HEALTH-CARE PROFESSIONS
In the seventeenth century the dedicated and highly motivated student who wanted to heal
people became a physician and that was that. Today there are more than two hundred distinct
professions in the health care area. Yet, in spite of this, many people still think that the
only road to becoming a health care professional is as an MD. The object of this Web site is
to provide you with an introduction (alphabetically ordered) to the many opportunities in the
health-care arena and at least one lead to more information on each
individual profession.
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Anesthesiologist's Assistant
Anesthesiologist's assistants are professionals who typically work as part of a health care team at a larger medical facility which offers complex, state-of-the-art procedures such as open heart surgery, neurosurgery, and transplant surgery. Anesthesiologist's assistants perform many of the procedures normally associated with anesthesiologists: preoperative procedures such as the insertion of arterial and intravenous catheters; drug administration for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia; support therapy with intravenous fluids and cardiovascular drugs; adjustment of anesthetic levels on a minute-by-minute basis; recovery room and intensive care unit and pain clinic care; and sometimes a variety of administrative and educational activities.
The employment opportunities for anesthesiologist's assistants are
excellent and are expected to remain so well into the future.
Students graduate from an Anesthesiologist's Assistant program with either a MS degree or a MMSc degree.
Requirements:
Applicants to Anesthesiologist's Assistant programs must have completed an undergraduate premedical program and have a bachelor's degree typically with a major in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, or computer science. Alternatively, they may have a bachelor's degree in nursing. Candidates must take the GRE general test; at Emory University the MCAT is being phased in as a requirement along with, but not replacing, the GRE. Candidates, therefore, would be well served by taking both tests.
Programs:
As of this writing, there are only two Anesthesiologist's Assistant programs in the United States: Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Of course, you should be aware that there will be very stiff competition for the small number of spaces in these programs. The addresses of these programs are listed below:
Emory University
Anesthesiologist's Assistant Program
School of Medicine
475 Woodruff Memorial Building
Atlanta, GA 30322
Tel: (404) 727-5910
Case Western Reserve University
Anesthesiologist's Assistant Program
2047 Abington Road
Cleveland, OH 44106
Tel: (216) 844-7342
For further information:
American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants
P.O. Box 81362
Wellesley, MA, 02481-0004
Tel: (800) 757-5858
Art Therapist
Art therapists treat, on an in- or out-patient basis, people suffering with physical, emotional, behavioral, or social problems. Carrying out and analyzing art tasks is the means of treatment. Art therapists may act in the capacity of primary therapist or as part of a treatment team.
Requirements:
Students with a liberal arts degree go into a master's program in Art Therapy. These programs take a minimum of two years to complete. Most programs also require a minimum of 600 hours of supervised practicum; a few require 1000 hours. Art therapists can apply for registration by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA) and receive the status ATR (Art Therapist, Registered).
NYU Contact:
NYU School of Art Education Therapy Program
34 Stuyvesant Street, Room 306
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5727
For further information:
The American Art Therapy Association, Inc.
1202 Allanson Road
Mundelein, IL 60060
Tel: (708) 949-6064
Audiologist
This term is now generally replaced by Speech Pathologist
Biomedical Scientist
The basic medical sciences encompass a variety of non-clinical areas of the medical school curriculum, including: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Environmental Oncology, Microbiology,
Parasitology, Pathology, Pharmacology, and Physiology. Most of these programs are located physically in a medical school with each basic medical science represented by a specific department. Most students in such programs receive full-tuition scholarships, frequently with living allowances.
Scientists in this field have many career opportunities. In the past they usually chose academic positions involving both research and teaching, including the training of future PhDs in basic medical science. With the present development of biotechnology industries, however, more and more scientists are entering research positions in industry, since a good deal of the research performed in this new and developing sector is in essence "basic research." In addition to research and/or teaching, some scientists leave "hands on" work for positions with government or private funding agencies, or agencies concerned with such issues as environmental protection, scientific ethics, education policy, and the like. Finally, some become popular periodical science writers or editors for scientific publishing companies.
Requirements:
All applicants must have a BS or BA degree in biology, chemistry, or physics, and have also had some research experience beyond formal laboratory courses. All candidates must take the GRE.
NYU Contacts:
Sackler Institute of Graduate Biomedical Studies
NYU School of Medicine
401 East 30 Street, Room 424GN
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 263-5648
Department of Biology
1009 Main Building
100 Washington Square East
New York, NY 10003-6688
Tel: (212) 995-4015
Recommended Reading:
The diversity of educational programs, information sources, and career opportunities in the biomedical sciences is vast. We suggest as a starting point an excellent article, "Careers in Biology-III," by Roy H. and Barbara W. Sago. This paper, in pamphlet form and augmented by a substantial list of professional societies from which students can request information, is available from the American Institute of Biological Sciences.
