Students who wish to prepare for health science professions — dentistry, medicine (M.D. or D.O.), optometry, physician assistant, nursing/nurse practitioner, veterinary medicine — may do so at Ithaca College in a variety of ways. No specific major is required to prepare for these professions, but students must complete several semesters of coursework in biology, general or inorganic chemistry, and/or organic chemistry. Coursework in anatomy and physiology, physics, and microbiology is also required for certain professions. Students should also demonstrate competency in mathematics and statistics, and basic knowledge in biochemistry, psychology, and sociology for required entrance exams such as the MCAT.

Most professional schools also expect coursework in English and/or writing and the social sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology). To enhance competitiveness, students are encouraged to pursue advanced coursework in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry.

Students interested in healthcare careers should inform their academic advisor, contact the chairperson of the Health Professions Advisory Committee, and research prerequisite requirements as early as possible in their academic career. These steps will ensure that all academic requirements are met by the time the student applies for professional schools (typically after their junior or senior years).