Favorites
Facebook
Twitter
Digg
Del.icio.us
Technorati
Reddit
Newsvine
StumbleUpon
MySpacePre-Professional Programs
Most students enrolling at St. Mary's University who are interested in pursuing health care careers choose to major in biological sciences. Students interested in careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, chiropractic, podiatry, veterinary medicine, allied health professions, or nursing may pursue those careers with a degree from St. Mary's University.
Students may apply for admission to a number of different cooperative partnership programs. Partnerships exist between St. Mary's University and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) in the following fields of study: physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, nursing, medicine, and dentistry. If accepted into one of the partnership programs, students can transfer to UTHSCSA after completing program-specific prerequisite coursework and meeting other program-specific requirements.
Chiropractic
Students who wish to pursue a career in chiropractic may major in any discipline, but must complete chiropractic school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to chiropractic school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing chiropractic major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Both the B.A. and the B.S. degrees fulfill the science prerequisite coursework for most chiropractic schools.
Prerequisite CourseworkPrerequisite coursework for chiropractic school generally includes the following:
| General Biology I & II = 8 hours |
| Anatomy & Physiology are not required but are preferred. |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| English = 6 hours |
| General Psychology = 3 hours |
| Social Sciences/Humanities = 15 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the chiropractic school(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in chiropractic look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Chiropractors adjust the spinal column and other articulations of the body to correct abnormalities of the human body believed to be caused by interference with the nervous system. They examine the patient to determine the nature and extent of disorder. They manipulate the spine or other involved area. Chiropractors may utilize supplementary measures, such as exercise, rest, water, light, heat, and nutritional therapy.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Diagnose health problems by reviewing patients' health and medical histories, questioning, observing and examining patients, and interpreting x-rays.
- Maintain accurate case histories of patients.
- Perform a series of manual adjustments to the spine, or other articulations of the body, to correct the musculoskeletal system.
- Evaluate the functioning of the neuromuscular skeletal system and the spine using systems of chiropractic diagnosis.
- Obtain and record patients' medical histories.
- Advise patients about recommended courses of treatment.
- Consult with and refer patients to appropriate health practitioners when necessary.
- Analyze x-rays to locate the sources of patients' difficulties and to rule out fractures or diseases as sources of problems.
- Counsel patients about nutrition, exercise, sleeping habits, stress management, and other matters.
- Arrange for diagnostic x-rays to be taken.
Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.
Dental
Students who wish to pursue a career in dentistry may major in any discipline, but must complete dental school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to dental school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing dentistry major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Both the B.A. and the B.S. degrees fulfill prerequisite coursework for most dental schools.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I & II = 8 hours |
| 2 Advanced biology courses = 8 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Biochemistry I = 4 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| English = minimum 6 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the dental school(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in dentistry look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
General dentists diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums and related oral structures. They may treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting vitality of teeth.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Administer anesthetics to limit the amount of pain experienced by patients during procedures.
- Use masks, gloves and safety glasses to protect themselves and their patients from infectious diseases.
- Examine teeth, gums, and related tissues, using dental instruments, x-rays, and other diagnostic equipment, to evaluate dental health, diagnose diseases or abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatments.
- Formulate plan of treatment for patient's teeth and mouth tissue.
- Use air turbine and hand instruments, dental appliances and surgical implements.
- Diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth, gums and related oral structures, and provide preventive and corrective services.
- Advise and instruct patients regarding preventive dental care, the causes and treatment of dental problems, and oral health care services.
- Treat exposure of pulp by pulp capping, removal of pulp from pulp chamber, or root canal, using dental instruments.
- Write prescriptions for antibiotics and other medications.
- Design, make, and fit prosthodontic appliances such as space maintainers, bridges, and dentures, or write fabrication instructions or prescriptions for denturists and dental technicians.
