Health Science Programs

For Course Offerings and Program Requirements see The Hiram College Catalog.

   1. Which courses are for first year students who wish to explore new areas of interest, but have no clear intent to major in this area?

      This question is not really relevant for students interested in going to medical school, vet school or pursuing a career

      in a health-care field. However, acquiring a solid background in mathematics (College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, and Statistics or Calculus) and taking courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics will allow the student to explore related majors.
   2. What is the desirable course work a prospective major/minor should complete by the end of their first year and the end of their second year?

      Ideally, students will be ready to enter calculus-level math sometime before beginning their second year. They will also complete the chemistry 120 and 121 sequence, and one of the introductory biology courses (141 or 142). In their second year, these students will complete the organic chemistry sequence (chem. 220 and 320), the other introductory biology course, and biology 230.

      While such a sequence is rich in science, it provides the greatest flexibility for students who wish to pursue a major outside of the science.
   3. What is the minimum a prospective major/minor must do by the end of their first and second year?

      At a minimum, students should be at the pre-calculus level of math by the end of their first year, and have completed at least one of the following courses (BIOL 141, BIOL 142, or CHEM 120. By the end of their second year, they must complete both the introductory biology sequence and chemistry sequence (BIOL 141/142 and CHEM 120/121).

      Students wishing to enter medical school, veterinary school, and many other healthcare professional schools will find their junior year packed with BIOL 230, CHEM 220, CHEM 320, PHYS 113 (or 213) and PHYS 114 (or 214) if they take the minimum during their first two years at Hiram.

      Students who are particularly weak in math and science, or those who become interested in a medical career late in the Hiram residency may want to consider attending a post-baccalaureate program after graduation in order to finish their science courses and prepare for the appropriate entrance exam.
   4. How important is it for a student with some interest in majoring in your area to make contact with a member of your department?

      It is very important that students make good decisions early in their college experience. Very good grades in required courses are essential. If there is any doubt about the appropriateness of a decision, please contact a member of the Health Sciences Board.
   5. What are the major pitfalls a student should avoid during their first year and how can an advisor help the student to avoid them?

      Working at less than full capacity at any time.

      Fulfilling general education requirements instead of starting the science sequences.

      Not seeking advice when unsure about the proper action to take.

      Not considering alternative career possibilities.