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 the College of Medicine website under Prerequisites for specifics.
How many openings are there each year?
The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson Campus admits 110 new students per year. The University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix Campus will admit 24 new students for entering 2007 class. Class size at the Phoenix Campus is anticipated to expand to 150 new students per year over the next several years.
How long are my MCAT scores valid?
MCAT scores are valid for 3 years from the time of application. Beginning in January 2007, there will be 22 computer-based opportunities to take the MCAT. Please refer to the College of Medicine website under Prerequisites 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?
Letters of recommendation should be written by those individuals that know the applicant well. Letters should be consistent with the applicant’s direction, motivation, and goals for medical school.
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. An applicant should have experience in their area of professional interest. The Admissions Committee also will consider community service and extra-curricular 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 M.D. degree. The personal statement is useful to the Admissions Committee in assisting them in understand what has brought an applicant to the point of applying to medical school. It is often helpful to highlight a particular experience which led 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
520.626.7241
rlkent@email.arizona.edu
Arizona State University
Maxine Proctor
Director of Academic Services
Pre-Health Professions Program
480.727.6277
maxine.proctor@asu.edu
Cheri M. Peterson
Academic Advisor
Pre-Health Professions Program
480.965.2365
cheri.peterson@asu.edu
Northern Arizona University
Monica Bai
Academic Advisor
Pre-Health Professions
928.523.7204
monica.bai@nau.edu
What dual degree programs are offered?
There is the MD-PHD Program for students interested in doing medical research.
For more information contact information, please contact:
Dr. Raymond Nagle, Chair
Maureen Driscoll, Program Coordinator
 MD-PHD program Web site
We also offer the MD-MPH Dual Degree Program for those students interested in learning the essential skills to work with various communities.
For more information, please contact:
Hal Strich, Associate Director
Lane Johnson, Director
MD-MPH Dual Degree Program Web site
The MD-MBA Dual Degree Program is currently being formatted. |