Medical
Students who wish to pursue a career in medicine may major in any discipline, but must complete medical school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to medical school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing medicine major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Both the B.A. and the B.S. degrees fulfill the prerequisites for most medical schools.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I & II = 8 hours |
| 2 advanced Biology courses = 8 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Biochemistry I = 4 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| English = minimum 6 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the medical school(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in medicine look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
General practice medical doctors diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries that commonly occur in the general population.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Prescribe or administer treatment, therapy, medication, vaccination, and other specialized medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease or injury.
- Order, perform, and interpret tests and analyze records, reports, and examination information to diagnose patients' condition.
- Monitor patients' conditions and progress and reevaluate treatments as necessary.
- Collect, record, and maintain patient information, such as medical history, reports and examination results.
- Explain procedures and discuss test results or prescribed treatments with patients.
- Advise patients and community members concerning diet, activity, hygiene,and disease prevention.
- Refer patients to medical specialists or other practitioners when necessary.
- Direct and coordinate activities of nurses, students, assistants, specialists, therapists and other medical staff.
- Coordinate work with nurses, social workers, rehabilitation therapists, pharmacists, psychologists and other health care providers.
- Deliver babies.
Nursing
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.
Occupational Therapy
Students who wish to pursue occupational therapy may major in any discipline, but must complete prerequisite coursework for occupational therapy programs. Some occupational therapy programs require completion of a bachelor's degree prior to entry. Some programs allow students to enter without a bachelor's degree. Many St. Mary s students pursuing occupational therapy major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Students may also take advantage of St. Mary s Health Professions Early Acceptance Program (HEAP) for occupational therapy. Please see the Health Profession Partnerships section for more information on this program.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I = 4 hours |
| Anatomy = 4 hours |
| Physiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I = 4 hours |
| General Physics I or Kinesiology = 4 or 3 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| General Psychology = 3 hours |
| Developmental Psychology = 3 hours |
| Abnormal Psychology = 3 hours |
| Intro Sociology = 3 hours |
| Anthropology or upper level Sociology = 3 hours |
| Technical Writing = 3 hours |
| Medical Terminology = 1 hour |
| Electives = 9 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one occupational therapy program to another. Always check the website of the program(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in occupational therapy look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Occupational therapists assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that help restore vocational, homemaking, and daily living skills, as well as general independence, to disabled persons.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Plan, organize, and conduct occupational therapy programs in hospital, institutional, or community settings to help rehabilitate those impaired because of illness, injury or psychological or developmental problems.
- Test and evaluate patients' physical and mental abilities and analyze medical data to determine realistic rehabilitation goals for patients.
- Select activities that will help individuals learn work and life-management skills within limits of their mental and physical capabilities.
- Evaluate patients' progress and prepare reports that detail progress.
- Complete and maintain necessary records.
- Train caregivers how to provide for the needs of a patient during and after therapy.
- Recommend changes in patients' work or living environments, consistent with their needs and capabilities.
- Develop and participate in health promotion programs, group activities, or discussions to promote client health, facilitate social adjustment, alleviate stress and prevent physical or mental disability.
- Consult with rehabilitation team to select activity programs and coordinate occupational therapy with other therapeutic activities.
- Plan and implement programs and social activities to help patients learn work and school skills and adjust to handicaps.
Optometry
Students who wish to pursue a career in optometry may major in any discipline, but must complete optometry school prerequisite coursework. Some schools of optometry require a bachelor s degree for admission into the school. Other schools allow students without a bachelor s degree provided they have completed the prerequisite coursework and earned at least 90 semester credit hours. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing optometry major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Both the B.A. and the B.S. degrees fulfill the prerequisites for most optometry schools.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I & II = 8 hours |
| Anatomy = 4 hours |
| Physiology = 4 hours |
| Microbiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Biochemistry I = 4 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Calculus I = 4 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| Psychology = 3 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the optometry school(s) you to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in optometry look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Optometrists diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. They examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. Optometrists may prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Examine eyes, using observation, instruments and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities such as glaucoma or color blindness.
- Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
- Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses and other vision aids.
- Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
- Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements and safety factors.
- Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
- Consult with and refer patients to ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
- Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataract and laser vision correction, with pre- and post-operative care.
- Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.
- Provide vision therapy and low vision rehabilitation.
Pharmacy
Students who wish to pursue a career in pharmacy may major in any discipline, but must complete pharmacy school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to pharmacy school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing pharmacy major in biology or chemistry and earn either a B.A. or B.S. degree.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I = 4 hours |
| Anatomy = 4 hours |
| Physiology = 4 hours |
| Microbiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Pre-Calculus I = 4 hours |
| Calculus I = 4 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the pharmacy school(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in pharmacy look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Pharmacists compound and dispense medications following prescriptions issued by physicians, dentists, or other authorized medical practitioners.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Review prescriptions to assure accuracy, to ascertain the needed ingredients, and to evaluate their suitability.
- Provide information and advice regarding drug interactions, side effects, dosage and proper medication storage.
- Assess the identity, strength and purity of medications.
- Maintain records, such as pharmacy files, patient profiles, charge system files, inventories, control records for radioactive nuclei, and registries of poisons, narcotics and controlled drugs.
- Compound and dispense medications as prescribed by doctors and dentists, by calculating, weighing, measuring and mixing ingredients, or oversee these activities.
- Plan, implement, and maintain procedures for mixing, packaging, and labeling pharmaceuticals, according to policy and legal requirements, to ensure quality, security and proper disposal.
- Teach pharmacy students serving as interns in preparation for their graduation or licensure.
- Advise customers on the selection of medication brands, medical equipment and health-care supplies.
- Provide specialized services to help patients manage conditions such as diabetes, asthma, smoking cessation or high blood pressure.
- Collaborate with other health care professionals to plan, monitor, review, and evaluate the quality and effectiveness of drugs and drug regimens, providing advice on drug applications and characteristics.
Physical Therapy
Students who wish to pursue physical therapy may major in any discipline, but must complete prerequisite coursework for physical therapy programs. Some physical therapy programs require completion of a bachelor s degree prior to entry. Some programs allow students to enter without a bachelor s degree. Many St. Mary s students pursuing physical therapy major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Students may also take advantage of St. Mary s Health Professions Early Acceptance Program (HEAP) for physical therapy. Please see the Health Profession Partnerships section for more information on this program.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I = 4 hours |
| Anatomy = 4 hours |
| Physiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| General Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| General Psychology = 3 hours |
| Developmental Psychology = 3 hours |
| Intro Sociology = 3 hours |
| Speech = 3 hours |
| Medical Terminology = 1 hour |
| Electives = 15-20 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one physical therapy program to another. Always check the website of the program(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in physical therapy look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Physical therapists assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and decrease or prevent deformity of patients suffering from disease or injury.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Perform and document an initial exam, evaluating data to identify problems and determine a diagnosis prior to intervention.
- Plan, prepare and carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain and prevent physical dysfunction in patients.
- Record prognosis, treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enter information into computer.
- Identify and document goals, anticipated progress and plans for reevaluation.
- Administer manual exercises, massage or traction to help relieve pain, increase patient strength, or decrease or prevent deformity or crippling.
- Evaluate effects of treatment at various stages and adjust treatments to achieve maximum benefit.
- Test and measure patient's strength, motor development and function, sensory perception, functional capacity, and respiratory and circulatory efficiency and record data.
- Instruct patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home.
- Confer with the patient, medical practitioners and appropriate others to plan, implement and assess the intervention program.
- Review physician's referral and patient's medical records to help determine diagnosis and physical therapy treatment required.