For further information:
American Institute of Biological Sciences
730 11th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001-4584
Tel: (202) 628-1500
Chiropractor
Chiropractors are concerned with the relationship between structure (the
spine, extravertebral joints, muscles, etc.) and function (the nervous and vascular systems). Chiropractors evaluate posture and spinal structure, and treat patients whose health problems are associated with the muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems. Although employment of chiropractors is to a degree governed by the economy there appears to be a general increase in the acceptance by the public for this type of treatment. This is particularly true in the western and southwestern states.
There are 18 chiropractic schools in the U.S. Training may be for as much as five years depending on the program. Applications must be sent directly to the school(s) in which you are interested.
Requirements:
All chiropractic colleges require applicants to have at least two years of undergraduate study. Most applicants have a bachelor's degree, and this is quickly becoming the minimum entry requirement.
Undergraduate pre-chiropractic study requires the following courses:
- Chemistry (organic and inorganic)
- Biology
- Physics
- Psychology
- English
- Humanities Electives
- Social Science Electives
The nearest chiropractic school:
New York Chiropractic College
PO Box 167
Glen Head, NY 11545
Tel: (516) 626-2700
The authoritative source of information on chiropractic schools: The Chiropractic College Admissions and Curriculum Directory, published and distributed by:
KM Enterprises
PO Box 25978
Los Angeles, CA 90025
For further information:
American Chiropractic Association
1701 Clarendon Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
Tel: (703) 276-8800
Community Psychologist
The goal of Community Psychology is to address critical social problems in context through action, research, and theory. Areas of concern include strategies of social intervention and change; primary prevention; empowerment of minorities, the homeless, and the elderly; stress and coping; and an array of social support networks.
Requirements:
A bachelor's degrees in psychology is distinctly the preferred background for entering graduate studies in community psychology. Undergraduate majors in other areas may have to fulfill additional requirements such as a course in psychological statistics. Practical experience in delivery settings is also an asset.
NYU Contact:
Department of Psychology
NYU Graduate School of Arts and Science
6 Washington Place, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-7796
For further information:
American Psychological Association
750 1st Street. NE
Washington, DC 20002-4242
Tel: (202) 336-5500
American Mental Health Counselors Association
5999 Stevenson Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22304
Tel: (703) 823-9800
Dentist
The modern dentist is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of problems related to the oral cavity-in many ways another specialist in the field of medicine. Dentists perform procedures to diagnose and treat problems of the teeth and tissues of the mouth, including corrective surgery of the gums and supporting bones. Current trends place emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, implantology, surgery, and the treatment of genetic defects. Psychological and medical implications make dentistry a significant contributor to the general health of the population. There are eight recognized specialties, requiring from one to four years of post-doctoral training. The specialties are: dental public health, endodontics, oral pathology, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatrics, periodontics, and prosthodontics.
With the discovery of the effectiveness of fluoride in the prevention of many dental problems, demand in the dental profession suffered a considerable decline during the '70's and '80's. This situation has now stabilized, however, and it is once again becoming relatively difficult to get into a good dental school. Dentistry is a very attractive career option, with a shortage of dentists predicted for the coming decades.
Requirements:
Minimum of 90 credits at an approved college or university; preference given to applicants with a bachelor's degree in the liberal arts or science, and it is very strongly recommended that you earn your bachelor's degree before proceeding to dental school.
Undergraduate predental study requires the following courses:
- Biology
- Chemistry (organic and inorganic)
- Mathematics (calculus)
- Physics
Applicants must take the Dental School Admissions Test (DAT).
The centralized application service:
American Association of Dental Schools Application Service
1625 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036-2212
Tel: (202) 667-1886
NYU Contact:
NYU College of Dentistry
421 First Avenue, Suite 1013W
New York, NY 10010
Tel: (212) 998-9818
Recommended Reading:
"Admission Requirements of United States and Canadian Dental Schools"
For further information:
American Dental Association
211 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Tel: (312) 440-2500
Dietician (Nutritionist)
"Dieticians and nutritionists use their knowledge of the principles of nutrition to help people develop healthy eating habits" (Careers for the 90's, 1991, Research and Education Association). Nutritionists and dieticians plan nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and serving of meals for such institutions as schools, hospitals, hotel chains, and prisons. They help prevent and treat conditions such as hypertension and obesity by promoting healthy eating habits.
To become a registered dietician, you must complete an academic program and a clinical training component of roughly half a year's duration before sitting for the registration exam. There are several different ways in which you can complete the requirements to become an RD; for a student with a BA degree, however, earning a master's degree in nutrition appears to be the most sensible approach.
Requirements:
Students must be well grounded in biology, chemistry, physiology, and computer applications, as well as social sciences.
NYU Contact:
Department of Nutrition
NYU School of Education
35 West 4th Street, Suite 1201
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5580
For further information:
American Dietetic Association
216 West Jackson Boulevard
Suite 800, Chicago, lL 60606-6995
Tel: (800) 877-1600
Foreign Medical Schools
For individuals who have their hearts set on becoming an MD, but who have been unable to gain acceptance into a US medical school, this may be an option. However, three words immediately spring to mind along with "Foreign Medical School"; they are "delicate," "difficult," and "dangerous." Extreme caution should be exercised here. The reason for this is that usually one's objective is not merely to earn an MD degree (that's easy), but to be able to practice medicine legally in this country. That is far more difficult.
