You must complete science classes before applying to medical school. The University of Pennsylvania requires all applicants to complete biology, chemistry and physics, but doesn't specify how many units should be earned in each subject. The Drexel University College of Medicine (largest medical student enrollment of any private medical school in the nation) and the University of Pittsburgh require applicants to complete two semesters of general chemistry with a lab component, two semesters of organic chemistry with a lab component, two semesters of biology with a lab component and two semesters of physics with a lab component. The Penn State Hershey College of Medicine requires one year of biology with a lab, one year of both inorganic and organic chemistry with a lab, one year of physics and one semester of behavioral science.
Many medical schools in Pennsylvania require that students display some mathematical aptitude. The University of Pennsylvania specifies that applicants must understand statistics, but doesn't specify a required math class. The Drexel University College of Medicine doesn't require any math. The Penn State Hershey College of Medicine requires that applicants complete one year of college-level mathematics and have a background in calculus, statistics and probability.
Some schools will require that you complete additional coursework in and outside of science. Drexel University requires two semesters of English and recommends applicants take courses in genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and other high-level science courses. In addition, the it recommends classes in social sciences, philosophy and biology. The University of Pennsylvania encourages students to complete history, anthropology, ethics, political science and economics coursework.
Those interested in medical school must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT will examine a student's problem-solving, writing and critical thinking skills. The test will identify a student's knowledge of scientific concepts and principles. Scores are reported in the areas of verbal reasoning, biological sciences, physical sciences and writing.
It is important to earn an A, or at least a B, in your science coursework. Students who entered medical school at Temple University in 2010 had an average GPA of 3.62 in science, and 3.67 overall. Their average MCAT score was 31.22. Penn State medical students also earned an average GPA of 3.69. University of Pennsylvania medical students earned an average GPA of 3.81. You also don't have to major in a science-related field. Students who, for example, want to major in business, can take the required science classes as electives, or in addition to their major classes.