Degree Type: Associate of Science Degree, AS
Pathway: Health Sciences
More Options: Classroom Based, Remote Real-Time, Hyflex, Online, Hybrid
Program Length: 4 semesters
Location: Centennial, Rampart Range, Downtown Studio
Transferability: Transferable
Spring classes will fill quickly! Make sure you have a plan for Spring classes so you can register early and enroll in the classes you need to reach your goals. Need guidance? Our academic advising office is here to help!
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Examines the fundamental molecular, cellular and genetic principles characterizing plants and animals. Includes cell structure and function, and the metabolic processes of respiration and photosynthesis, as well as cell reproduction and basic concepts of heredity. The course includes laboratory experience.
Combines the basic theory of speech communication with public speech performance skills. Emphasis is on speech delivery, preparation, organization, support, and audience analysis and delivery.
Explores trends within events, peoples, groups, ideas, and institutions in Western Civilization from antiquity to 1650. This course focuses on developing, practicing, and strengthening skills historians use while constructing knowledge and studying a diverse set of narratives through perspectives such as gender, class, religion, and ethnicity.
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An Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science degree are the first two years of a four-year degree. Once a two-year degree is completed, you will transfer to a college or university that will provide you with the education required to earn a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree. If you pursue the 60 + 60 program in Colorado, you could enter a public Colorado university as a Junior.
In 2015, the MCAT changed content to reflect more education in the behavior and social sciences. Therefore we recommend that you pursue the Associate of Arts degree because multiple courses in these areas can be accommodated in the electives of an AA degree, while also embracing the many science and math courses that you need. While pursuing an Associate of Science degree seems the best and natural fit, keeping in mind the need to absorb social and behavior science courses is very important for your preparation toward the MCAT.
NOTE: It is important to develop relationships with your science faculty at PPSC and your 4-year college or university. You will need science faculty recommendations for your medical school applications. Work with them as well to discover opportunities for research partnerships
While science-oriented degrees are beneficial, you do not need to earn a science degree to get in to some medical schools. Generally, medical schools are looking for well-rounded individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to helping others. Yes, your GPA and the medical school entrance exam scores are important, but so also is your life experience. Find out more about how build your life experience and references.
Note: Many pharmacy schools do not require a full bachelors' degree.
Post-Bac Masters Degrees can provide Pre-Med students an excellent opportunity to better prepare for Medical School exams and applications. There are a variety of post-Bac degrees that typically are around one year in length. These programs provide intensive study in the sciences that are excellent for students who have a Baccalaureate degree in something other than science or who did not perform well in their undergraduate work.
CSU Fort Collins - Pre-Vet and Pre-Med tracks available
University of Colorado - Anchutz Campus
University of Colorado - Boulder
University of Wyoming Graduate Degrees
Check with other universities for a broader selection.
Depending on your target career, you will need to choose the appropriate entrance exam. Save money now for not only applications fees, but also for study tools and exam costs.
Getting into medical school is very competitive, so applying to as many schools as you are able can widen your pool of choices. Some of these may be outside of your desired state or city, but remember, you are going to medical school to learn to be a doctor. Then you can choose where to practice.
Medical residency is when you are practicing medicine under the supervision of a medical doctor. The length of your residency is depending on your choice of medical career. For example, being a neurosurgeon requires far more residency experience than a general practitioner.
The Association of American Medical Colleges, reported that in 2011, the “second most common educational experience, accounting for roughly one-third of (medical school) applicants (32.5%), was at a community college.” This article also states that most students accepted into medical school attended two or more colleges or universities. The study goes on to say that “across types of educational institutions differences exist in the ability to access important resources, such as knowledge of the application process, pre-medical educational programs, health-related work and voluntary experiences, and peers with similar aspirations—all things that might encourage a student to pursue a career in medicine.”
Because of these findings, it's clear that any student who may be considering a career in medicine get started at PPSC with the right information and accurate advising as soon as possible. See your Advising & Testing Health Sciences Advisor to keep current and on track.