A brief explanation is perhaps appropriate. In order to obtain a license to practice in a given state, you must fulfill three conditions. You must graduate from a medical school acceptable to the licensing board of that state, you must receive passing scores on the United States Medical Licensure Examinations (USMLEs or "Boards"), and you must enter and successfully complete a residency program in the United States. It is the second step, passing the Board exams that is the biggest stumbling block, and this is closely followed by obtaining your residency.
You should bear in mind that most students who are accepted into US medical schools find the entire process of becoming an MD, passing the Board Examinations, and practicing medicine to be extremely demanding and stressful. Irrespective of your talents, you must realistically expect that if you attend a foreign medical school you will have an even more difficult time passing the necessary examinations. You must be realistic in evaluating why you are applying to a foreign medical school in the first place. There are three very common reasons: poor grades in college, poor MCAT scores, or both. It is true, the MCAT is a standardized test and perhaps does not reflect your real abilities as a student or as a future doctor. Unfortunately, however, the Board exams are of the same format, and the best predictor of one's ability to pass the Boards is, sadly, the MCAT. Thus if you have tried valiantly and just have not been able to muster a satisfactory score on the MCAT, beware! A medical education at a foreign school is a very expensive undertaking. It may get you the MD or equivalent degree, but it does not allow you to practice in this country.
What is a "good" score on the MCAT? If you score 30 or above, it is probable that you could study the material necessary and eventually pass the exams. There are preparation courses for this purpose, just as there are for the MCAT. A score of less than 25 on the MCAT suggests that you will have enormous difficulty with the Boards and would be better advised not to take the risk. You are not permitted unlimited attempts at these exams, and they are spaced at infrequent intervals, which means that your debts keep mounting while you keep trying. With MCAT scores between 25 and 30, it is a gamble and depends very much on whether or not you can afford to lose the cost of the undertaking (roughly $200,000 by most estimates).
But, assuming that you have passed either the financial or the academic test of the preceding paragraph and have decided to make the attempt, the question then arises: "Where are the best foreign medical schools?"
In the past, unsuccessful applicants often turned to highly regarded European or Mexican medical schools as an alternative to going to an American school. For a number of reasons, these options are no longer viable ones: the European schools are much stricter about taking foreign students, the quality of the education at the most highly regarded Mexican school appears to have declined substantially, and it is now much more difficult to return to the United States with a foreign degree to practice medicine.
In place of these schools, a number of "offshore" medical schools have
sprung up, particularly in the Caribbean. Some of these, particularly
those which have been in existence for only a few years, are extremely
risky prospects. Before you plan to attend such a school, you MUST make
sure that it has a strong, solid program and good connections with enough
hospitals in the United States to enable you to enter a suitable residency
program. It is extremely difficult to obtain reliable information
regarding the quality of these schools. The schools themselves can be very
misleading; the AMA has stopped publishing information on the subject
because certain schools were deliberately abusing the evaluation system; and anecdotal information from friends who graduated from a foreign school even quite recently may have been true then, but not now. Check with the Prehealth Advising Office before seriously committing yourself.
We rely on information coming to us from various sources, particularly our own students enrolled in the individual schools. There are four foreign schools which we currently suggest to students who are aware of all the above dangers. Although there may be other satisfactory foreign schools for American students, bear in mind that only 27% of the US citizens attending foreign schools pass the USMLEs. For those attending US schools, the pass rate is over 95%.
Suggested foreign programs:
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
123 St. Stephen's Green
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel: International +353-1-478 0200
Excellent education, excellent pass rate but exceptionally few US students accepted.
Sackler School of Medicine (Tel Aviv, Israel)
New York State-American Program
17 East 62nd Street
New York, NY 10021
Tel: (212) 688-8811
Excellent pass rate, and accepts a fair number of US students, Hebrew is also taught during the first two years as it is necessary in order to communicate with patients.
Touro College/Technion (Haifa, Israel)
Biomedical Sciences
Bayshore, NY
Tel: (631) 665-1600
This is a five-year program, the first year of which is taught on the Touro College Campus; Hebrew is taught during the first two years as this is required in order to communicate with patients; excellent pass rate, accepts a small number of US students.
St. George's University School of Medicine
c/o the North American Correspondent
Medical School Services, Ltd.
1 East Main Street
Bay Shore, NY 11706-9990
Tel: (516) 665-8500
A satisfactory pass rate, and accepts a large number of US students.
Genetic Counselor
Genetic counselors are health professionals who provide information,
advice, and support to individuals and families who may be at risk from
genetically transmitted diseases, disorders, and birth defects. The
massive international effort to map all human genes is virtually
completed, and tests for
specific genes are widely available. Should individuals avail themselves
of such tests? What
do the results of these tests mean? What options are available to individuals who have such "defective" genes? The answers to these questions are not simple, and involve an understanding of genetics, statistics, psychology, ethics, law, and sociology. This is the province of the genetic counselor.
Training is available at the MS, MD, PhD, MD/PhD, and post-doctoral level.
Requirements:
For someone with a bachelor's degree wishing to apply to an MS program, a knowledge of genetics, statistics, and psychology is essential. A biology or psychology major with some additional elective courses will provide an excellent starting point.
The nearest programs in Genetic Counseling:
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Kennedy Center
1410 Pelham Parkway South
Bronx, NY 10461
Tel: (212) 430-2501
Sarah Lawrence College
Slonim House
915 Kimball Avenue
Bronxville, NY 10708
Tel: (914) 395-2371
For further information:
Descriptions of all programs in Genetic Counseling as well as in other areas of Human Genetics are given in "The Guide," available from:
The American Society of Human Genetics
9650 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20814-3998
Tel: (301) 571-1825
Health Care Administrator/Health Policy Manager
The health care administrator is the person who coordinates much of what goes on behind the scenes in a health care setting, be that setting a major teaching hospital, a nursing home, an HMO, or a dental clinic. Individual health care administrators find themselves in a wide range of career positions from assistant administrators or directors of group practices to directors of HMOs or CEOs of major hospitals.
Health care administrators can be classified into two groups: generalists and clinical specialists. Generalists oversee an entire hospital or HMO or serve as assistants to the chief administrator. Clinic administrators oversee the administration of specialized health care services-physical therapy, long-term care, radiology, and the like.
The field of health care administration is expected to grow at a much
faster than average rate for all occupations until at least the year 2010
(Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2002-03 edition, US Department of Labor).
Students who wish to pursue a career in Health Care Administration can study in an accredited undergraduate program in Health Services Administration leading to a bachelor's degree. Some students opt to pursue a liberal arts degree at the undergraduate level and then pursue a master's degree in Health Services Administration.
NYU Contact:
Health Policy and Management Program
NYU Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
4 Washington Square North
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-7400
For further information:
The Association of University Programs in Health Administration
1911 N. Fort Meyer Drive, Suite 503
Arlington, VA 22209
Tel: (703) 524-5500
In these programs, students are registered for a master's degree, and they take several medical school classes with first-year medical students. The object is ostensibly to prepare the candidate for research and similar work in the health sciences. It is no secret, however, that many students use these programs fruitfully to improve their chances of admission to medical school (sometimes also to veterinary medical or dental school). There are a number of programs which give students the opportunity to demonstrate that they can handle the course work and then reapply to medical school. Obviously, good grades in the classes show that the student can succeed in professional school. Students are permitted-even encouraged-to apply to medical school and are by no means required to complete the master's programs (some of the programs are for only one year). You would not be exempted from the first year because you will not have completed the entire first full year of medical school, only several courses. Exemption from the particular courses already completed is entirely at the discretion of the medical school of matriculation.
Two words of warning: A student considering this approach should bear
in mind that the probable reason for his or her original nonacceptance was
grades. Is it realistic to expect a significant improvement in the
upcoming year to cause a medical school to change its opinion? Every other
student in the program is going to be in a similar situation, trying
equally hard. Only a small percentage will actually gain admission. For
this reason it would be wise to enroll only in those programs which,
should you still not be admitted to medical school, provide you with some
extra qualification which you can use in an alternative career, should
that be necessary. The Prehealth Advising office keeps a binder of current
programs.
Nearby Program:
Hahnemann University
Mail Stop 344
Broad and Vine
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Tel: (215) 762-7864
Nurse (RN)
Students who are attracted to the health professions because they are particularly interested in the art of healing might want to give serious thought to nursing. Nurses provide direct care to people of all ages and in a variety of settings. Nursing care includes health promotion activities such as nutrition; immunization or baby care information; disease prevention such as blood pressure screening; acute care, including first aid and CPR; and rehabilitative care.
With the changes taking place in the medical profession the opportunities open for motivated and ambitious nurses are many. Clearly there are many similarities between the work performed by nurses and MDs. Nursing combined with a specialty (e.g., nurse-anesthetist) or nurse-practitioner are longer-term goals where autonomy and flexibility are making this area exceptionally attractive.
The employment opportunities are excellent; there is a shortage of nurses. Salaries have increased dramatically in the past several years, the types of settings in which nurses work are endless, and hours and conditions are extremely flexible.
While it is possible to enter directly into a BSN degree program from high school, there are a few accelerated nursing programs designed specifically for people who have earned bachelor degrees in other areas. At NYU College of Nursing, there is an
15-month program leading to the BSN degree and RN licensure. The NYU
College of Nursing also offers the Dual Degree BS/MS Program for students
interested in becoming a Nurse Practitioner. At schools not having an accelerated program, you would generally apply as a transfer student, receive transfer credit for the required science and liberal arts, and then proceed with the nursing sequences. Nursing schools vary widely in how they treat college graduates, so you should check with the schools in which you are interested.
