Sample Plans for Completing Pre-Medical and Pre-Dental Science Pre-Requisites

Below are some sample schedules for completing pre-requisite science courses.  You should be aware that there is no single schedule that is right for everyone and you should plan your schedule in consultation with your dean and your faculty adviser.  Nonetheless, here are some examples of when to take your pre-requisites.

Traditional
Typically for science majors who plan on applying to medical/dental school at the end of junior year.  This list includes only the pre-requisite courses.  It is expected that upper division electives would be taken as well.

Early Assurance Program
The Early Assurance Program (EAP) is an opportunity for students who have excelled in their course work and wish to attend Georgetown’s School of Medicine (SOM) to receive assurance of admission at the end of sophomore year. To be eligible for the EAP, students must be in their fourth semester at Georgetown University and have completed four of the five science pre-med courses by the end of their sophomore year. Organic Chemistry must be one of the four completed courses.  Please see the link to the EAP program in the Undergraduates section for more information.  Transfer students are not eligible for the EAP.

Four Year Option – doing full Junior Year Abroad
This is a growing option for medical/dental school applicants.  In this scenario, students apply to medical/dental school in the spring of their senior year.  This necessitates taking a gap year.  While this will allow a student to study abroad, this option is becoming popular as well for students who do not go abroad.  This gives students more time to complete the requirements with ample time to perform other activities such as research, clinical experiences or pursing other interests.  This option will also allow the applicant to demonstrate academic improvement in the event of poor grades during their first year. Finally, the addition of a gap year adds greater flexibility to include experiences that will serve to enhance their application.

Four Year Option – Non-science Major
This is similar to the previous option and allows a student to complete the pre-requisites at a more relaxed pace.

It is important to understand that these are simply examples of schedules. Each student has unique circumstances and desires that need to be considered when planning a schedule. One of the benefits of being at Georgetown is that you have several advisers to consult who will help you choose the best strategy. It is important that you utilize these resources when developing your academic plan.

Missing from these sample schedules are math and English courses. Many students come to Georgetown with AP credit for these. It is generally recommended that you take at least one course of each while at Georgetown. You should plan to complete these requirements by the time you actually apply to medical/dental school. In addition, remember that Calculus I (MATH 1350) is a co-requisite for Principles of Physics I (PHYS 2051).