Transfer Student

Pre-Med & Medical School Pre-Med Topics
1

Hello,
I’m currently an undergraduate Pre-Med student in the Biological Sciences attending Fullerton College soon planning to transfer to either UC Santa Barbara using TAG or UC Irvine as a Biochemistry major. The minimum requirements for UC Santa Barbara are as follows:
(1) One year sequence of General Chemistry with laboratory, with no individual
grade less than “C”;
(2) Complete sequence (2-3 terms) of major-applicable General Biology with
laboratory, with no individual grade less than “C”; and
(3) A cumulative GPA of 2.7 or better in the required courses listed above.

UC Irvine Minimum Requirments:

  • one year of biology courses equivalent to UCI’s BIO SCI 93 & BIO SCI 94,
  • one year of general chemistry with laboratory, and
  • one year of organic chemistry with laboratory

However, as a Pre-Med student I’ve heard that medical school wont like the idea of taking courses such as Organic chemistry at a community college. I can just go to UC Santa Barbara, buts a 2 hour drive from my house and UC Irivine being closer, I believe i would save lots of money still being under my parents roof.

So will medical school look badly upon it being taken at a community college, If im using it to transfer to UC Irvine?

2

Go ahead and take your OChem at your CC and use it to transfer to your preferred program. Most CA med schools know about TAG requirements.

Besides, you’ll still be taking upper level chemistry (biochem) at your 4 year college. Be sure to do well in all your upper level sciences at your 4 year college to confirm in the minds of adcomms that any good grades you earn at your CC aren’t flukes.

3

Fullerton College is one of the most respected CC’s in Calif. I wouldn’t worry about taking the class there. You will still take upper division classes at your future UC, and that will confirm your academic strengths.

4

Thanks a lot to you both! I appreciate the input you gave me!