Requirements:
For college graduates: A grade point average of
2.8 or above; postbaccalaureate science courses of above 2.8. (The GPA requirement for
the Accelerated Program is usually 3.0 or higher.) Required prerequisite courses:
- Introduction to Modern Chemistry with laboratory
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- Nutrition
- Life Span or Developmental Psychology
NYU Contact:
Office of Student Affairs and Admissions
NYU College of Nursing
246 Greene Street, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5317
E-mail: nursing.programs@nyu.edu
For further information:
National League of Nursing (NLN)
350 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
Tel: (212) 989-9393
Nurse-Midwife
Certified nurse-midwives (CNM) provide a wide range of primary health care services: primary and gynecological care, preconception and prenatal care, labor and delivery management, and postpartum and infant care. They are trained to promote birth without modern intervention practices, but when necessary utilize modern medical technology.
Nurse-midwives consider childbirth to be a natural process and seek to provide a complete approach to care-both physiological and psychological. Greater numbers of women are choosing nurse-midwives for their maternity care because they appreciate this holistic approach. Midwives traditionally spend more time with their patients throughout both prenatal care and the labor process. This practice allows a stronger relationship to be built between the midwife and the patient and for the patient to continue learning about the process through her provider. Beyond the range of maternity care nurse-midwives also provide well-woman gynecological care on an ongoing basis. Nurse-midwives have the independence to work closely with their patients and their families to provide the best possible care.
Nurse-midwives practice in a variety of settings from free-standing birthing centers to community and hospital-based clinics. In addition to being a practicing midwife, there are possibilities of doing clinical research, teaching at a university, or promoting legislation and health care reform.
Requirements:
Certified nurse-midwives are educated in both nursing and midwifery. In order to become a CNM, you must first earn the certification of RN. This is followed by additional study in midwifery, which may take the form of a certificate program or the master's degree.
The certificate program usually entails 9-12 months of study while the master's program is usually of 16-24 months' duration. Many programs require additional clinical experience. The master's programs usually require the results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). There are a few programs that have a three-year curriculum in which the RN is earned in the first year and the remaining time is spent on midwifery.
On completing any of the above midwifery programs, you are eligible to sit for the national midwifery exam. Nurse-midwives are licensed in all 50 states.
NYU Contact:
Nurse-Midwifery Program
NYU School of Education
Division of Nursing
Office of Enrollment Services
246 Greene Street
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5317
E-mail: nursing.programs@nyu.edu
For further information:
American College of Nurse-Midwives
Education Department
818 Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20006
Tel: (202) 728-9877
Nutritionist
(See Dietician )
Occupational Therapist
"Occupational therapists help mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabled individuals develop, recover, or maintain daily living, work, and social skills. They help patients improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, as well as help them learn to dress, bathe, cook, or operate machinery. [They] also help permanently disabled patients cope with the physical and emotional effects of being disabled" (Careers for the 90's, 1991, Research and Education Association). Their goal is to prevent further impairment and to help an individual maximize his or her potential for independence.
A bachelor's degree in occupational therapy is the minimum requirement
for this field, though students already holding a liberal arts BA would
generally be best served by earning a master's degree in occupational
therapy.
Requirements:
Students applying to the master's program in Occupational Therapy should have taken the following courses at the undergraduate level:
- Biology with a lab (one semester)
- Basic Statistics (one semester)
- Sociology (intro)
- Psychology (intro)
- Abnormal Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology
NYU Contact:
Department of Occupational Therapy
NYU School of Education
35 West 4 Street, 11th floor
New York, NY 10012
Tel: (212) 998-5825
For further information:
American Occupational Therapy Association
PO Box 1725
1383 Piccard Drive
Rockville, MD 20850-4375
Tel: (301) 652-2682
Optometrist
"Doctors of optometry (optometrists) are . . . educated, clinically trained, and state licensed to examine the eyes and vision system, diagnose vision problems or impairments, and prescribe and provide treatments" (Admissions to Schools and Colleges of Optometry, 1990). Optometrists diagnose vision problems and eye diseases. They prescribe corrective lenses and treat certain diseases of the eye, and optometrists are the primary source of ocular care in the United States.
There are 18 schools of optometry in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada. Application deadlines vary widely from school to school. You certainly should gain experience and exposure to this health profession by working in a vision center or optometrist's office.
Requirements:
At least three years of undergraduate education; schools show a strong preference for applicants with a bachelor's degree. You are very strongly advised to complete your baccalaureate degree before proceeding to Optometry School. Applicants must take the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT).
Undergraduate pre-optometry study requires the following courses:
- Biology
- Chemistry (inorganic and organic)
- Mathematics (calculus and statistics)
- Physics
Nearest school of optometry:
SUNY College of Optometry
100 East 24th Street
New York, NY 10010
Tel: (212) 780-5100
For further information:
American Optometric Association
Educational Services
243 North Lindbergh Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63141
Tel: (314) 991-4100
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medicines and drugs prescribed by physicians, dentists, and podiatrists. They advise patients and doctors about the effects and strengths of both prescription and over-the-counter medications, including selection and dosage.
