Q: Can Norwich University prepare me for medical school?
A: Absolutely. Norwich students have been accepted to top medical schools throughout the United States. Our rigorous preparatory coursework, research, and mentorship opportunities prepare exceptional candidates for a broad range of professional programs.
Q: Where is the Pre-Med major at Norwich University?
A: Pre-Med is more a track than a major. We have the foundational “BCPM” courses to help you down this track — biology, chemistry (general and organic), physics and mathematics — along with common complements — social sciences like psychology and sociology all offered in our small-class, high-touch environment.
Medical schools increasingly want well-rounded students devoted to their genuine interests. As Dr. Nathaniel Morris wrote in Scientific American, “Students who study the injustices of socioeconomic disparities, the intricacies of music theory or the beauty of poetry can also make great physicians.”
Because there is no “best” or “right” major for medical school, we encourage you to follow your passions. Our Pre-Health, Pre-Med adviser, Dr. Ethan Guth, can help you chart the path you need to get to medical school or postgraduate training, helping you choose the courses to move you toward a career as an M.D. (doctor of medicine) D.O. (doctor of osteopathic medicine), dentist or veterinarian.
Q: What should I major in?
You should major in a field that authentically interests you. Medical schools are looking for well-rounded applicants with a passion for learning and a strong academic background in science. The following majors provide most of the prerequisite coursework as part of their standard curriculum and are popular with students who are interested in medical school:
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Health Science
- Neuroscience
Q: Does Norwich have extracurriculars to help my pursuit of medical school or postgrad medical training?
A: Many. Our Center for Civic Engagement can connect with Norwich University Emergency Medical Services, a division of Northfield Ambulance. NU EMS helps provide medical coverage on the ambulance, the Crash Rescue unit, and the Off-Road Rescue unit which provides medical standby details for student clubs, ROTC detachments and the Corps of Cadets.
Medical professionals promise to serve others; Norwich shares this same commitment to service: it is ingrained in everything we do and who we aspire to be. There are many activities at Norwich that can help you gain the skills and experiences that will help you succeed not only in medical school or postgrad medical training, but in a healthcare career. The Center for Civic Engagement can help you join Norwich University Emergency Medical Services (NU EMS), a division of Northfield Ambulance. This student-led organization provides medical coverage for ambulance services, the Crash Rescue unit, and the Off-Road Rescue unit. These units routinely support both campus and community organizations, including other student clubs, ROTC units and training events, and the Corps of Cadets. In addition to NU EMS, the Center for Civic Engagement offers numerous other healthcare-related volunteer opportunities, including at Mayo Healthcare, an assisted living center; the Veterans’ Place, a transitional home for U.S. armed forces veterans; the Northfield Police Department; and the Boys & Girls Club.
Q: Are there research opportunities to prepare me?
A: Yes. Our Office of Academic Research lets you connect one-on-one with research professors, many in science. Recently, students have researched cancer treatments and early detection signals for the novel coronavirus.
Q: I want to go to medical school and I’m interested in Norwich University but I’m confused as to what to do next. Is there someone who can help me?
Yes! Norwich University has a dedicated Pre-Med / Pre-Health Professions adviser who can help you understand the process and answer your questions:
Ethan Guth, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Director of Pre-Health Advising
Norwich University
Northfield, VT 0563
802-485-2475
eguth@norwich.edu