Physician Assistant
Students who wish to pursue physician assistant studies may major in any discipline, but must complete prerequisite coursework for physician assistant programs. Many physician assistant programs require completion of a bachelor's degree prior to entry. Some programs allow students to enter without a bachelor's degree. Most St. Mary s students pursuing physician assistant studies major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Students may also take advantage of St. Mary s Health Professions Early Acceptance Program (HEAP) for physician assistant. Please see the Health Profession Partnerships section for more information on this program.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I = 4 hours |
| Anatomy = 4 hours |
| Physiology = 4 hours |
| Microbiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I = 4 hours |
| Statistics = 3 hours |
| General Psychology = 3 hours |
| Electives = 25 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one physician assistant program to another. Always check the website of the program(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career as a physician assistant look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Physician assistants provide healthcare services typically performed by a physician, under the supervision of a physician. They conduct complete physicals, provide treatment, and counsel patients. They may, in some cases, prescribe medication. Physician assistants must graduate from an accredited educational program for physician assistants.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Examine patients to obtain information about their physical condition.
- Interpret diagnostic test results for deviations from normal.
- Obtain, compile and record patient medical data, including health history, progress notes and results of physical examination.
- Make tentative diagnoses and decisions about management and treatment of patients.
- Prescribe therapy or medication with physician approval.
- Administer or order diagnostic tests, such as x-ray, electrocardiogram and laboratory tests.
- Perform therapeutic procedures, such as injections, immunizations, suturing and wound care, and infection management.
- Instruct and counsel patients about prescribed therapeutic regimens, normal growth and development, family planning, emotional problems of daily living, and health maintenance.
- Provide physicians with assistance during surgery or complicated medical procedures.
- Visit and observe patients on hospital rounds or house calls, updating charts, ordering therapy and reporting back to physician.
Podiatry
Students who wish to pursue a career in podiatry may major in any discipline, but must complete podiatry school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to podiatry school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing podiatry major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology. Both the B.A. and the B.S. degrees fulfill the prerequisites for most podiatry schools.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I & II = 8 hours Advanced Biology coursework is recommended but not required |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Biochemistry I is recommended but not required |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| English = 6 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the podiatry school(s) to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in podiatry look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Diagnose and treat diseases and deformities of the human foot.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Treat bone, muscle, and joint disorders affecting the feet.
- Diagnose diseases and deformities of the foot using medical histories, physical examinations, x-rays, and laboratory test results.
- Prescribe medications, corrective devices, physical therapy, or surgery.
- Surgically treat conditions such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, tumors, shortened tendons, bunions, cysts, and abscesses.
- Advise patients about treatments and foot care techniques necessary for prevention of future problems.
- Refer patients to physicians when symptoms indicative of systemic disorders, such as arthritis or diabetes, are observed in feet and legs.
- Correct deformities by means of plaster casts and strapping.
- Make and fit prosthetic appliances.
- Perform administrative duties such as hiring employees, ordering supplies, and keeping records.
- Educate the public about the benefits of foot care through techniques such as speaking engagements, advertising, and other forums.
Respiratory Therapy
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua.
Veterinary Medicine
Students who wish to pursue a career in veterinary medicine may major in any discipline, but must complete veterinary school prerequisite coursework and earn at least 90 semester credit hours before applying to veterinary school. The majority of St. Mary s students pursuing veterinary medicine major in biology and earn either a B.A. or B.S. in biology.
Prerequisite Coursework| General Biology I = 4 hours |
| Genetics = 3 hours |
| Microbiology = 4 hours |
| General Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| Biochemistry I & II = 8 hours |
| General Animal Science = 3 hours |
| Animal Nutrition = 3 hours |
| Physics I & II = 8 hours |
| Calculus = 4 hours OR Statistics = 3 hours |
| English = 3 hours |
| Literature = 3 hours |
| Technical Writing = 3 hours |
| Speech = 3 hours |
Please note: Prerequisite coursework can vary from one school to another. Always check the website of the veterinary school(s) you to which you wish to apply for an accurate list of their prerequisite coursework.
What does a career in veterinary medicine look like?
