of the schools to which they apply. Psychology and social science coursework may be beneficial preparation for the revised Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) as of February 2015.

Students considering professional school are strongly encouraged to consult with health professions advisers and the Center for Life Beyond Reed as early as possible. An early start on the advising process will help preprofessional students capitalize on their time prior to the application process by connecting them with informational seminars, volunteer activities, and the tools needed for applying to and interviewing with a variety of programs. In addition to offering advising, the center maintains a library of resources essential to the medical school planning process. Information on important timelines, health care internship information, insight into letters of evaluation, adviser contact information, and useful web links can be found at web.reed.edu (search the term “premed”).