Thinking about a future in medicine? A college degree is definitely a key step on your path to becoming a doctor or another healthcare professional. You might be wondering if there’s a single “best” major to choose. The good news is, there isn’t! The journey to medical school and a medical career is more flexible than you might think. If you dream of being a physician, nurse, physician’s assistant, dentist, pharmacist, physical therapist, or any other role in the medical field, you have a range of academic options to explore.
Data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that while biology is a popular choice, with nearly half of future doctors majoring in it, many successful physicians come from diverse academic backgrounds [1]. You’ll find doctors who studied other sciences, mathematics, and even fields like business, English, or fine arts.
Let’s explore some of the most effective “Doctor Majors” – undergraduate degrees that can set you on the right course for a rewarding career in healthcare.
What are Doctor Majors? (Debunking the “Pre-Med” Myth)
You’ve probably heard of “pre-med.” Many universities offer a pre-med program, but it’s important to understand that pre-med isn’t actually a major. Instead, it’s a track or advisory program designed to guide you through the specific courses and lab work typically required for medical school admission. Think of it as a roadmap to ensure you’re hitting all the academic milestones needed for your medical school application.
Within a pre-med track, you still choose a specific undergraduate major. This major, combined with the pre-med coursework, becomes your “doctor major” – the academic foundation you build for your medical career aspirations. A pre-med track is particularly helpful for preparing for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam, a crucial part of the medical school application process.
A visual representation emphasizing the diverse and interconnected nature of academic disciplines, relevant to the discussion on varied majors suitable for medical school.
Top Doctor Majors to Consider
Choosing the right “doctor major” is a personal decision, but exploring popular and effective options can help you make an informed choice. Here are some top majors frequently pursued by aspiring medical professionals:
Biology
Biology consistently ranks as a leading major for individuals aiming for medical careers, especially those aspiring to become physicians and surgeons. The BLS reports that in 2015, almost half (48.7 percent) of all employed physicians and surgeons held a biology degree as their undergraduate major [1]. Data from the Association of American Medical Colleges further supports this, indicating that over half of medical school applicants in 2021-2022 majored in biology or biological sciences for their bachelor’s degrees [2].
A biology major naturally incorporates many of the science prerequisites and laboratory requirements mandated by medical schools. You’ll delve into subjects like human biology, anatomy, physiology, and genetics, providing a strong foundation in the life sciences.
If you opt for biology, ensure you balance your science focus with a well-rounded education by including non-science courses in your curriculum. While specific program requirements vary, typical courses for a biology major often include:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biochemistry
- Biology I & II
- Biology labs
- Calculus
- Evolutionary biology
- Genetics
- Organic chemistry
Coursera Plus promotional image, highlighting access to diverse learning programs and career skill development opportunities, relevant to students exploring different academic paths for medical careers.
Biochemistry
Similar to biology, biochemistry majors explore living organisms but with a stronger emphasis on chemistry and its impact on biological systems. Biochemistry is another popular and effective “doctor major” choice for those planning to attend medical school.
You can expect a significant science-heavy curriculum with extensive coursework and labs in both biology and chemistry. Biochemistry often involves a greater focus on mathematics and physics compared to a pure biology major. A typical course load for biochemistry might include:
- Organic chemistry
- Inorganic chemistry
- Biology I & II
- Biology and chemistry labs
- Microbiology
- Calculus
- Physics
- Molecular biology
- Genetics
Biomedical Engineering
For students fascinated by technology and its application in medicine, biomedical engineering offers a compelling “doctor major” option. This interdisciplinary field blends science coursework with engineering principles, exploring how technology can advance healthcare.
Biomedical engineering graduates often pursue careers developing and improving medical devices, from sophisticated heart monitors and diagnostic equipment to groundbreaking work on artificial organs. However, this major also provides excellent preparation for medical school, offering a unique perspective on the tools and technologies used in modern medicine. Coursework may encompass:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Biomolecular engineering
- Medical diagnostics
- Biomechanics
- Bioelectrics
Nursing
An undergraduate degree in nursing is a direct pathway to becoming a registered nurse (RN). It can also serve as a powerful stepping stone towards advanced nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner, and even medical school. Nursing is a practical and patient-centered “doctor major” option.
