Here is what you will find for each profession listed below:

  • Education and Job Prospects
  • Required Coursework
  • Directory of Schools
  • Entry Exams Required
  • Application Process
  • Ways HPA Supports Preparation
  • Online Resources

Dentists provide preventive care, diagnose and treat oral diseases, and perform procedures that improve both health and quality of life. They play a critical role in detecting conditions such as oral cancer and systemic diseases that appear in the mouth. Advances in technology and research—such as dental implants, imaging, and salivary diagnostics—make dentistry an innovative and rewarding field. Dentists can work in private practice, academic settings, research, public health, or international health, and many enjoy flexibility and independence in their careers. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) completed in a 4‑year doctoral program after a bachelor’s degree.

Degree Cost: $250K- $400K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your dental education.

2024 Median Pay: $179K/year, varies by state, practice setting, and experience. Higher earnings common in private practice and specialties. 

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a dentist.” Check out other Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Dentist

COURSEWORK

Required courses usually include:

  • 2 Semesters of Biology with lab
  • 2 Semesters of General Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Organic chemistry with lab
  • 1 Semester of Biochemistry 
  • 2 Semesters of Physics with lab
  • 2 Semesters of English or English composition

In addition, some schools require or recommend

  • Anatomy & Physiology sequence highly recommended
  • 1 Semester of Psychology
  • 1 Semester of Statistics and/or Calculus
  • Additional courses in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, etc

Requirements can vary among dental schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application. See also ADEA's list of prerequisite coursework and preparation tips.

schools

Printed book: ADEA Official Guide to Dental Schools ($35; you can see a copy in the HPA Office; there are several pages describing each dental school and their requirements).

ADEA's list of participating schools listed by state.

Entry exams

DAT: Offered most days of the year at various testing centers in the US. It lasts 5 hours and 15 minutes and consists of four parts (natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning).  For more information see: ADA DAT.

application

Application can be submitted around June 1 for AADSAS and around May 15 for TMDSAS. Transcript verification will take several weeks. Apply early in the application cycle. First decisions may be made on December 15. 

hpa resources

Library: DAT exam books to loan and copy of ADEA Official Guide to Dental Schools

Preparation Advising: group and individual sessions for up to 5 years after graduation. Begin your dentistry journey by first joining the Duke’s Predental Society, a student-led organization that will be your primary hub for support, events, peer connections, and preparation resources. Through the Predental Society you will connect with the advisor, Dr. Martha Ann Keels (marthaann.keels@duke.edu). Your assigned HPA advisor is also available for additional guidance on course selection and Duke-specific opportunities.

Application support: Essays review, institutional letter packet, and mock interviews. 

RESOURCES online

Nurses provide direct patient care, coordinate treatment, and educate patients. They work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, with roles ranging from bedside care to advanced practice. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession. 

education and job prospect

Degree: ABSN programs take 12–24 months to complete. Master of Nursing can take up to 2 years. Duke's School of Nursing offers a 4+1 pathway where you begin coursework for a Master in Nursing in your senior year of college through the DUSON Bridge.

Degree Cost: $50K - $90K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $90K to $145K depending on specific role and experience. 

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a nurse.” Check out the Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Nurse.

COURSEWORK

For Registered Nurse Licensure [usually Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) or Master of Nursing (MN) programs], required courses include:

  • 1 Semester of Human Anatomy and Physiology     
  • 1 Semester of Microbiology
  • 1 Semester of Statistics
  • 1 Semester of Human Development or Developmental Psychology          
  • 1 Semester of Nutrition

Requirements can vary among nursing schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application.

schools

American Association of Colleges of Nursing School Directory.

Entry exams

The GRE is required for some schools.

application

Programs deadlines vary by school. Many applications open in late summer or fall and close between October and January. Many programs utilize the Nursing Common Application System (Nursing CAS); others require direct application to program. Apply early to allow time for transcript collection and program-specific reviews.

HPA Resources

Preparation Advising: group and individual sessions for up to 5 years after graduation. Visit HPA's advising page to find your assigned advisor.

Application support: Essays review and mock interviews. 

RESOURCES online

 

Occupational Therapists are healthcare providers who work with individuals across the lifespan, as well as families, communities and populations, who are in situations that limit their access to and participation in necessary and desired occupations. The term “occupations” refers to anything that people want to do, need to do, or are expected to do. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Master’s (2–3 years) or Doctorate (3–4 years) in Occupational Therapy completed after a bachelor’s degree. Duke offers an Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program.

Degree Cost: $70K - $150K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $ 98K/year, varies by setting such as schools, hospitals, or home health. Therapists work in a wide range of settings including community and social care, medical, and education settings.

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of an occupational therapist.” Check out the Key Factors to Consider for a Career as an Occupational Therapist.

