Can you major in computer science and still have med school as an option?

luvnikki4ever · 10-03-2012, 02:07 PM

I am currently a freshman at UC Riverside, majoring in computer science. I've never had any computer science experience. My main motivation for majoring in this is: a) my dad works in the field, and recommended it to me heavily, b) I know a lot of people who just graduated with the degree and have found good, high paying jobs. So far I really can't tell whether I like computer science or not, since my classes just started. I always have had med school in the back of my mind though, but I don't really want to major in biology or any other similar subject because there is not "safety net" for those majors (meaning the only route there is med school, and what if I don't get in, etc etc.) Although, I do love bio and other science, but still I'd like to have a viable career path. So, how would I keep my med school options open? Do I take the prereqs over summer at another UC or community college? Has anyone successfully majored in comp. sci. and ended up going to med school?

NeoDymium · 10-03-2012, 03:33 PM

You can major in whatever you want for med school, as long as you complete the core coursework and meet the 3 (implicit) admission requirements:
1. High GPA
2. High MCAT Scores
3. Clinical experience

However, med school is not the greatest of ideas and it's not just something you can apply to. It has to be your primary focus. As in, you focus on nothing but your med school admission requirements.

eyemgh · 10-04-2012, 05:28 PM

You will need to check the schools you are going to apply to and review their prerequisites for admission. They may require some things you might not take as an engineer or CS major like psychology, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, etc.

M

gettinin · 10-04-2012, 06:09 PM

Contact the Health Professions Advising Center at your school. Health Professions Advising Center: Frequently Asked Questions

Additionally, keep in mind that if you don't have room in your schedule for the pre-med requirements, you can enter a post-bachelor program after college to get what you need. Many people take time off between undergrad and med school anyway. Good luck.