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Start Your Career in Health Care Here

Edgewood College is proud to offer students a variety of pathways to health-related careers through both the School of Arts and Science and the Henry Predolin School of Nursing, Business, Education, and Health Sciences. Aligned with our mission to educate students for meaningful personal and professional lives, these pathways guide students in selecting a degree program that provides the necessary prerequisites and hands-on experiences to prepare for a professional career in health care. The pre-health pathway is not a bachelor’s degree or academic major, but rather, it parallels the major while infusing career-focused programing that helps students gain the skills and experiences needed for advanced study or direct entry into health professions.

Navigating Your Pathway

Choosing a pre-health pathway at Edgewood College involves several key steps to ensure students are well-prepared for a career in health care.

Step 1: Meet Your Advisor

All students interested in health-related careers will meet with a dedicated pre-health advisor. The advisor will help you explore your interests, guide you through the various pre-health pathways, and suggest the degree programs and courses that best align with your career goals.

Step 2: Choose Your Major(s)

Students can choose any major, but the prerequisite coursework must be included. Most students choose a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Chemistry, Neuroscience, or Health Science because these programs often align with required prerequisites for various health professions. This decision is typically made early, usually within the first year, as it guides the trajectory of the academic path. However, changing majors later is still possible.

Step 3: Plan Your Prerequisite Coursework

As students pursue their degree, they will simultaneously complete the required pre-health coursework necessary for their future health care profession. Depending on the desired pathway, these may include courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, neuroscience, physics, and psychology.

Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience

Edgewood College emphasizes experiential learning. Students will participate in internships, research, clinical experiences, and volunteer opportunities to gain real-world experience in health care settings, helping them build competitive resumes for graduate programs or professional careers.

Step 5: Prepare for Graduate Study

For students pursuing advanced degrees (such as medical, dental, or pharmacy school), your pre-health pathways advisor will assist with application processes, preparation for entrance exams like the MCAT or GRE, and letters of recommendation. Alternatively, for those entering the workforce immediately, Edgewood provides career services and professional development resources.

Pre-Health Pathways

  • Pre-Chiropractic
  • Pre-Dental
  • Pre-Medicine
  • Pre-Medical Sonography
  • Pre-Occupational Therapy
  • Pre-Optometry
  • Pre-Pharmacy
  • Pre-Physician Assistant
  • Pre-Physical Therapy
  • Pre-Public Health
  • Pre-Radiologist Technologist
  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Explore our Top 3 Most Common Pathways

Pre-Dental

Dentistry is a vital field focused on maintaining the health of the teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. Dentists diagnose, prevent, and treat oral health issues, helping patients maintain function and aesthetics. Most work in general practice, but some specialize in areas such as orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or oral surgery.

To become a dentist, students must complete a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Both programs typically require four years of dental school, where students learn advanced clinical skills and oral health sciences. After graduation, many dentists begin practicing immediately, while others choose to pursue additional post-graduate training.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentistry is a high-demand field with strong career prospects. The pre-dental pathway at Edgewood College prepares students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in dental school.

Pre-Medicine

Physicians trained in allopathic medicine (MD) diagnose disease, treat patients, and prescribe treatments. To become an MD, students complete four years of medical school, followed by an internship and a residency that can last three to nine years. Students who choose a specialization require additional training in a fellowship of one to three years.

In addition to MDs, some students choose to become osteopathic doctors (DO) who share the same responsibilities but also incorporate techniques like manipulative therapy. Both MD and DO pathways require four years of medical school, with additional training through internships and residencies.

Preparing for medical school involves completing specific courses, taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and selecting a major that fits your goals. Pre-med is not a major – students from various academic backgrounds can pursue this path. At Edgewood College, the pre-med pathway offers the resources and guidance you need to succeed.

You do not have to major in the sciences to be admitted to medical school. Check out the Association of American Medical Colleges’ Aspiring Docs program for more information and resources on becoming a medical doctor.