COURSEWORK

  • 2 Semesters of Human Anatomy and Physiology with lab
  • 1 Semester of Abnormal Psychology        
  • 1 Semester of Statistics  

Additional helpful courses include:

  • 1 Semester of Human Development or Developmental Psychology            
  • 1 Semester of Social Sciences or Systems (Sociology, anthropology, public health)               
  • 1 Semester of Modes of Reasoning (ethics, philosophy, research methods)             
  • 1 Semester of Human Development or Developmental Psychology            

In addition, some schools may require or recommend:

  • 1 Semester of Biology with lab
  • 1 Semester of General Chemistry with lab
  • 1 Semester of Medical Terminology
  • 1 Semester of Physics
  • 1 Semester of English Composition/Writing
  • 1 Semester of Oral Communication
  • 1 Semester of Pathophysiology

Requirements can vary among Occupational Therapy schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application.

schools

American Occupational Therapy Association School Directory.

Entry exams

The GRE is sometimes required, though it's increasingly optional or waived.

application

Applications are submitted through OTCAS, which generally opens in July. School deadlines vary widely, with many falling October-January. Since OTCAS verification can take a few weeks, early submission is recommended. 

HPA Resources

Students considering occupational therapy will connect with Dr. Tomeico Faison at tomeico.faison@duke.edu to learn about the profession and connect with students in the Duke’s OT doctoral program for guidance on overall preparation and professional expectations. Your assigned HPA advisor is also available for additional guidance on course selection and Duke-specific opportunities.

RESOURCES online

 

Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients, and ensure safe drug use. They work in retail, hospitals, and research settings. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) completed in a 4‑year professional program after a bachelor’s degree.

Degree Cost: $140K - $220K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $ 137K/year, varies by state, practice setting, and experience. Hospital and clinical roles often pay more than retail. 

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a pharmacist.” Check out the Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Pharmacist

REQUIRED COURSEWORK

  • 2 Semesters of General Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Organic Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Biology with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Physics with lab
  • 1 Semester of Biochemistry
  • 1 Semester of Microbiology with lab
  • 1–2 Semesters of Anatomy & Physiology with lab
  • 1 Semester of Statistics
  • 1 Semester of Calculus
  • 2 Semesters of English and/or Writing

Some schools also require courses in behavioral science, economics, and public speaking

Requirements can vary among pharmacy schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application.

SCHOOLS

Pharmacy College Application System School Directory. 

ENTRY EXAM

Most pharmacy programs do not require any entry exam. Some will accept other exam scores if you have already taken one, but you do not need to take any entry exam. Admissions for pharmacy schools have shifted toward GPA, prerequisites, interviews, experiences, and holistic review.

APPLICATION

Apply through PharmCAS, which opens in mid-July and closes June 30 of the following year. Many schools have priority deadlines in the fall and final deadlines in winter or early spring. Submit early to avoid processing delays.

HPA RESOURCES 

Preparation Advising: Group and individual sessions for up to 5 years after graduation. Visit HPA's advising page to find your assigned advisor.

Application support: Essays review and mock interviews.

RESOURCES ONLINE

Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and promote health. They can specialize in areas like surgery, pediatrics, or podiatry, and often lead healthcare teams. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession. 

MD (Doctor of Medicine): Train to become a physician who diagnoses, treats, and prevents illness across a wide range of patient populations and medical specialties.

DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine): Train to become a physician who provides full-scope medical care while emphasizing a whole-person approach to health and wellness.

DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine): Train to become a physician specializing in the medical and surgical care of conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower extremity.

education and job prospect

Degree: 3-4 years of medical school plus 3-7 years of residency for MD/DO. 3 years of surgical residency for DPM.

Degree Cost: MD $286K-$390K. DO $225K-$240K, and DPM $165K-175K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: MD and DO range from $300K+ while DPM range in the $250K. Varies by state, practice setting, and experience.

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a physician.” Check out the Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Physician.

required coursework

  • 2 Semesters Biology with lab
  • 2 Semesters General Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters Organic Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters Physics with lab
  • 1 Semester Biochemistry              
  • 1 Semester Statistics       
  • 1 Semester Calculus        
  • 2 Semesters English and/or Writing          
  • 1 Semester Psychology   
  • 1 Semester Sociology     

Some schools require more than 2 semesters of biology. Appropriate options would include advanced courses in Cell Biology or Genetics, Microbiology, Anatomy/Physiology, or Immunology. Consult with your assigned prehealth advisor if you need help deciding.

Requirements can vary among medical schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. The AAMC Premedical Coursework Chart is a useful tool to check which schools accept AP credits. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application. A balanced application will include successful completion of prerequisite required courses and a bachelor’s degree, along with experiences that demonstrate competencies for entering medical schools. 

Taking all four years to prepare for medical school is common. Currently more than 75% of Duke students will apply at the end of their senior year (or later); this is also a national trend. The median age of applicants entering medical schools is about 24.  