Summary: (Source: O*NET Online)
Veterinary doctors diagnose and treat diseases and dysfunctions of animals. They may engage in a particular function, such as research and development, consultation, administration, technical writing, sale or production of commercial products, or rendering of technical services to commercial firms or other organizations. This includes veterinarians who inspect livestock.
Tasks: (Source: O*NET Online)
- Treat sick or injured animals by prescribing medication, setting bones, dressing wounds, or performing surgery.
- Examine animals to detect and determine the nature of diseases or injuries.
- Provide care to a wide range of animals or specialize in a particular species, such as horses or exotic birds.
- Inoculate animals against various diseases such as rabies and distemper.
- Advise animal owners regarding sanitary measures, feeding, general care, medical conditions, and treatment options.
- Operate diagnostic equipment such as radiographic and ultrasound equipment, and interpret the resulting images.
- Educate the public about diseases that can be spread from animals to humans.
- Collect body tissue, feces, blood, urine, or other body fluids for examination and analysis.
- Attend lectures, conferences, and continuing education courses.
- Euthanize animals
Dental Early Acceptance Program (DEAP)
St. Mary s University Department of Biological Sciences has partnered with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) Dental School to offer a 3+4 program known as the Dental Early Acceptance Program, or DEAP. The DEAP program allows St. Mary s students pursuing dentistry to gain early acceptance into the UTHSCSA Dental School and spend only 3 years at St. Mary s in pursuit of a bachelor s degree.
Students accepted into the DEAP program will follow a 3 year degree plan at St. Mary s which fulfills the prerequisite coursework for the UTHSCSA Dental School as well as degree requirements for a BA in Combined Sciences from St. Mary s. After completing the 3 year degree plan, the student will matriculate into the UTHSCSA Dental School. The BA Combined Sciences degree will be awarded by St. Mary s after the student successfully completes the 1st year of coursework at the Dental School. The student will earn a Doctor of Dental Science (DDS) degree from the UTHSCSA Dental School after successfully completing the required coursework at the Dental School.
The DEAP is intended for first-time freshmen at St. Mary s who are serious about pursuing dentistry. To be eligible for the DEAP program, the student must:
- Be a first-time freshman at St. Mary s who has earned at least 12 semester credit hours but not more than 30 semester credit hours at St. Mary s; and
- Earn at least a 3.4 GPA at St. Mary s.
Applications and supporting documents for the DEAP are submitted through the Pre-Health Professions office at St. Mary s. To apply for the program, the student must complete and submit the following by March 1st of the freshman year:
- The DEAP application
- Official college/university transcripts
- Personal statement
- Letter of recommendation for the DEAP from the Pre-Health Professions Advisor or the faculty advisor at St. Mary s.
Although volunteer and shadow hours are not REQUIRED for acceptance into the DEAP program, it is strongly RECOMMENDED that the student engage in these experiences to strengthen his/her application and increase his/her understanding of the field of dentistry.
If accepted into the DEAP program, the student must:
- Complete the remaining prerequisite courses for dental school;
- Maintain an overall GPA and science GPA of at least 3.4;
- Take the DAT exam during the junior year and achieve a minimum score of 18 on the Academic Average section; and
- Submit an official application to the dental school through TMDSAS during the junior year.
Holly Harrison
Pre-Health Professions Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 436-3241
hharrison@stmarytx.edu
Rosemarie Wahl, Ph.D.
Professor of Biological Sciences
Pre-Dental Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 431-8064
rwahl@stmarytx.edu
Health Professions Early Acceptance Program (HEAP)
St. Mary s University Department of Biological Sciences has partnered with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) School of Health Professions to offer the Health Professions Early Acceptance Program (HEAP) for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies. The HEAP program is a dual degree program which allows St. Mary s students to gain early acceptance into the UTHSCSA School of Health Professions and spend only 3 years at St. Mary s in pursuit of a bachelor s degree.