Pre-Physician Assistant

Physician assistants (PAs) are essential healthcare professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants, PAs perform tasks such as conducting physical examinations, diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting lab tests, assisting in surgeries, and providing patient education and counseling. PAs are integral to healthcare teams in hospitals, outpatient or rural clinics, and nursing homes.

Interest in PA programs has surged in recent years, making admission increasingly competitive. Many programs now require applicants to have significant healthcare experience, particularly in direct patient care. For instance, while some programs set a minimum requirement of 100 hours of direct patient care, the most competitive applicants have between 500 and 1,000 hours.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Physician Assistants are in high-demand and employment is projected to grow 28% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. At Edgewood College, the pre-physician assistant pathway helps students meet their academic and experiential requirements to stand out in the admissions process. From prerequisite coursework to guidance on gaining clinical experience, we provide the support and resources students need to pursue a professional career as a PA.

The Edgewood College Difference

Choosing a pre-health pathway at Edgewood College means you won’t be navigating this journey alone. Each student is paired with a dedicated Faculty Advisor who offers personalized 1:1 support every step of the way within your major. From helping you select the right courses to sharing insider tips on how to succeed in your field, the Faculty Advisor will partner with you in achieving your goals. And the support doesn’t stop at graduation – whether you need a letter of recommendation or career guidance, Career Services will continue to be there as you take the next steps in your healthcare career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Edgewood College offer additional pathways?

Absolutely! Edgewood College provides guidance for students across a wide range of pre-health professional pathways. The list above highlights the most common ones, but if you’re interested in a different path, we’re here to help. Let’s have a conversation and explore how we can support your unique professional goals!

Do I have to choose a specific major?

No, students are not limited to a specific major to pursue a pre-health pathway. However, certain majors may better prepare you for success in applying to professional programs. Some of our most popular choices for pre-health students include biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and psychology. Ultimately, what’s most important is meeting the prerequisite coursework for your desired program, and our advisors will help ensure you’re on track.

What if I’m not sure which career in health care is right for me?

Your Faculty Advisor will help you design a course schedule that keeps multiple health care career options open, allowing you to explore your interests. Talking with your advisor and using resources like ExploreHealthCareers.org can also help you discover the pathway that best fits your goals.

Can I see a sample course plan for my intended pathway?

While we don’t provide sample course plans on the website, we believe in creating a customized plan just for you. Your course plan will be tailored to your current major, minor, experience, and professional goals. Our dedicated advisors will work closely with you to ensure you’re on track to meet the requirements for your chosen pre-health pathway.

I’m already in a major and didn’t pursue a pre-health pathway. Is it too late?

It’s never too late to pursue your professional goals! Many students adjust their academic plans as they discover new interests. Our advisors will work with you to explore this decision, guide you through the transition, and help you understand the steps needed to meet the requirements for a pre-health pathway. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

What pathway do I follow to become a nurse?

Edgewood College offers several pathways to help you become a nurse. Nursing is a specific major, so if you’re interested in pursuing this rewarding career, we encourage you to explore our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. You will find detailed information about the program, admission requirements, and the support we provide to help you succeed.

What if I decide that nursing is the right path for me as I’m about to finish my degree in a non-nursing field?

If you are close to finishing a degree in a field like biology but are now considering nursing, the Henry Predolin School of Nursing offers a Post-Baccalaureate Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. This pathway is designed for students who decide later in their college journey to pursue nursing and want to transition quickly into the profession. Your Faculty Advisor can help you explore this option and see if it’s the right fit for your career goals.

Pre-Health Pathway Student Spotlight

Genevieve Adler

Genevieve Adler ’22

“I chose to study Neuroscience at Edgewood College because I am passionate about helping people with traumatic brain injuries. I am now receiving my doctorate in Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis and plan to pursue a Neurological Rehabilitation residency for physical therapy. My Neuroscience degree and senior research project prepared me immensely for my doctorate program. I cannot praise the Neuroscience program and professors enough, as I owe so much of my success to the incredible educators – Dr. del Moral and Dr. Spector.”

