Program Overview
Northwestern Health Sciences University's Post Baccalaureate Prehealth program is designed for students to create an academic plan and complete only the classes they need to prepare for a successful application to medical school. Class sizes are small, typically less than 30 students per class, and most courses are taught by faculty with a relevant terminal degree. Courses are designed to address topics on the MCAT® exam and to provide a firm grounding in the foundational sciences. Northwestern provides detailed and personalized premed advising from experienced advisors as well as opportunities for shadowing, volunteering, and leadership experience. They have active student groups that offer networking, guest speakers, mock MCAT exams, and service activities. To learn more, visit their website.
Questions and Answers
- Does your program have a special focus?
Our program allows students to create their own curriculum based on their individual needs. Most of our students fit in more than one traditional focus area.
- Is your program degree- or certificate-granting?
No. We do not require students to take courses that they don’t need to reach their goals. By not requiring a specific set of coursework, students have as much flexibility as possible.
- How long does it take to complete your program?
Completion of all premed prerequisites can be accomplished in 12-15 months. Some students need only one course, while others take all prerequisites and several recommended courses.
- Does your program require part-time or full-time attendance?
No. Attendance requirements are very flexible.
- Are classes offered in the evening, on weekends, or online?
We offer accelerated chemistry lectures and labs in the evenings, and remote options are available for all courses.
- Is there a deadline to apply?
There is not a set deadline for each term; however, we recommend applying before registration opens for the upcoming term.
- Are there fees to apply to your program?
There is a $50 application fee. We do provide waiver codes when students attend events.
- Does your program offer shadowing or promote interaction with physicians?
We provide opportunities to obtain shadowing experiences at a variety of local clinics and hospitals. We also have student groups that sponsor guest speakers, many of whom are physicians or medical school students.
- How does your program support students with the medical school application process?
We offer detailed individual advising from experienced premed advisors. Students have a premed advisor from the beginning of the program and advising continues for as long as needed.
10. After graduating from your program, what percentage of students matriculate to medical school?
In the 2024 application cycle, 85% of our premed applicants with a >3.0 GPA and [a] >500 MCAT [score] were accepted to medical school.
11. Is your program linked to any medical schools? If so, what school(s)?
No.
12. What is the cost of your program?
Our cost is $460/credit for our courses. Lab courses typically include a $75 lab fee.
13. Is financial aid available to qualifying students?
Most students can obtain federal financial aid for one year of coursework in our program.
14. Does your program accept DACA students?
Yes.
15. Does your program accept international students?
No. We do not issue I-20 visas for this program.
A Student’s Perspective: Mary O'Rourke
I graduated from my undergraduate program with a bachelor's degree in dance. Only later did I realize that my true calling and passion lies in medicine; however, I had no idea how to begin my pursuit of a career change. After some preliminary research, I set up a meeting with an academic advisor at Northwestern Health Sciences University. I walked away from that meeting equipped with knowledge and a plan, and I felt an immediate sense of care and investment in my dream. The faculty at NWHSU is attentive, involved, and engaged in every student's journey. I found that many other students enrolled in the program were also fellow career changers, and I formed friendships that I know will last throughout my medical career. Not only does NWHSU provide the opportunity to fulfill all premedical academic requirements, but they also host a wide array of workshops, panels, and guest speakers. All these events and activities are intended to orient students toward the process of applying to medical school. I had so many resources at my fingertips, and my mentor made herself available to me as I went through the application cycle. I received feedback on my application materials, coaching for interviews, and genuine support as I accepted an offer to my dream school. I would not be where I am today, gearing up to matriculate into medical school, if it were not for the NWHSU community. I am proud to be an NWHSU alumni!