Preparation for MD and DO schools has many “it depends” situations. Start working with your assigned prehealth advisor early to develop a personalized plan, understand admissions expectations, avoid common pitfalls.

schools

MD: AAMC Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR) for most allopathic programs in the US and Canada. 

DO: Choose DO US Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine

DPM: ExplorePod Schools and Colleges of Podiatric Medicine and AACPMAS

ENTRY EXAM

The MCAT is required for all three programs. Situational Judgement tests like Casper and PREview are becoming an increasingly common requirement. 

APPLICATION

MD: The AMCAS application opens in early May, with first submissions allowed late May. The bulk of verifications follow until the end of June when verified applications are transmitted to schools. After that, applications are submitted as verification is completed on a rolling-basis. Many schools have rolling admissions and require that applicants complete secondary applications. Interviews begin late August and offers start being released mid-October. Applicants are encouraged to check with their specific schools for specific dates. Early submissions are encouraged.  

DO: The AACOMAS application opens May 5 and closes June 12 the following year. Many osteopathic programs review applications on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

DPM: The AACPMAS application opens the first Wednesday in August. Priority review goes to applications submitted by March 1st, and the final deadline is June 30. Apply early to ensure timely verification.

TEXAS MD and DO SCHOOLS use the TMDSAS application system, which opens May 1 with submissions May 15. Applications are processed and verified on a rolling basis, making early submissions advantageous.

HPA RESOURCES

Library: MCAT exam books to loan

Preparation Advising: group and individual sessions for up to 5 years after graduation. Start working with your assigned prehealth advisor as soon as you know you want to pursue application to medical schools.

Application support: Essays review, institutional letter packet, and mock interviews. HPA offers a robust application curriculum to helps applicants feel well prepared for all the stages of the process.

RESOURCES ONLINE:

Physician Assistants/Physician Associates are skilled, licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. They are part of a medical team that works in collaboration with a physician, physician team, or medical practice. PAs are critical to increasing access to care, as they are often the only health providers in medically underserved areas and provide preventative care and important patient education. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Master of Physician Assistant Studies (or equivalent) completed in a 24–36‑month graduate program after a bachelor’s degree. Duke offers a Physician Assistant Program.

Degree Cost: $98K - $107K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $ 134K/year, varies by state, practice setting, and experience. Specialty, setting, and overtime can significantly increase earnings. 

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a physician assistant.” Check out other Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Physician Assistant.

required coursework

  • 2 Semesters of Anatomy & Physiology with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Biology with lab
  • 2 Semesters of General Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Organic Chemistry with lab
  • 1 Semester of Medical Terminology         
  • 1 Semester of Microbiology         
  • 2 Semesters of Psychology           
  • 1 Semester of Statistics  
  • 2 Semesters of English and/or Writing   

Some schools also require 1 semester of biochemistry.

Requirements can vary among dental schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application. PA Programs will also expect you to have several hours of direct patient care (on average around 1500 hours) and some schools will not allow scribing to count toward those hours. 

Schools

Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) Program Directory

entry exam

GRE. Students should review all information on the GRE section of CASPA before submitting an application to test.

application 

The CASPA cycle opens on the last Thursday in April and concludes on April 1 of the following year.

hpa resources

Preparation Advising: group and individual sessions for up to 5 years after graduation. Visit HPA's advising page to find your assigned advisor.

Application support: Essays review, institutional letter packet, and mock interviews.

resources online

Physical Therapists are licensed doctors who examine, diagnose, and treat movement dysfunction. They are movement experts who help people impacted by disease, injury, and disability. They use therapeutic exercise, modalities, assistive devices, patient education, and evidence-based research to treat patients, prevent movement loss, and promote wellness. Physical therapy specialties include cardiovascular & pulmonary, clinical electrophysiology, geriatrics, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pediatrics, sports, women's health, and wound management. They see patients throughout the health care system including hospitals, acute care facilities, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, home health, and private practice. You can also find physical therapists working in the military, corporate offices, public school systems, and sports and fitness facilities. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) completed in 2.5 to 3‑year doctoral program after a bachelor’s degree. Duke offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Degree Cost: $70K - $150K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $ 100K/year, varies by state, practice setting, and experience. Higher earnings in outpatient care, home health, and specialty practice.

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a physical therapist.” Check out the Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Physical Therapist.

required coursework

Most Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs in the US require the following courses:

  • 2 Semesters of Chemistry with or without lab
  • 2 Semesters of Biology with or without lab
  • 2 Semesters of Physics with or without lab
  • 2 Semesters of Anatomy & Physiology with or without lab
  • 1 Semester of Statistics  
  • 1–2 Semesters of Psychology        

Some schools also require courses in Calculus, English/Writing, Medical Terminology, Exercise Physiology, or Biochemistry.