Pathway: Pre-Physical Therapy

Hunter Van Meeteren

Hunter Van Meeteren ’22

“I am currently a first year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine student at Des Moines University, and the academic and professional foundation I built through Edgewood College has been a great asset during this journey. The rigorous coursework through Edgewood College’s Neuroscience program emphasized scientific research and critical thinking skills that are essential for success in medical school. Additionally, hands-on lab and research experiences allowed me to develop problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills necessary for medical school and clinical practice.”

Pathway: Pre-Medicine

Taylor Bradley

Taylor Bradley ’21

“My time at Edgewood College was foundational for not only continuing my education but also my career. Faculty helped me explore my interests while also guiding me to academic success. The faculty are extremely passionate, approachable and dedicated to students’ education.”

Pathway: Pre-Medicine
Health Services Research Specialist in Wisconsin Surgical Outcomes Research Program’s (WiSOR) Department of Surgery

Student Organization

Achievement in Medicine (AIM) brings together students who are thinking of pursuing a degree in the medical/health field post-graduation. Guest speakers include doctors, physical therapists, physician assistants, dentists, pharmacists, and other individuals with other medical specialties have presented to members of AIM. Resources for MCAT/GRE as well as volunteer and shadow experiences are available through this organization.

 

Faculty Spotlight

Brenda Del Moral

Brenda del Moral

BdelMoral@edgewood.edu

Pete Kuh

Pete Kuhn

PKuhn@edgewood.edu

Nicole Kim

Nicole Kime

NKime@edgewood.edu

Ferrinne Spector

Ferrinne Spector

FSpector@edgewood.edu

Suzy Kareher_1x1

Suzy Karcher, DNP, APRN-CPNP AC

SuzKarcher@edgewood.edu

Yulia Semeniuk

Yulia Semeniuk, Ph.D.

YSemeniuk@edgewood.edu

April Yerges

April Yerges, Ph.D., CPN

ayerges@edgewood.edu

Hands-On Research and Networking Experiences

3D Virtual Cadaver Anatomage Table

This educational tool provides pre-nursing students with a unique and immersive way to study anatomy while enhancing their understanding of the human body. Students interact with a digital cadaver to learn all levels of anatomy from the whole body to microanatomy and includes 3D investigations of normal and pathological case studies. With this unprecedented level of detail, the advanced technology of the Anatomage table allows students to visualize every aspect of the human body and makes it an innovative tool used to teach anatomy and pathology. The interactive and dynamic nature of the tool makes learning anatomy more hands-on, creating an engaging learning experience. An investment in the students’ educational experience, the 3D Anatomage Table serves to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, ultimately improving the overall educational outcomes and clinical preparedness of all students studying health sciences.

Networking Opportunities

Edgewood biology graduates have excellent success obtaining jobs at local companies such as Exact Sciences, Promega, WI Department of Natural Resources, University of Wisconsin, UW Health, Medical College of Wisconsin, and Covance. Biology graduates who meet the requirements for entry into graduate and professional medical schools have successfully entered their preferred programs with a competitive success rate. This can be attributed to faculty’s expert advising, close student-to-faculty relationships, faculty-mentored independent research projects, and local networking through the student organization AIM and internships.

Undergraduate Research Facilities

The Biological Sciences Division at Edgewood College offers multiple research labs that are dedicated to undergraduate research. Most of the state-of-the-art labs and classroom space is in the Sonderegger Science Center, providing space that facilitates experiential learning. Additional classrooms, labs, and research space, including a greenhouse, are in Mazzuchelli Center, on the shore of Lake Wingra. You’ll have access to unique opportunities to step out of the classroom and get involved in research and projects that can impact the lake, its watershed, and the surrounding Madison neighborhoods.

Zebrafish Research Facility

The Biological Sciences Department engages students in research projects using molecular techniques such as qPCR, hormonal control of mating in anoles, invasive plant ecology, toxin and drug effects on learning and behavior in zebrafish, and more. A specific example of a student project was their investigation of the effects of a high-fat diet on exercise performance using a state-of-the-art swim tunnel in the zebrafish research facility.