Students accepted into the HEAP will follow a 3 year degree plan at St. Mary s which fulfills the prerequisite coursework for the health professions program of their choice at UTHSCSA as well as degree requirements for a BA in Combined Sciences from St. Mary s. After completing the 3 year degree plan, the student will matriculate into the UTHSCSA School of Health Professions. The BA Combined Sciences degree will be awarded by St. Mary s after the student successfully completes the 1st year of coursework in the health professions program at UTHSCSA. The student will earn a professional degree from the UTHSCSA School of Health Professions after completing the required coursework in the health professions program.
The HEAP is intended for first-time freshmen at St. Mary s who are serious about pursuing physical therapy, occupational therapy, or physician assistant studies. Students interested in the HEAP will undergo a review process at St. Mary s after the freshman year which will determine eligibility to apply for the HEAP. To be eligible for, the student must:
- Be a first-time freshman at St. Mary s who has earned at least 26 semester credit hours (but not more than 60), including at least 14 hours in science and math, at St. Mary s;
- Earn at least a 3.25 GPA at St. Mary s; and
- Accrue at least 20 hours working, volunteering, shadowing, or observing in a corresponding clinical setting (hours collected during high school are acceptable).
Applications and supporting documents for the HEAP are submitted through the Pre-Health Professions office at St. Mary s. To apply for the program, the student must complete and submit the following by September 1st of the sophomore year:
- The HEAP application
- Copies of college/university transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation (details of the personal statement, resume, and letters of recommendation are outlined in the program application)
If accepted into the HEAP program, the student must:
- Complete the remaining prerequisite courses required by the health professions program;
- Maintain the GPA required by the health professions program (usually at least a 3.25 or above);
- Complete any additional requirements for the health professions program such as volunteering or shadowing;
- Pass a criminal background check that is required of all students in the UTHSCSA School of Health Professions; and
- Submit an official UTHSCSA application and official college or university transcripts along with an application fee to UTHSCSA prior to matriculating into the health professions program.
Holly Harrison
Pre-Health Professions Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 436-3241
hharrison@stmarytx.edu
Lucien Manchester, Ph.D.
Professor of Biological Sciences
Allied Health Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 431-4320
lmanchester@stmarytx.edu
Facilitated Admissions for South Texas Scholars (FASTS)
St. Mary s University Department of Biological Sciences has partnered with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) School of Medicine to offer a facilitated admissions program into the UTHSCSA School of Medicine. The Facilitated Admissions for South Texas Scholars (FASTS) program allows St. Mary s students pursuing medicine to gain early acceptance into the UTHSCSA School of Medicine and take part in a rigorous summer premedical academy to prepare for the MCAT exam and success in medical school.
The FASTS program is intended for first-time freshmen at St. Mary s who are serious about pursuing medicine. To be eligible for the FASTS program, the student must:
- Be a United States citizen or a permanent resident AND a Texas resident; and
- Possess the academic abilities and personal qualities that predict success as a medical student and physician.
Academic Factors:
- Though there is not a GPA requirement to be eligible to apply for FASTS, competitive applicants will have a St. Mary s GPA of 3.25 or higher.
- Competitive applicants will have taken both General Biology I and General Chemistry I during their first semester at St. Mary s.
- High school overall GPA and science GPA will be considered, as well as SAT & ACT scores.
Personal Factors:
- Students are encouraged to engage in clinical experiences during high school and the first semester at St. Mary s. These experiences allow the student to gain exposure to the medical field and increase knowledge of clinical procedures and current issues relevant to the industry.
- Students are encouraged to participate in community service during high school and the first semester at St. Mary s. These experiences demonstrate a commitment to improving the community and a passion for helping those in need – characteristics a good physician will possess.
- Students should build relationships with faculty members during the first semester at St. Mary s. Science faculty members nominate students for the FASTS program and write letters of recommendation for applicants.
