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 for their overall GPA as well as their science GPA 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: completion of high school chemistry, one quarter of college chemistry, or completion of a chemistry prep course, earning a minimum grade of B (3.00), and completion of enough math to qualify to take Calculus 1 their first term in the program or qualify to take the class via placement exam;. High school Calculus or AP credit for Calculus is not sufficient to fulfill this requirement. Students who completed at least one term of Calculus in their undergraduate program are exempt from this requirement if the course was taken 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, and meetings with health care professionals. Students are also encouraged to attend the Health Professions Career Expo, which is held each spring.
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