Medicine (Pre-Professional)

The Pre-Medicine program is the first two years of a Bachelor of Science program.This program is designed to meet the admission requirements of the Doctor of Medicine programs at both University of Alberta and University of Calgary.The Pre-Professional Medicine program is a minimum two full years of post-secondary study. You must maintain the required GPA to be considered for admission to Medicine. Competitive admission to professional programs requires a high grade point average. You should check with universities to be aware of specific admission requirements.

Field of study: Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies

The Medicine (Pre-Professional) program at Red Deer College provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamental sciences required for pursuing a medical degree. This program is designed to prepare students for entrance into professional medical schools by offering rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, complemented by opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and practical application of scientific principles. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking, laboratory skills, and a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, which are essential for success in medical studies.

In addition to core scientific courses, the program emphasizes the development of communication, teamwork, and ethical reasoning skills, preparing students to work effectively within diverse healthcare settings. Small class sizes and personalized instruction foster an engaging learning environment, encouraging active participation and collaboration among students and faculty. The program also provides guidance on the medical school admission process, including preparation for relevant standardized tests such as the MCAT, and offers opportunities for experiential learning through volunteering, shadowing, and participation in health-related community projects.

Students enrolled in the Medicine (Pre-Professional) program benefit from access to Red Deer College’s extensive resources, including modern science laboratories, libraries, and academic advising services. The program’s flexible scheduling options allow students to balance their coursework with other commitments, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive educational experience. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to transfer to various medical schools across Canada and abroad, as they possess the necessary academic background, practical experience, and professional skills to pursue advanced medical training.

Overall, the Medicine (Pre-Professional) program at Red Deer College offers a challenging and rewarding pathway for individuals committed to a career in medicine. It aims to cultivate knowledgeable, ethical, and compassionate future healthcare professionals who are prepared to meet the complex health needs of our communities. Whether students plan to continue their studies at a university or engage in health-related careers, this program provides a strong academic foundation and valuable insights into the medical field, setting the stage for achievement and success in their future healthcare endeavors.

The Medicine (Pre-Professional) program at Red Deer College requires prospective students to complete a series of prerequisite courses designed to prepare them for entry into medical schools. Applicants are expected to have completed a minimum of 60 semester hours of coursework, including essential subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Specific coursework typically includes introductory Biology with lab components, General Chemistry with lab, Organic Chemistry, College Physics, and Calculus or Statistics. Besides the foundational sciences, students are encouraged to engage in courses that develop communication, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning skills, which are integral to the medical profession.

Furthermore, applicants should maintain a competitive GPA, often above a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, reflecting strong academic achievement in completed coursework. Admission criteria may also consider relevant experiences such as volunteer work, shadowing physicians, research projects, or involvement in community service, demonstrating a commitment to healthcare and the community. Some programs recommend or require applicants to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), depending on the subsequent medical school requirements, although this is not mandatory for all undergraduate pre-professional programs at Red Deer College.

Students are advised to consult the specific medical schools they wish to apply to for their prerequisites and preferred coursework, as requirements may vary. The program emphasizes a comprehensive academic foundation paired with extracurricular activities, preparing students for competitive application processes to medical schools across Canada and beyond. Additionally, students are encouraged to engage with faculty and academic advisors early in their studies to ensure they meet all necessary prerequisites and strengthen their applications for health professional programs. It is important to note that while the Red Deer College program provides excellent preparation and foundational coursework, admission to medical schools remains highly competitive, and students should plan their academic and extracurricular activities accordingly.

The Medicine (Pre-Professional) program at Red Deer College offers several financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of funding sources to help manage the costs of tuition, textbooks, living expenses, and other related costs. The primary financing avenues include government financial aid programs, scholarships, bursaries, student-loan programs, and work-integrated learning opportunities.

Federal and provincial student loans are available for eligible students, providing low-interest borrowing options that can be deferred until after graduation. These loan programs aim to reduce financial barriers for students pursuing post-secondary education and typically require an application through provincial student aid agencies, where eligibility is assessed based on financial need, residence, and academic progress. In addition, the Government of Alberta offers various grants and bursaries designed to support students from diverse backgrounds, including those with demonstrated financial need.

Scholarships are available based on academic achievement, leadership potential, community involvement, or specific criteria such as Indigenous status or first-generation university attendees. These awards often do not require repayment and can significantly reduce the financial burden for students. Red Deer College provides a range of internal scholarships, and students are encouraged to apply early and maintain strong academic standing to increase their chances of receiving financial awards.

Work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities are also available for students enrolled in the program. These positions enable students to gain practical experience while earning income to contribute towards their educational expenses. The college collaborates with local employers and offers flexible job options that accommodate students’ academic schedules.

Additionally, students are advised to explore external funding options from private organizations, community foundations, and industry-specific scholarships relevant to health sciences and medicine. Many professional associations and health-related foundations sponsor scholarships and bursaries to encourage students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare fields.

Budget planning and financial literacy are important components of the student experience at Red Deer College. The college offers resources and workshops to help students develop effective financial management skills, including budgeting, saving, and understanding credit. Financial advising services are also available for personalized assistance to create comprehensive financial plans tailored to individual circumstances.

Students should start their financing planning early in their academic journey and consult the college’s financial aid office regularly to stay informed about new opportunities, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements. It is also advisable to apply for multiple funding sources to maximize financial support and reduce the burden of tuition and related expenses.

Overall, Red Deer College is committed to providing accessible and flexible financing options to support students in their pursuit of a Medical (Pre-Professional) education, recognizing that financial stability is integral to academic success and career development in the healthcare sector.

The Medicine (Pre-Professional) program at Red Deer College is designed to prepare students for admission to medical schools and other health-related professional programs. This program offers a solid foundation in sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics, along with courses in mathematics and social sciences to develop well-rounded applicants. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a thorough understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, which are essential for medical studies. Students engaged in this program have access to experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance tailored to future health professionals. Additionally, Red Deer College provides opportunities for experiential learning through labs, simulations, and potential internships or shadowing experiences, which can be advantageous when applying to competitive medical schools. The program is also designed to foster personal development, communication skills, and ethical awareness, all crucial qualities for a successful medical career. To enhance student success, the college offers academic support services, including tutoring, advising, and study workshops. The program is structured to align with prerequisites required by many medical schools in Canada, ensuring students are well-prepared for subsequent applications. While the program itself does not confer a medical degree, it serves as an essential stepping stone for students aiming to transfer into undergraduate programs in medicine or other health sciences at universities. Red Deer College's strategic location and community connections provide students with access to healthcare facilities, volunteering opportunities, and networking to strengthen their applications. Overall, the Medicine (Pre-Professional) program aims to nurture academically proficient, ethically minded, and socially responsible future healthcare professionals who are ready to continue their education and make meaningful contributions to the healthcare industry.