Many nursing programs naturally incorporate some pre-medical school prerequisite courses, though you might need to supplement with a few additional science courses. A key advantage of nursing degrees is the required clinical internships in hospital or clinical settings. This hands-on experience provides invaluable practical skills and helps develop essential bedside manner, crucial for future medical professionals.
Furthermore, a nursing degree provides a solid career backup. If you decide to take time off before medical school, you can work as an RN, gaining further clinical experience and earning income. Typical nursing coursework includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anatomy and physiology
- Nursing ethics
- Health assessment
- Clinical theory
- Pharmacology
- Patient care practices
- Sociology
- Psychology
Read more: How Hard Is Nursing School? Tips for Success
Psychology
Don’t underestimate the power of social sciences! Psychology, a social science major, is not only a strong undergraduate degree choice for future physicians but is often highly valued by medical schools. Psychology as a “doctor major” brings a unique and human-focused perspective.
Choosing psychology can differentiate you from the majority of biology and chemistry applicants, adding valuable diversity to medical school classes. You’ll develop crucial workplace skills essential for a humanistic approach to medicine, including empathy, communication, critical thinking, and resilience. The BLS indicates that approximately 6.6 percent of employed doctors and surgeons hold psychology degrees [1].
Many universities offer specializations within their psychology programs, and some even provide a pre-med track within psychology, ensuring you complete necessary science, math, and English prerequisites for medical school. Typical psychology courses include:
- General psychology
- Statistics
- Psychiatry
- Developmental psychology
- Clinical psychology
- Neuroscience
- Social psychology
- Cognitive psychology
- Educational psychology
- Psychological disorders
Public Health
If you’re drawn to population-level health and preventative medicine, public health is an impactful “doctor major” to consider. This field shifts the focus from individual patient care to the health and well-being of entire communities and populations. Public health emphasizes preventative strategies, analyzing health trends, and promoting overall wellness.
A public health undergraduate degree opens doors to various careers within the broader health sector. Like psychology, many universities offer a pre-med track within public health, making it an excellent pathway to medical school for students passionate about population health. Relevant coursework may include:
- Epidemiology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Nutrition
- Biostatistics
- Public health practices
- Community health practice
- Occupational health management
Read more: What Is Public Health? Your Career Guide
Economics
Economics might seem like an unexpected “doctor major,” but it’s a surprisingly valuable and increasingly common choice. Like psychology, economics is a social science that cultivates critical thinking skills applicable to the complexities of healthcare.
An economics major can potentially improve your MCAT scores by strengthening analytical and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, understanding economic principles can be highly beneficial in the medical profession. You’ll gain insights into healthcare affordability, managing a private practice, and navigating the intricacies of insurance systems.
Economics is a strong choice if you have an aptitude for numbers and are comfortable with mathematical concepts. However, be aware that you might need to take extra science courses to fulfill medical school prerequisites. Typical economics courses include:
- Economic principles
- Statistics
- Calculus
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Algebra
- Economic forecasting
Math and Statistics
For those with a strong mathematical inclination, math and statistics majors provide a rigorous and analytical foundation for medical school. While often perceived as challenging, doctors with math backgrounds often report that the demanding nature of their undergraduate studies prepared them exceptionally well for the rigors of medical school. Math as a “doctor major” hones critical thinking and precision.
Studying math fosters critical and analytical thinking skills, essential for medical diagnosis and problem-solving. The precision demanded in mathematics also translates well to the accuracy required in medical procedures and treatments. Coursework for math or statistics majors might include:
- Algebra
- Calculus
- Statistics
- Data science
- Probability
- Geometry
- Foundations of math
- Computer science
- Analysis
Foreign Language
Effective communication is paramount in medicine. Being proficient in a foreign language, particularly one widely spoken in your community or globally, can significantly enhance your medical school application and future medical practice. In the United States, multilingual doctors are increasingly valuable. The BLS reported that over 10,000 employed doctors and surgeons in 2015 majored in a foreign language as undergraduates [1]. Foreign language as a “doctor major” emphasizes communication and cultural competency.
