Because they must possess vast knowledge of the makeup of living matter, many health services and med students focus on biology in their undergraduate studies. Most universities and colleges offer a general biology program, and some schools divide the discipline into different majors, including evolutionary biology, biotechnology, molecular biology and biomedical engineering. Schools with highly acclaimed programs in biology include Northwestern University and Harvard College.
Chemistry is another popular discipline among the more scientifically minded students. In addition to general chemistry education, those interested in the scientific method and laboratory work focus on topics like forensics, the environment, physics, inorganic materials and organic chemistry. Princeton University and Stanford University both offer extensive program options in the chemistry field.
Pharmaceutical science studies appeal to undergraduates with an interest in how synthetic materials work to cure disease. The same students may also gravitate toward a program in pharmacology, bacteriology, genetics or epidemiology. The University of Michigan's College of Pharmacy is a prospect for students who choose pharmaceutical science or a related topic as their focus.
Biology, chemistry and pharmacology students wish to remedy human health problems, while pre-vet, wildlife management, animal studies and zoology majors hope to do the same for animals. The University of Minnesota, Texas A&M University and the University of Arizona all have departments catering to those interested in animal health care.
In addition to coursework in natural science, nursing students take a closer look at the health care industry, communication and how to cater to different people's needs in different environments. Nursing majors fulfill practicum programs at clinics, hospitals or long-term care facilities in order to determine their area of expertise and where they will work best in the future. Schools with extensive nursing programs include Georgetown University, Seattle University and Regis University.