Most pharmacy schools break their education into two parts: two years of "preprofessional education," and a subsequent period of "professional studies." A student with an undergraduate degree including the regular prehealth curriculum generally would be accepted as a transfer student directly into the professional part of the program. You do not necessarily have to have a pharmacy degree to be eligible for a graduate degree in pharmacy.
Pharmacy education is undergoing a major basic change: "In July 1992, a majority of the nation's schools and colleges of pharmacy voted to designate the doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) as the only professional degree in pharmacy. However, as schools make plans to offer the Pharm.D. degree and modify their curricula accordingly, some will continue to offer the BS in pharmacy during the foreseeable future. Either degree currently fulfills the degree requirements to take licensure examination of a state board of pharmacy in order to practice pharmacy. . . . A Pharm.D. degree requires four years of professional study . . . it often provides the opportunity for students to gain greater experience in patient-centered learning experiences and in working in close cooperative relationships with health practitioners" (Pharmacy School Admission Requirements 1995-1996).
Requirements:
Most schools require the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT). The preprofessional requirements vary from school to school, but the following are essential:
- Biology
- Chemistry (organic and inorganic)
- Calculus
- Physics
- Humanities electives
- Social Science electives
The nearest pharmacy schools:
College of Pharmacy
The State University of New Jersey
PO Box 789
Piscataway, NJ 08855-0789
Tel: (201) 932 2674
College of Pharmacy
Long Island University
75 DeKalb Ave at University Plaza
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Tel: (718) 403-1012
College of Pharmacy & Allied Health Professions
St. John's University
Grand Central and Utopia Parkways
Jamaica, NY 11439
Tel: (718) 990-6362
School of Pharmacy
State University of New York at Buffalo
C126 Cooke-Hochstetter Complex
Buffalo, NY 14260
Tel: (716) 636-2848
For further information:
American Association of Schools of Pharmacy
1426 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Physical Therapist
"Physical therapists work to improve the mobility, relieve the pain, and prevent or limit the permanent disability of patients suffering from injuries or disease" (Careers for the 90's, 1991, Research and Education Association), such as accident victims and amputees, and help individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy or arthritis with daily functioning. They use exercise, ultrasound, and other methods to relieve pain and increase the range of mobility, and to help patients adjust to the use of crutches, wheelchairs, and prosthetics.
Physical therapy can be studied at either the undergraduate level or the graduate level. Those students who already have a liberal arts degree have two options: earn a second bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy, or apply to an entry-level graduate program. Starting in 1998, NYU will offer a three year entry-level clinical Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS) program. This program has already received approval by the New York State Board of Regents.
Requirements:
Irrespective of which of these two pathways you choose, the requirements are basically the same:
- Biology (two semesters)
- Chemistry (general or inorganic)
- Chemistry (preferably organic or biochemistry)
- Physics (two semesters)
- English (two semesters)
- Humanities (one semester)
- Mathematics (one semester)
- Speech communications
- Liberal Arts (three semesters)
Acceptance into PT programs is very competitive.
NYU Contact:
Department of Physical Therapy
NYU School of Education
421 First Avenue
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-9400
For further information:
American Physical Therapy Association
1111 North Fairfax St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
Tel: (800) 999-2782
Physician (Doctor of Medicine, MD)
Physicians are involved in every subfield of the health care profession in both clinical and research areas. Students who are interested in the field of medicine should be prepared to work independently, as part of a health care team, or as a paid employee under the direction of the administrator of an HMO.
Those of you who follow health care issues in the newspapers know that students are choosing to go into MD programs despite strong indications that their life in the field will by no means be as independent, affluent, or stable as were the careers of the earlier generation of physicians.
Undergraduate pre-medical study requires at least the following courses:
- one semester Calculus
- two semesters Biology
- two semesters College Chemistry with laboratory
- two Semesters Organic Chemistry with laboratory
- two semesters Physics
- two semesters English
Since students must have a BA or BS to go on to medical school, not only must they take the prerequisite courses, they must do very well indeed in terms of grades both in the sciences and in the liberal arts.
Students are most strongly encouraged to establish a track record of long-term commitment to the health professions through volunteer work over a sustained period of semesters and years. Students must also take the standardized Medical Colleges Admissions Test (MCAT).
NYU Contact:
NYU School of Medicine
550 First Avenue
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 253-5200
For further information:
Association of American Medical Colleges
2450 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037-1126
Tel: (202) 828-0400
American Medical Association
Division of Undergraduate Medical Education
515 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60610
Tel: (312) 464-5000
Physician (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, DO)
There are a few slight differences between allopathic physicians and osteopathic physicians. "The basic difference between doctors of osteopathy and doctors of medicine is that the osteopathic profession has pioneered an emphasis on the importance of the musculoskeletal system in health and disease and has developed and used manipulative diagnosis and treatment" (Education of the Osteopathic Physician, 1990). Another difference is that osteopathic medical students are strongly urged to go into primary care areas: general and family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics/gynecology, so students drawn to these areas may find that osteopathy is ultimately their best option. If you had another specialty in mind, you should bear in mind three points: 1) osteopathic physicians are able to specialize in other areas if they so desire; 2) the primary care areas are those of greatest need in the United States, and 3) many other specialty areas are almost, if not entirely, saturated.
