Certificate of Post-baccalaureate Pre-professional Health Studies

Rebecca K. Pazdral, MA, DEd, Academic and Pre-Health Advising Supervisor

Objectives

This program is focused on assisting individuals who have not already taken the science courses required for admission by health professions schools, and who may benefit from advice and assistance in preparation for a career in the health professions. Those interested in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, optometry, and physician assisting have participated successfully in the post-baccalaureate program at Seattle University.

Admission

The post-baccalaureate pre-health certificate program is open to applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited program. Applicants are expected to have a GPA of at least 3.00 from their undergraduate institution plus any post-baccalaureate course work taken prior to enrollment at Seattle University (or permission of the Pre-Health Advisor). In addition, applicants are required to demonstrate the following as part of their application: completion of high school chemistry or one quarter of college chemistry, earning a minimum grade of B (3.00), within 5 years prior to the term of matriculation in the certificate program; and completion of MATH 1021 and MATH 1022, or equivalent(s), earning a minimum grade of B (3.00) in each course, within 5 years prior to the term of matriculation in the certificate program.

Since our program is kept small, applicants must clearly communicate their intentions, motivation, and plans through the application process. Applicants will need to complete the Transfer Common Application and Supplemental Application, available through the Office of Admissions. Applicants will need to complete the undergraduate transfer application form and provide official transcripts of all college level course work and degrees. Additional materials, including a personal statement, resume, and anticipated academic plan, need to be submitted for an application to be considered complete. Applications must be received by March 1 to be considered for entrance the following fall quarter and November 1 for winter quarter.

This program is a good option for veterans and students utilizing VA education benefits. Students utilizing VA military education benefits should contact the Veterans Certification Officer via email (va@seattleu.edu) to discuss options and eligibility. Federal financial aid is only available in the form of unsubsidized loans for full time students. Loans are only available for 12 months of study. Students may need to pursue private loan funding. There are no grants or scholarships for post-baccalaureate studies. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Student Financial Services early in the application process to discuss their options. For the majority of students there are no grants or scholarships for this program and financial aid is limited to 12 months of unsubsidized loans. Many students must come up with out of pocket funds or secure private loans to help pay for this program.

Program

Students in the program are advised by the Pre-Health Advisor, take classes along with undergraduate students, and are welcome to participate in the Health Professions Evaluation process if they are applying to medical or dental schools. Post-baccalaureate students are encouraged to participate in activities coordinated by the Pre-Health Advisor and the Seattle University Pre-Health Club including service activities, field trips, and meetings with health care professionals. Students are also encouraged to attend the Health Professions Career Fair, which is held each spring.