- Students should take advantage of the services offered at St. Mary s Career Services Center to sharpen their interview skills, and polish their resume and personal statement.
Applications and supporting documents for the FASTS program are submitted through the Pre-Health Professions office at St. Mary s. To apply for the program, the student must complete and submit the following by February 1st of the freshman year:
- The FASTS program application
- Official high school transcript and SAT/ACT scores
- Official college/university transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
(details of the personal statement and letters of recommendation are outlined in the program application)
If accepted into the FASTS program, there are conditions the student must meet to remain in the program and be eligible for acceptance into the UTHSCSA medical school:
- The student must complete a bachelor s degree program at St. Mary s with an overall GPA and science GPA of 3.25 or above. AP coursework will NOT be considered fulfillment of science requirements.
- In the spring of their junior year, qualified participants who meet the premedical coursework requirements will take the MCAT and those who obtain a ratio of science GPA/MCAT scores of 3.25/28, 3.5/26 or 3.75/24 or better will be eligible for acceptance to medical school following an interview by the admissions committee. In addition, participants cannot have a score of less than 7 on any sub-section of the MCAT.
- Participants must satisfy all requirements of the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) application process including a letter of recommendation from the Health Professions Advisory Committee at St. Mary s, have record of ethical behavior while a pre-medical student, and demonstrate a continuing commitment to study medicine.
Holly Harrison
Pre-Health Professions Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 436-3241
hharrison@stmarytx.edu
Tim Raabe, Ph.D.
Biological Sciences Department Chair
Allied Health Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 431-4321
traabe@stmarytx.edu
Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP)
The Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) is a special program created by the Texas Legislature to support and encourage highly qualified, economically disadvantaged Texas resident students pursuing a medical education. Funded through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, JAMP is a unique partnership between all eight Texas medical schools and sixty-five public and private four-year undergraduate institutions. St. Mary s is one such private institution. Students accepted into JAMP are assured admission into one of the eight medical schools in Texas provided they meet requirements of the program while completing their undergraduate education. JAMP students also participate in two rigorous summer internships provided by JAMP to prepare for the MCAT exam and success in medical school.
JAMP is intended for students who are serious about pursuing medicine. To be eligible for JAMP, the student must:
- Be a Texas resident;
- Enter St. Mary s no later than the first fall semester after graduating high school;
- Complete 27 semester credit hours during the freshman year at St. Mary s (only 3 of which may be AP hours);
- Have the ability to participate in two summer internships provided by JAMP;
- Achieve an overall GPA and science GPA of 3.25 at St. Marys; and
- Be Pell grant eligible or have an Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) of up to $8000 (calculated from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid [FASFA]).
Students interested in JAMP are encouraged to:
- Engage in clinical experiences during high school and the freshman year at St. Mary s. These experiences allow the student to gain exposure to the medical field and increase knowledge of clinical procedures and current issues relevant to the industry.
- Participate in community service during high school and the freshman year at St. Mary s. These experiences demonstrate a commitment to improving the community and a passion for helping those in need – characteristics a good physician will possess.
- Build relationships with faculty members during the freshman year at St. Mary s. Science faculty members nominate students for the FASTS program and write letters of recommendation for applicants.
- Take advantage of the services offered at St. Mary s Career Services Center to sharpen their interview skills, and polish their resume and personal statement.