In many areas outside of metropolitan areas (where there often is a big concentration of medical centers and physicians) DOs and MDs often work side by side and in the same hospitals. In some states, there is only one licensing agency for both MDs and DOs.
There are 19 osteopathic medical schools in the U.S.
The central application service:
The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS)
6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 405
Rockville, MD 20852
Tel: (301) 468-2037
For further information:
To learn more about osteopathic medicine, we suggest the following pamphlets as a start: Osteopathic Medicine, What IS a DO? What IS an MD? and Osteopathic Medical Education, made available through:
New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
Old Westbury, NY 11568
Tel: (516) 626-6947
Two good additional sources of information: "AOA Fact Sheet" and "Osteopathic Physicians Moving into the Mainstream" (reprint from the June 26, 1995, American Medical News). These are available through the AOA:
American Osteopathic Association
Order Department
142 East Ontario Street
Chicago, IL 60611-2864
Tel: (800) 621-1773
Requirements:
Undergraduate pre-osteopathic medical study requires the following courses:
- Chemistry (organic and inorganic)
- Biology (two semesters)
- Physics (general; two semesters)
- Mathematics (calculus)
- Humanities Electives
- Social Science Electives
The MCAT is required, and deadlines are generally March 1 of the senior year.
Additionally, schools of osteopathic medicine evaluate letters of recommendation, leadership qualities, and participation in both academic and non-academic extra-curricular activities. It is becoming increasingly important that you have considerable, direct experience under the tutelage of a DO.
Nearest college of Osteopathic Medicine:
New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
Old Westbury, NY 11568
Tel: (516) 626-6947
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants provide health care under the direction and supervision of a doctor. "The functions of the physician assistant include performing diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive and health maintenance services in any setting in which the physician renders care, in order to allow more effective and focused application of the physician's particular knowledge and skills" (Allied Health Education Directory, 1994-1995 edition, American Medical Association). The employment outlook for PAs is very good, and the variety of settings in which PAs practice is almost endless.
The entry to this profession is through a two-year, certified PA program. There are also master's degrees, and (second) bachelor's degrees.
For further information:
American Academy of Physician Assistants
950 North Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Tel: (708) 389-3785
Ask for their free brochure entitled "Physician Assistants, Partners in Health Care" or purchase their National Directory of Physician Assistant Programs.
Special information for students interested in becoming a physician’s assistant
If you are interested in this alternative career, then you should acquaint yourself as early as possible with the website of the Association of Physician Assistant Programs, www.apap.org, to learn more about the profession. (Another website worth a visit is the homepage of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, www.aapa.org.)
This website is the place to subscribe for on-line access to an important resource: the “Physician Assistant Programs Directory,” which is not available in a printed version. For a modest fee, you will be able to look up PA programs and learn about their admissions requirements. Go to www.apap.org/directory/index.htm.
Many of these programs require that students apply through the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA), which is also accessed through www.apap.org.
Podiatrist
Doctors of podiatric medicine perform most of the functions of physicians, but their treatment focuses solely on the feet and lower legs. Upon completion of the doctoral degree, students may enter a one- to three-year residency or a one-year preceptorship. There are a number of specialties including sports medicine, surgery, pediatrics, geriatrics, and orthopedics/biomechanics. Students with a particular interest in sports medicine or surgery should give this field very serious consideration.
Employment of podiatrists is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005 as more people turn to podiatrists for foot care.
There are seven podiatric schools in the U.S., located in California, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
Requirements:
A minimum of 90 credit hours with an acceptable GPA. 90% of applicants have completed a bachelor's degree.
Undergraduate prepodiatry study requires the following courses:
- Biology (two courses)
- Chemistry (organic and inorganic)
- Physics
- English (minimum of 6 credits)
Applicants must take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).
The nearest podiatric medical school:
New York College of Podiatric Medicine
53 East 124th Street
New York, NY 10035
Tel: (212) 410-8046
For further information:
American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine
1350 Piccard Drive - Suite 322
Rockville, MD 20850
American Podiatric Medical Student Association
Index of Professions
Postbaccalaureate Prehealth Programs
(see also Medical Science Track Programs)
You do not have to have an undergraduate major in the sciences or to have been an undergraduate prehealth student to enter a school of the health professions. Students without a science background can qualify to enter a school of the health professions through a postbaccalaureate prehealth program.
Students who wish to pursue postbaccalaureate study are usually more certain of their commitment than students who pursue prehealth courses at the undergraduate level.
NYU Contact:
Office of Preprofessional Advisement
NYU College of Arts and Science
100 Washington Square East
Main Building, Room 904
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-8160
A list of colleges offering postbaccalaureate programs is available from:
American Medical Association
535 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, IL 60610
Tel: (312) 645-5000
Recreational Therapist
Recreational therapists employ medically approved activities to maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their patients. Activities include drama, dance, games, music, crafts, and field trips.
