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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there advisors available for students interested in health professions?

Will I have to transfer in order to complete a health professional degree?

What do I major in to be considered a Pre-Health student?

If I am interested in a Pre-health profession that doesn't require a Bachelor's degree, do I have to choose a major?

What if my major advisor doesn't know very much about the pre-health program in which I am interested?

How do I get health professions advising?

Are there advisors available for students interested in health professions?

Yes. If you are attending Colorado State and are interested in entering one of the health professions you will need to meet academic and other requirements before you can enter the professional school.  There are advisors here to help you understand these requirements. Advisors can help you with the following health professions:

Will I have to transfer in order to complete a  health professional degree?

Most likely. Colorado State only offers professional degree programs in Veterinary Medicine,  Nutrition, Occupational Therapy and Music Therapy.  See the responsible departments for details if you are interested in any of these programs.

However, many of the other health professions recommend or even require a bachelor’s degree prior to acceptance. Therefore, you will most likely complete your degree at Colorado State then apply to a professional program.

What do I major in to be considered a Pre-Health student?

Since Pre-Health professions, (Pre-medicine, Pre-Physical Therapy, etc.), are not majors at Colorado State, you will need to choose a major. Professional schools neither recommend, nor prefer a particular major.  Thus, you CAN and SHOULD choose a major because you like that area of study, not because you think that major will get you admitted to a professional school.  You do not have to select a science major, however, you will still need to complete the prerequisite coursework required by each professional school to which you intend to apply.  Keep in mind that even though professional schools don’t specify a particular major, students who choose a non-science major are advised to take science courses in tracts designed for science majors.
Being “Pre-Med,” “Pre-PT,” “Pre-OT,”……etc., is more of a state-of-mind than anything. It is a commitment and an intention to meet the requirements for admission to a professional program.
 

If I am interested in a Pre-health profession that doesn't require a Bachelor's degree, do I have to choose a major?

First, all students at Colorado State are required to have a major or be in an Open Option program.  Second, you may eventually decide that you do not want to be a dentist (for example), or you may not be admitted to a profession school. You should look at the major you choose as your alternative career path. Finally, a B.S. or B.A. gives you the option of going to graduate school.

                    
What if my major advisor doesn't know very much about the pre-health program in which I am interested?

That's okay, your Professional Health Advisor may not know much about your major. Your major advisor will help you understand the requirements for that major. The health profession advisor's role is to advise you on coursework and other requirements for the professional school. By working with your major advisor and a health professions advisor, you will know what is needed to meet both sets of requirements.

How do I get health professions advising?

Advisors are available by appointment only.  To make an appointment you may call #(970) 491-7095 or stop by the Center for Advising and Student Achievement (CASA) office, 201 Aylesworth Hall NE. If you decide to participate, you will be assigned an advisor. After that it will be your responsibility to meet with your health professions advisor at least once each semester.

Can I apply to a health professions professional school without talking to a health professions advisor?

Sure, and students do every year. However, it is to your advantage to work with a health professions advisor. They can provide counseling regarding your chosen career; they stay current with changes in professional school requirements, especially the Colorado schools; they can write letters of reference for you; and they can assist you with the process of applying and interviewing for professional schools. Pre-medical students who work closely with an advisor, for instance, are two to three times more likely to be admitted to medical school.

Success in gaining entrance to a professional school is almost entirely up to you, but your advisor can assist you in that endeavor.