The choice of language can also be strategic. Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, French, Arabic, Russian, Hindi, and Portuguese are often cited as top languages for career advancement in various fields, including medicine, due to their global reach and prevalence.
Keep in mind that a foreign language major will likely require you to take additional science courses to meet pre-medical prerequisites. Some universities offer specialized courses like “Spanish for Healthcare” to bridge language skills with medical contexts. Typical foreign language coursework includes:
- Conversation in the chosen language
- Grammar and composition in the chosen language
- Literature in the chosen language
- Linguistics
- Writing
- Cultural studies
Exercise Science
If you’re passionate about sports medicine, physical therapy, sports psychology, athletic training, or rehabilitation, exercise science is a highly relevant “doctor major.” Many exercise science programs offer a pre-med concentration, specifically designed to ensure you complete the necessary coursework for MCAT success and medical school admission. Exercise science as a “doctor major” is ideal for those interested in the musculoskeletal and movement aspects of medicine. Coursework often includes:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Anatomy and physiology
- Nutrition
- Foundations of Exercise science
- Kinesiology
Medical School Requirements: Looking Beyond Your Major
While your “doctor major” is important, medical schools take a holistic approach to admissions. It’s crucial to understand that medical schools are less concerned with the name of your major and more focused on the competencies you demonstrate.
Regardless of your chosen major, ensure you fulfill the specific course prerequisites of the medical schools you are interested in. These typically include a significant number of science courses with laboratory components, and may also include math, humanities, and social sciences. Regularly consulting with your academic advisor is essential to plan your schedule effectively each semester and confirm you are on track to meet these requirements.
Choosing the Right Doctor Major For You
Beyond just fulfilling medical school requirements, select a “doctor major” that genuinely aligns with your interests and career aspirations. If the thought of four years of intensive biology study doesn’t excite you, but you’re deeply interested in psychology, don’t force yourself into a major that doesn’t resonate with you.
Remember, a significant portion of medical school applicants major in biological sciences. Choosing a different major, while still demonstrating your dedication to healthcare and meeting prerequisites, can help you stand out from the competition.
Your undergraduate major can also shape your future medical career. For example, if you aspire to work in community health or address healthcare disparities, a public health or economics major could provide valuable foundational knowledge. If you’re interested in sports medicine, exercise science might be an ideal fit. While many students enter medical school without a specific specialty in mind, choosing a major aligned with your general interests can provide a sense of direction and deeper engagement with your studies.
Why the Right Doctor Major Matters
The myth that “pre-med” or a science major is the only path to medical school is simply untrue. While science coursework is vital, modern medicine demands well-rounded doctors. Medical professionals need strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to understand patients within complex social and cultural contexts. Exploring diverse subjects outside of pure science can cultivate these essential qualities.
When selecting your “doctor major,” prioritize both fulfilling medical school prerequisites and pursuing a field of study that genuinely sparks your passion. This approach will not only prepare you academically but also contribute to your personal and professional growth, making you a more compelling and well-rounded medical school applicant and future doctor.
Next Steps: Explore Your Medical Interests
If you’re certain about a future in medicine but unsure about the specific area that excites you most, consider exploring online courses to sample different aspects of healthcare.
Platforms like Coursera offer a wealth of relevant courses, such as Anatomy, Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us, AI for Medicine, and Introduction to the Biology of Cancer. These online courses, often offered by leading universities, allow you to learn at your own pace and gain introductory knowledge in diverse medical fields. They can provide valuable insights, helping you refine your interests and potentially inspire your “doctor major” choice or even solidify your commitment to a healthcare career.
Another instance of the Coursera Plus promotional image, reinforcing the message of accessible, diverse learning opportunities for students exploring different career paths in medicine.
Choosing the right “doctor major” is a significant step toward your medical career goals. Remember that diverse paths lead to medicine. Select a major that aligns with your passions while fulfilling medical school requirements, and embark on your journey to a rewarding career in healthcare.