Requirements can vary among physical therapy schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application.

schools

Most, but not all professional DPT programs, participate in PTCAS. Applicants who wish to apply to a nonparticipating PTCAS program must apply directly to the institution using the DPT program's local application. A list of participating programs and non-participating programs can be found on the PTCAS Program Directory.

entry exam

Many DPT programs require or recommend the GRE, although a growing number of them don’t. 

application

Submit application using PTCAS, which opens in mid-June. Programs have varying deadlines throughout the year, for many, admissions are typically rolling. Verification takes time, so apply as early in the cycle as possible. 

hpa resources 

Begin your PT journey by checking out Duke’s Pre-Physical Therapy Association, and connecting with Dr. Rosie Canizares at rcc4@duke.edu for guidance on overall preparation and professional expectations. Your assigned HPA advisor is also available for additional guidance on course selection and Duke-specific opportunities.

resources online

 

Veterinarians care for the health and well-being of animals, from dogs and cats to farm animals and exotic animals in zoos. They work in private practice, academic veterinary medicine, research, public policy, and government, and in businesses that provide animal related products. Shadowing and informational interviews are recommended to develop foundational knowledge of the profession.

education and job prospect

Degree: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) completed in a 4‑year doctoral program after a bachelor’s degree. Once receiving the DVM you need to pass a national certification exams. Some programs offer dual training in DVM and PhD, MBA, MPH and others.

Degree Cost: $200K - $300K. Factors impacting costs include public vs. private programs, in-state vs. out-of-state residency, program length, and geographic location. Cost of living expenses are not included in the figures presented here and can vary significantly by region. Learn how to finance your healthcare career.

2024 Median Pay: $ 125K/year, varies by state, practice setting, and experience. Companion animal, emergency, and ownership roles often pay more. 

Internet/AI search prompts: “A day in the life of a veterinarian.” Check out other Key Factors to Consider for a Career as a Veterinarian.

COURSEWORK

Required courses usually include :

  • 2 Semesters of Biology with lab
  • 2 Semesters of General Chemistry with lab
  • 2 Semesters of Organic Chemistry with lab
  • 1 Semester of Biochemistry
  • 2 Semesters of Physics with lab 
  • 2 Semesters of English or English composition 
  • 1 Semester of Statistics and/or 1 semester of Calculus

In addition, some schools require:

  • 1 Semester of Psychology
  • 1 Semester of Microbiology with lab
  • 1 Semester of Physiology lab not required
  • 1 Semester of Public Speaking
  • Additional courses in animal nutrition, humanities and social sciences and others. Animal nutrition courses are offered on-line or correspondence through NC State University, Purdue University, and Oklahoma State University.

Requirements can vary among veterinary schools. Check schools in your home state and any others you might apply to. AP credit may or may not be accepted. Learning about schools early in your preparation will help you know with clarity what courses, entry exams, and other activities you will need to prepare a strong application.

Admissions committees will look for a broad knowledge of veterinary medicine, so shadow and volunteer in several areas (try to get 3 different species) (e.g., general, small animal, large/food animal, equine, aquatic/marine mammals, wildlife, zoo animals) and settings (e.g., private practices, shelters, farms, and zoos). Some schools require a minimum of 200 hours of clinical/medical/research experience as well as direct animal experience. Note that the UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Program, for example, states that admitted applicants have an average of 1500 hours of veterinary experience (Most Duke students have over 800 veterinary hours, which often includes research). NC State requires a minimum of 400 veterinary hours which can include research and 100 animal hours (does not include pet ownership). University of Wisconsin requires 300 clinical veterinary hours and research is extra.

schools

Veterinary Medical school Admissions Requirement (VMSAR) School Directory.

ENTRY EXAM

The GRE is recommended or accepted by some schools. MCAT occasionally accepted as alternative to GRE. Situational Judgment test like Casper are becoming an increasingly common requirement.

APPLICATION

Applicants use VMCAS, which opens in January, with application submission typically beginning in May. The final deadline is mid-September. Verification can take a few weeks, applying well before the deadline is recommended.

Some schools (Colorado State, Michigan State, Oregon State, Texas A&M, U California Davis and Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine) use the Multiple Mini Interview. Most schools will expect three letters of recommendation (Cornell often wants more), with at least one from a veterinarian. Others may come from PhD scientist or MD with whom you have worked along with other mentors. Acceptances are sent out in November through March. For more information, see the VMCAS Application Information website.

HPA RESOURCES

Begin your veterinary journey by checking out Duke Pre-Veterinary Society, and connecting with Dr. Bernie Fischer at bernie.fischer@duke.edu for guidance on overall preparation and professional expectations. Your assigned HPA advisor is also available for additional guidance on course selection and Duke-specific opportunities.

RESOURCES