In making decisions about admissions, MD and DO schools consider a range of factors that may vary from one school to another. All prerequisite courses need to be completed with a grade of C or higher. Average GPA of successful applicants from St. Olaf to medical school is 3.8, with an average science GPA of 3.62.
A video to provide an overview of considerations for first year registration for pre-health students.
Typical First-Year Schedule
Fall
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- World Language
- General Chemistry according to placement (CHEM 122 or CHEM 125)
- MATH 119 (offered Fall only)/120/126/128 or See Below
MATH 120 can be taken in Fall, Interim, or Spring. MATH 119 is only offered in Fall.
january term
- MATH 120 or OLE Core/Elective
Spring
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- World Language
- General Chemistry (CHEM 126)
- MATH 120/126 or See Below
Additional Information
The following timeline is an example of how you might wish to schedule your prerequisite courses. Timing of these courses may change due to major requirements, study abroad experiences, cohort coursework such as Enduring Questions, timing of the MCAT/application, and admissions guidelines at Podiatry schools. In addition to these courses, each student will fit in any classes required by their major. All students are strongly encouraged to meet with Professor Crisp to plan pre-med courses. All students must also consult with their advisors regarding course selection.
Year 1: General Chemistry, MATH 119 or 120, PSYCH 125 or SOAN course, BIO 150 (or year 2).
*Most medical schools require a year of college math, typically a semester of calculus and a semester of statistics. Some schools are particular about a full year of college-level calculus. Statistics I (STAT 172) need not be taken during your first year. Psych 125 or SOAN 121 are excellent options for this semester.
CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS COURSEWORK
- Not applicable.
Placement
- Not applicable.
Informational Events
Nothing available at this time.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Professor of Biology, Chair of the Health Professions Committee – Kevin Crisp (crisp@stolaf.edu)