Pre-Health Resources

Arizona university resources include:

• A.T. Still University
• Arizona State University
• Creighton University
• Grand Canyon University
• Mayo Clinic—Alix School of Medicine
• Midwestern University
• Northern Arizona University
• Sonoran University
• University of Arizona

Focus on dental anatomy, diagnosis, and treatment as you blend academic study with hands-on clinical experiences.

The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Resources

• ADEA School Explorer ($36 membership to access)
• How to Get into Dental School
• Preparing for Dental School
• The DAT

Local Schools and Programs

• A.T. Still University, Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health
• Midwestern University, College of Dental Medicine

Delve into osteopathic medicine, a medical practice that focuses on the whole person (mind, body, and emotions) rather than just treating symptoms.

The American Associate of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Applying to Medical School—Where to Start

Before applying to a medical school, you’ll need to identify what components the school looks for in a competitive applicant. Medical schools are competitive, and getting admitted requires more than just good grades and high test scores. Admissions committees look for well-rounded applicants with strong professional competencies and engagement. Here are some critical components you’ll need to focus on to become a competitive candidate:

• 3.7+ GPA in BCPM (biology, chemistry, physics, math)
• High test scores (MCAT, CASPer, PREview)
• Clinical and patient experience
• Research experience
• Community service
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

Resources

• The Difference Between a DO vs. MD
• Timeline for Becoming a DO
• Fun Facts for DO

Local Schools and Programs

• A.T. Still University—School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (DO)
• Midwestern University—Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

Learn evidence-based treatments using conventional medical tools. Explore human anatomy, physiology, and pathology while gaining clinical experience.

The Associate of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Applying to Medical School—Where to Start

Before applying to a medical school, you’ll need to identify what components the school looks for in a competitive applicant. Medical schools are competitive, and getting admitted requires more than just good grades and high test scores. Admissions committees look for well-rounded applicants with strong professional competencies and engagement. Here are some critical components you’ll need to focus on to become a competitive candidate:

• 3.7+ GPA in BCPM (biology, chemistry, physics, math)
• High test scores (MCAT, CASPer)
• Clinical and patient experience
• Research experience
• Community service
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

Resources

• Medical School Admission Requirements Chart
• Aspiring Docs (Resources)
• AAMC Guide: How to Get Into Medical School
• The Ultimate Guide to Medical School
• The AMCAS Applicant Guide
• Pre-Med Competencies

Local Schools and Programs

• Creighton University (MD)
• Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine (MD)
• University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix (MD)
• University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson (MD)

Focus on holistic and nontoxic approaches to wellness through natural therapies, including herbal supplements, physical medicine, exercise, nutritional counseling, mediation, acupuncture, massage therapy, and hydrotherapy.

The Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANCM) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Local Schools and Programs

• Sonoran University—College of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)

Study anatomy, physiology, and the biological basis of health conditions. Focus on helping individuals overcome challenges in their daily activities.

Note: Occupational Therapists provide rehabilitative services to people of all ages. They work with patients who have physical, psychosocial, or developmental impairments and help them regain their independence and the ability to participate in daily activities.

The American Occupational Therapy Association can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Local Schools and Programs

• A.T. Still University, (Doctoral)
• A.T. Still University (Masters)

Study the diagnosis and treatment of vision-related conditions of the human eye and visual system at an accredited optometry school. Can prescribe corrective lenses.

The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Local Schools and Programs

• Midwestern University, Arizona College of Optometry

Master pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical care, and collaborate with healthcare teams to manage medication therapy. A bachelor’s degree is not required for pharmacy school but is recommended.

The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Resources

• Why Pharmacy?
• Is Pharmacy Right for Me?
• Pharmacy College Application Service (PhmarCAS)

Local Schools and Programs

• Creighton University—Phoenix Hybrid Pathway
• Midwestern University, Glendale
• University of Arizona, Phoenix

Study biomechanics, neuroscience, and pharmacology and engage in clinical work. Help patients regain mobility through targeted physical therapy interventions.

Note: Physical Therapists use therapeutic modalities and procedures to help patients improve their movement and function and regain or maintain their independence. This could include rehabilitation from chronic conditions, traumatic events, and illnesses.

The American Physical Therapy Association can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Local Schools and Programs

• A.T. Still University, Arizona School of Health Sciences (DPT)
• Creighton University
• Midwestern University, Physical Therapy-Residential, Glendale (DPT)
• Northern Arizona University, Phoenix (DPT)
• University of Arizona (DPT)

Embark on a rigorous curriculum and clinical rotations to become a vital member of a healthcare team providing almost all the clinical services a physician provides.

Resources

• What is a PA?
• What is CASPA?
• PA Program Directory
• Become a PA

Local Schools and Programs

• A.T. Still University
• Creighton University  
• Midwestern University
• Northern Arizona University, Phoenix

Treat disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities through both clinical and surgical care.

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Local Schools and Programs

• Midwestern University, Arizona College of Podiatry Medicine

Study animal biology, anatomy, and physiology and learn to care for a wide range of animals through a combination of classroom instruction and clinical experience.

The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) can help you further explore this occupation, as well as the other helpful resources listed below.

Resources

• Veterinary Medical School Admission Requirements (school directory)
• Veterinary School Admission 101
• Centralized Application System for Veterinary Schools

Local Schools and Programs

• Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine
• University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine