Even if you have wanted to be a nurse since you were little, come to UMBC with an open mind.  Take time to investigate different allied health pathways.  Meet with advisors, take interest inventories, join multiple student organizations, anything that can help you explore and confirm which pathway is right for you.

While strong grades in the sciences are very important, you should not feel pressure to major in the sciences if you have a passion for another subject matter. Pre-Physical Therapy students can be Philosophy majors. Pre-Nursing students can be Visual Arts majors. Do what you love.  It is important to know that science course progressions can be different depending on your chosen major, so be sure to view STEM vs non STEM pathways for your prospective allied health program.

Don’t just follow requirements for one school.  Take time to research a variety of schools in your allied health pathway.  Make a list of common pre-reqs and meet often with your Academic Advisor to ensure timely and successful completion of those courses.

Gaining first-hand knowledge about the profession you wish to enter is crucial during these pre-professional years. Volunteer in a hospital, shadow a nurse. Learn about what professionals in your field are doing.

The Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising offers academic advising and application preparation for students who are planning to enter professional programs in Anesthesiology Assistant, Chiropractic, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, and Sonography.  The Pre-Medical & Pre-Dental Advising Office offers academic advising and application preparation for students who are planning to enter professional programs in Dentistry, Medicine, Optometry & Veterinary Medicine.  In addition to your professional school advisors, students will also work closely with academic advisors in their academic major.