Pre-Health Pathways
College of Health
There is more than one path to become a doctor or health care professional
Your future in health care starts here
If you're interested in becoming a doctor, nurse, physical therapist or other type of health care professional, the College of Health is a great place to start.
There is more than one path to become a doctor or health care professional and our majors and dedicated pre-med/health advisor will help you achieve your health care professional goals.
Explore pre-health profession pathways
Pathways are guides that show you how to pursue health careers with College of Health majors. They are not official degree programs.
Pre-medicine pathway
Medicine is about caring for the health and well-being of individuals, and our majors connect the sciences to the people you’ll eventually serve as a doctor.
Chiropractic FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a chiropractor
Nursing FAQ
What it takes to become a registered nurse and how to get your BSN or A-BSN.
Occupational Therapy FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming an occupational therapist.
Occupational Therapy Assistant FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming an occupational therapy assistant
Optometry FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming an optometrists
Physical Therapy FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a physical therapist
Physical Therapist Assistant FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a physical therapist assistant
Physician Assistant FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a physician assistant
Podiatry FAQ
Information and FAQs for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a podiatrist
Pre-Nursing FAQ
Information and FAQ for Oregon State University students interested in becoming a nurse.
What is the best major for pre-med or health professions?
For most health professions, your specific major isn't as important as pre-requisite courses and hands-on experience. This gives you freedom to major in something you enjoy and find inspiring.
College of Health majors that are a great fit for medical school and health professions:
Kinesiology – Pre-Therapy and Allied Health
Study exercise science and movement's impact on health. The pre-therapy and allied health degree option prepares you for medical school and health careers such as athletic training, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
Nutrition – Nutrition and Health Sciences
Understand the vital role nutrition plays in preventive care and treatment. The nutrition and health sciences degree option is a great stepping stone on your way to a physician assistant program, medical school or pharmacy school.
Public Health
Develop a proactive mindset in medicine. Become a physician who prioritizes preventing health issues and caring for an individual’s well-being instead of just treating symptoms.
Human Development and Family Sciences
Understanding human behavior and development is crucial for health care professionals. With a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, you'll be prepared to work with diverse patient populations.
65%
of OSU pre-med students are admitted to medical school, compared to 40% nationally
“My interest in studying applied science and human health drove me to pursue a degree in the College of Health. I particularly appreciate how the college provides a smaller academic community within a large state school, its various research opportunities and support for students aspiring to work in health care.”
Diane Koopmann
Nutrition-Nutrition and Health Sciences, ’24
Our graduates have been accepted to the following medical schools
Albany Medical College
Columbia University
Drexel University
Oregon Health and Sciences University
St. Louis University
Temple University
Tulane University
University of Arizona
University of Colorado
University of San Diego
Vanderbilt University
Western University of Health Sciences
and more
6 reasons to choose Oregon State’s College of Health for pre-health professions
1. 65% of our pre-med students are admitted to medical schools all across the United States, compared to about 40% nationally.
2. Acceptance rates into health professional programs — such as nursing, athletic training, physical or occupational therapy and more — are at or above average.
3. You’ll stand out from other applicants thanks to majors and practical experience that provides you with unique pathways to medical school or health professional programs.
4. A dedicated advisor will help you achieve your pre-med and pre-health professional goals.
5. You’ll gain a holistic approach that considers the overall health and well-being of individuals, reflecting your passion for helping people and helping you stand out in entrance interviews.
6. Our students have been admitted to competitive medical and professional programs at OHSU, Vanderbilt, Western University, University of San Diego and more.
Medical and professional health careers pursued by our students
Biology, chemistry and BioHealth sciences aren’t the only majors for a career in medicine.
You could be an athletic trainer or physical therapist helping an athlete get back to the movement they love. Or you could promote healthy habits and prevent illness as a physician assistant.
Past OSU College of Health students are now:
- Athletic trainers
- Nurses
- Occupational therapists
- Physicians - allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO)
- Physician assistants
- Physical therapists
All require graduate/professional education or additional certifications/credentials to qualify for employment.
Contact us
Peer advisors
If you have questions regarding classes, student clubs or campus, our peer advisors would love to chat. Call or email them for advice.
Mikaela Swaim
Student Outreach and Support Coordinator
For questions about the program, application process or requirements, contact our COH recruitment team.