Frequently Asked Questions
What majors are preferable for medical school?
The University of Arizona College of Medicine does not have an
undergraduate major preference. If a non-science major is chosen,
applicants may consider upper-division science courses to supplement
their prerequisite science courses.
What are the prerequisites for medical school?
Please refer to Prerequisites,
on this Web site, for specifics.
How many openings are there each year?
The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson campus admits
115 new students per year. The UA College of Medicine – Phoenix
in partnership with ASU will admit 48 first-year students to the
class entering in 2010. Class size at the Phoenix campus is anticipated
to expand to 120 new students per year over the next several years.
How long are my MCAT scores valid?
MCAT scores are valid for three years from the time of application.
Please refer to Prerequisites on
this Web site for specifics.
Where should I take my prerequisite courses?
It is recommended that applicants take the majority of their prerequisite
courses at a university. However, credits from any accredited institution
are accepted.
Who should my letters of recommendation be from?
Applicants are asked to submit three letters of recommendation
from individuals who know them well and can attest to their fitness
for the medical profession. Applicants who submit a composite pre-professional
committee letter from their school may submit two additional letters
of recommendation, but are not required to do so. Applicants who
have participated in clinical activities and/or academic research
are encouraged to include recommendation letters from their clinical
or community service supervisor and/or research mentors.
What type of experiences should I have?
The Admissions Committee will consider all medically related experience
(hands-on experience with direct patient contact and interaction
with physicians, nurses and other health-care professionals is
highly recommended) and research-related experiences. The Admissions Committee also will consider community service and
extracurricular activities.
What should I include in my personal statement?
It is recommended that the personal statement include information
about background and motivation for pursuing an MD degree. The
personal statement assists the Admissions Committee in understanding
what has led an applicant to apply to medical school. It is often
helpful to highlight a particular experience that has influenced
the applicant to choose the medical profession.
Where can I go for assistance if I am an undergraduate interested in the UA College of Medicine?
You can contact the following advisors for preparation as an undergraduate:
The University of Arizona
Randi Kent
Advising Specialist, University College, Pre-Health Professions Advising Center
Tel: (520) 626-7241
Email: rlkent@email.arizona.edu
Arizona State University
Phillip Scharf
Director, Health Professions Advising
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
480.965.2365 (phone)
480.965.2110 (fax)
Phillip.scharf@asu.edu
Northern Arizona University
Monica Bai
Academic Advisor
Pre-Health Professions
Tel: (928) 523-7204
Email: monica.bai@nau.edu
What dual degree programs are offered?
The MD-PHD Program is offered for students interested in doing
medical research.
For more information contact information, please contact:
T. Phillip Malan, MD, PhD
Interium Chair for the Program, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs
520/626-3867
malan@email.arizona.edu
or
Ms. Maureen Driscoll
Program Coordinator
520/626-1489
mdphd@arizona.edu
MD-PHD program Web site
The MD-MPH Dual Degree Program is offered for those students interested
in learning the essential skills to work with various communities.
For more information, please contact:
Hal Strich, MPH, Associate
Director
Tel: (520) 626-0671
Lane Johnson, MD, MPH, Director
Tel:
(520)
626-6029
MD-MPH Dual Degree Program Web site
MD-MBA Dual Degree Program:
For more information, Please contact:
College of Medicine
Tanisha N. Johnson, Director of Admissions
tanishap@email.arizona.edu
Tel: (520) 621-6214
Eller MBA
Marisa Cox, Admissions Director
mbcox@eller.arizona.edu
Tel: (520) 621-6227
MD-MBA
Dual Degree Program Web site |