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Admissions

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