Requirements:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree with a major in recreational therapy. Relevant courses include: anatomy, psychology, and art. Some states require a certification examination.
NYU Contact:
Program in Recreation and Leisure Studies
Department of Health Education
NYU School of Education
Education Building, Suite 1201
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5600
Science/Mathematics Educator
Students interested specifically in the health professions should give serious consideration to the teaching of science and mathematics for two reasons: 1) the teacher-student relationship is similar to that of the doctor and patient, and 2) both involve proficiency in and enjoyment of the sciences. For those uncertain of their commitment to the health professions, science teaching provides an opportunity to hone further the appropriate skills and develop a solid track-record in the "helping professions."
Science education, in common with the entire educational system in America, is both in need of and in the process of change. "Overall employment of kindergarten, elementary, and secondary school teachers is expected to increase faster than average for all occupations through the year 2005. . . . Employment of secondary school teachers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. . . . Enrollments in teacher training programs already have increased in recent years. . . . Mathematics, science and special education teachers remain in short supply" (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 1994-1995 edition, US Department of Labor). "The goal of the science teacher is to stimulate in young minds a deep interest in this practical and exciting way of understanding the world, to show them the infinite possibilities of studying the forces that permit life on this planet, and to encourage aptitudes that may lead to careers in science: teaching, research, or professional practice" (New York University Bulletin, School of Education, Undergraduate).
Science educators usually major in a science at the undergraduate level, and some may go on to graduate work in their field. A core of education courses, student teaching, and a certification test set the science educator apart from science students who are not prepared for teaching. Usually science educators seek to become certified by the state in which they live, as this leads to a broader range of teaching opportunities and to higher salaries.
NYU Contacts:
Advising Center
NYU College of Arts and Science
Room 905, Main Building
100 Washington Square East
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-8130
Teacher Certification Officer
NYU School of Education
East Building, Suite 200
239 Greene Street
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5200
Social Worker
Clinical social workers are prepared to counsel teenagers, help neglected children, work with people dependent on alcohol or drugs, assist members of a broken family, and improve the quality of life for the chronically ill, the elderly, and the disabled. They may work for hospitals or in the public sector, clinics, or private practice.
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution; 60 credits of liberal arts; intellectual capacity for graduate education; evidence of emotional maturity, concern for people, and a capacity for self-awareness and personal growth; good physical health in relation to the demands of the program; and an undergraduate grade point average of "B."
NYU Contact:
NYU Ehrenkranz School of Social Work
2 Washington Square North
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5910
Special Education Teacher
Teachers of special education provide educational services to individuals with disabilities. They help students of all ages develop the skills to be successful and independent in school and their community. Most special educators work in schools, while some are employed as specialists in hospital and residential programs.
Requirements:
Those interested should contact the department directly regarding program requirements for undergraduate and master's degrees.
NYU Contact:
Program Director of Special Education
Department of Teaching and Learning
NYU School of Education
East Building, Suite 200
239 Greene Street
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5200
Speech Pathologist (Audiologist)
Professionals in this field provide evaluation and rehabilitation for persons with any of a full range of communication disabilities and will engage in research into normal and disabled communication. They work in hospitals, schools, and communication laboratories, and provide primary service in private practice.
Requirements:
Licensure requires at least a master's degree in speech pathology. Those interested should contact the department directly.
NYU Contact:
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Department
NYU School of Education
719 Broadway, 4th floor
New York, NY 10003
Tel: (212) 998-5225
Surgeon Assistant
This is a specialty within Physician Assistant.
Veterinary Physician
"Veterinarians care for pets, livestock, sporting and laboratory animals, and protect humans against diseases carried by animals. Veterinarians diagnose medical problems, dress wounds, set broken bones, perform surgery, prescribe and administer medicines, and vaccinate animals against diseases. They also advise owners on care and breeding.
"Most veterinarians are in private practice. Some have a general practice treating all kinds of animals. The majority, however, just treat small companion animals such as dogs, cats, and birds. Others treat both small and larger animals, and some treat only large animals such as cattle and horses"(Occupational Outlook Handbook, US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor of Labor Statistics, May 1994, Bulletin 2450).
Requirements:
The preveterinary requirements are for the most part identical with the courses which premedical students must take. Veterinary schools, however, often require science courses above and beyond the prehealth curriculum. These requirements vary from veterinary school to veterinary school.
The authoritative text on the veterinary school application process is Veterinary Medical School Admissions Requirements in the United States and Canada
(VMSAR).
Although this is published annually, the requirements change exceptionally little from year to year. We suggest that you purchase your own copy immediately, and check with the Preprofessional Advisement Office each year to see if there have been any significant changes.
For further information:
American Veterinary Medical Association
930 North Meacham Road
Schaumberg, Il 60196
Tel: (708) 925-8070
Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges
1023 15th Street NW, Third Floor
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: (202) 371-9195 or (202) 789-2655