URI offers a number of excellent academic programs appropriate for students interested in future careers in medicine, dentistry, or veterinary medicine. In general, the professional programs will accept almost any undergraduate major, although you must complete the required courses shown below (see also the List of Suggested Courses). Students are encouraged to participate in the University's Honors Program.

Most medical, dental and other professional schools require a minimum number of credits in English, biology, chemistry, physics, and math. In general, you must complete two semesters of English (WRT may be one), two semesters of biology, two semesters of general chemistry, two semesters of organic chemistry and two semesters of physics, all with laboratories. Most schools also require or prefer two semesters of calculus. These courses all help in preparation for admission tests such as the MCAT. In fact, we recommend that you take additional courses beyond the minimum requirements in these areas.

What should be your major at URI? It is your choice. Many medical schools recommend preparation in the liberal arts; all emphasize that you should have a broad background as an undergraduate. We suggest that you major in the subject that is most interesting to you, whether that is in the sciences, humanities or another area. The academic training at the University of Rhode Island provides students with an outstanding preparation that enables them to be highly competitive with students from other universities.

If you choose a science major such as Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Microbiology or Physics, some of the required premedical courses may be included in your major. If you choose a non-science major, you will take the premedical courses as electives. With careful planning, you can complete the major of your choice as well as the premedical requirements in four years. It is important to see the Health Professions Advisor early in your undergraduate program for advising on course selection and timing.

Some schools have additional requirements such as biochemistry, statistics or psychology. Advanced placement credit in the required courses is not accepted by many professional schools. We also suggest that you do not take the required courses in the summer, as some medical schools will not accept summer courses. All of your required course work should be taken at a four-year accredited college or university, not at a community college. We recommend that you check the web site of each school for additional requirements at least one year prior to application.