Applications and supporting documents for JAMP are submitted through the Pre-Health Professions office at St. Mary s. To apply for the program, the student must complete and submit the following by October 15th of the sophomore year:
- The JAMP application (completed online on the JAMP website)
- Student Aid Report (SAR) (obtained from the FAFSA application)
- Official high school transcript and SAT/ACT scores
- Official college/university transcripts
- Personal statement (uploaded with the JAMP application on the JAMP website)
- Resume (uploaded with the JAMP application on the JAMP website)
- Two letters of recommendation accompanied by JAMP Evaluation forms (one from St. Mary s JAMP Faculty Director and one from a St. Mary s faculty)
If accepted into JAMP, there are conditions the student must meet to remain in the program and be eligible for acceptance into a Texas medical school. JAMP Students must:
- Complete a bachelor s degree program at St. Mary s with an overall GPA and science GPA of 3.25 or above. All medical school prerequisite coursework must be completed at St. Mary s;
- Take the MCAT exam no later than the Spring semester of the junior year and achieve an overall score of 23 with no sections less than 7;
- Successfully complete the JAMP summer internships after the sophomore year and junior year;
- Receive satisfactory evaluations from faculty overseeing summer internships at medical schools;
- Meet with the JAMP Faculty Director at least once per month each academic year;
- Provide updated transcripts of college coursework and grades each semester to the St. Mary s JAMP Faculty Director; and
- Satisfy all requirements of the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS) application process including a letter of recommendation from the Health Professions Advisory Committee at St. Mary s, and submit all application materials by July 1st after the junior year.
Holly Harrison
Pre-Health Professions Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 436-3241
hharrison@stmarytx.edu
Tim Raabe, Ph.D.
Biological Sciences Department Chair
Allied Health Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 431-4321
traabe@stmarytx.edu
Nursing Early Acceptance Program (NEAP)
St. Mary s University Department of Biological Sciences has partnered with the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) School of Nursing to offer the Nursing Early Acceptance Program (NEAP). The NEAP program is a dual degree program which allows St. Mary s students to gain early acceptance into the UTHSCSA School of Nursing and spend only 3 years at St. Mary s in pursuit of a bachelor s degree.
Students accepted into the NEAP will follow a 3 year degree plan at St. Mary s which fulfills the prerequisite coursework for nursing at UTHSCSA as well as degree requirements for a BA in Combined Sciences from St. Mary s. After completing the 3 year degree plan, the student will matriculate into the UTHSCSA School of Nursing. The BA Combined Sciences degree will be awarded by St. Mary s after the student successfully completes the 1st year of coursework in the nursing program at UTHSCSA. The student will earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from the UTHSCSA School of Nursing after completing the required coursework in the nursing program.
The NEAP is intended for first-time freshmen at St. Mary s who are serious about pursuing nursing. Students interested in the NEAP will undergo a review process at St. Mary s after the freshman year which will determine eligibility to apply for the NEAP. To be eligible, the student must:
- Be a first-time freshman at St. Mary s who has earned at least 26 semester credit hours (but not more than 60), including at least 14 hours in science and math, at St. Mary s;
- Earn at least a 3.5 science GPA and a 3.3 overall GPA at St. Mary s; and
- Demonstrate, in a written personal statement, an understanding of the nursing profession and a desire to pursue the field.
Applications and supporting documents for the NEAP are submitted through the Pre-Health Professions office at St. Mary s. To apply for the program, the student must complete and submit the following by September 1st of the sophomore year:
- The NEAP application
- Copies of college/university transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
(details of the personal statement, resume, and letters of recommendation are outlined in the program application) - Complete the remaining prerequisite courses required by the UTHSCSA School of Nursing;
- Maintain a 3.5 science GPA and a 3.3 overall GPA;
- Achieve a passing score (70%) on the TEAS V standardized exam;
- Be up-to-date on all immunizations including all Hep A&B series prior to matriculating into the School of Nursing;
- Receive CPR certification;
- Submit an official UTHSCSA School of Nursing application and official college or university transcripts along with an application fee during the junior year prior to matriculating into the School of Nursing; and
- Pass a criminal background check prior to matriculating into the School of Nursing. Contacts:
If accepted into the NEAP, the student must:
Holly Harrison
Pre-Health Professions Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 436-3241
hharrison@stmarytx.edu
Veronica Contreras-Shannon, Ph.D.
Professor of Biological Sciences
Pre-Nursing Adviser
St. Mary s University
(210) 431-4324
vcontrerasshann2@stmarytx.edu
