We work closely with Duke students and alumni who aspire to careers in the health professions. Our guidance and advice can help you tailor your undergraduate academics to best meet the qualifications of medical schools, dental schools, veterinary schools, and more. We provide guidance on coursework and activities from our team of Health Professions Advisors. Our goal is to make your successful as you prepare for your health professions career.
Are You A New Prehealth Student at Duke?
Be sure to review the "Prepare" section of our website for valuable information, including a year-by-year list of Action Items to help keep you on track!
Your Advisor
Health Professions Advising is available to all Duke undergraduates throughout your four years at Duke and after. Advising for first-year students and sophomores focuses on preparation, requirements, making plans, and exploring opportunities. Advising for juniors, seniors, and alumni focuses on final coursework, timing of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) or other exam, the application process, choice of schools, letters of recommendation and gap year opportunities.
WHAT CAN PREHEALTH STUDENTS DO AT DUKE?
Duke prehealth students have many different majors from Biology or Chemistry to English or History. Some study abroad in Costa Rica, Africa, China, and Spain. Others spend time at the Duke Marine Laboratory and study in the Duke in New York and Duke in LA programs. Some are athletes. Some become emergency medical technicians. Many volunteer or work in research labs and enroll in research independent studies, sometimes doing a senior honors thesis. Duke students tutor in local elementary schools, work in summer camps, volunteer in Duke Medical Center, participate in local, national and international service (often through DukeEngage), and contribute to university life. They fill their summers with explorations out of the classroom. Some students enter with no health care experience and few science courses. Others come to Duke already committed. There is a place for everyone at Duke, with opportunities at all levels.