Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What major should I pursue?
There is no one answer to this question.  Although the vast majority of students who apply to health profession schools have majored in a biological subject, this is NOT a requirement.  Your choice of major is best determined by considering what subjects you enjoy and what career you would be happy to pursue if you do not become a health professional.  Whatever major you choose you will need to successfully complete certain required science courses which will normally include:

One year of general biology with lab
Biology 172 (5 units), Cellular Basis of Life
Biology 273 (5 units), Genetics and Molecular Biology

One year of chemistry with lab
Chemistry 120A (5 units), General Chemistry
Chemistry 120B (5 units), General Chemistry

One year of organic chemistry with lab
Chemistry 301A (3 units), Organic Chemistry
Chemistry 301B (3 units), Organic Chemistry
Chemistry 302 (2 units), Organic Chemistry Lab

One year of physics with lab
Physics 211 (3 units), Elementary Physics
Physics 211L (1 unit), Elementary Physics Lab
Physics 212 (3 units), Elementary Physics
Physics 212L (1 unit), Elementary Physics Lab

One semester of calculus
Math 130 or 150A (each 4 units), A Short Course in Calculus or Calculus

Since requirements vary with different programs and schools, students are strongly advised to speak with the Health Professions coordinator to determine your individual study plan.   Certain specific courses in addition to the above ones may be required or be strongly recommended, including BIOL 362, Mammalian Physiology, BIOL 302, Microbiology, and CHEM 421 Biological Chemistry.

How do I prepare for standardized tests?
Each health professional school usually requires a standardized test such as the MCAT for medical school, the GRE for vet school and the DAT for dental school.  You should plan to take the test at least 15-18 months before you wish to matriculate at the professional school. To best prepare for these tests you should have completed at least the core courses in science since this is the foundation material not only for the tests but also for the medical science curricula.  In addition all tests have a verbal and/or writing component so it is to your advantage to have completed at least a year of college English (Eng 101 and 301) prior to taking the test. Many students take a prep course such as Kaplan or Princeton Review and we often have reduced rates for these courses.

What is your students’ success rate in gaining entry to medical school?
Historically more than 85% of the students who are supported by the Health Professions Committee are successful in gaining entry.

Do you consider applicants who wish to go to veterinary or dental school?
Yes.

What is the cost of tuition per year?
For a full time undergraduate student, tuition totals $2,331.00. For a part time undergraduate student the total cost of attending Cal State Fullerton is $1,485.00.

Non-Resident Price
UNDERGRADUATE (Full-time = 12 units) Total basic registration fees per semester $2,331.00
$372 per unit X 12 units per semester = $4,464.00
Total Fees per semester = $6,795.00
Total Fees per year = $13,590.00

The CSU system still has the lowest fees among its comparison institutions across the country. A table of comparison is available at http://www.calstate.edu/PA/info/fees-comparison-institution.shtml

What is the normal course load per semester?
12-16 units

What items do I need for my file to be complete?
The follow steps are needed to complete your file:
1. Open a File Form
2. Admission test results
3. Copy of your Application
4. Letters of Recommendation
5. Transcripts
6. Autobiography
7. Personal Statement
8. List of Schools
9. GPA calculation sheet
10. Signed Waiver
11. Photo Waiver
12. A 2x2 photograph
13. Fee paid

I am filling out my AMCAS Application and I came to a section that asks what type of packet I will be submitting. Which of these choices do I choose?
If you received committee support, you will mark committee packet and put Dr. Christina Goode’s name as the letter writer. You do not need to list any additional letter authors, just Dr. Goode.