Pre-Health Professions: Transfer Associate

The Pre-Health Professions: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the sciences and related disciplines necessary for pursuing health-related careers. This program is designed for students who aspire to transfer to four-year institutions to complete their bachelor's degrees in fields such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary sciences, nursing, or other health sciences. The curriculum emphasizes core courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, ensuring students develop a strong scientific understanding essential for advanced study in health professions. In addition to science coursework, students have opportunities to engage in related experiential learning and pre-professional advising, which support their academic and career goals.

The program offers a well-structured pathway that prepares students for successful transfer to four-year universities with robust pre-health or pre-medicine tracks. Students will learn study skills, time management, and other academic strategies to excel in rigorous courses and competitive health programs. The faculty members are dedicated to supporting transfer students through individualized advising, helping them select appropriate coursework aligning with the requirements of their transfer destination institutions. Students also gain access to resources such as health career workshops, resume writing assistance, and mock interviews, which enhance their readiness for entrance into competitive health programs.

Upon completing the associate degree and fulfilling transfer requirements, students are equipped with the academic credentials and experience to apply to college programs across Pennsylvania, the United States, and beyond. The transfer associate program is ideal for cost-conscious students who wish to complete their general education and foundational sciences locally before moving on to advanced degrees elsewhere. This pathway not only reduces the overall cost of college education but also offers a seamless transition to four-year universities with strong pre-health programs.

Harrisburg Area Community College collaborates with numerous partner institutions to facilitate smooth credit transfer and ensure students’ academic progress aligns with their career ambitions. The program emphasizes student success, providing academic advising, tutoring, and mentoring to help students achieve their academic goals. Graduates of this program benefit from a solid educational base, professional advising, and the opportunity to enter competitive health-related programs or directly pursue entry-level healthcare positions. Overall, the Pre-Health Professions: Transfer Associate program supports students in building a strong foundation for a rewarding career in healthcare and health sciences, opening doors to numerous opportunities in the ever-growing field of health professions.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3 
ENGL 102 English Composition II  3 
COMM 101 Effective Speaking  3 
Core A Elective  3 
Core C Elective (Math or Science)  3 
Core C Elective (Science)   3 
General Education Transfer Elective  3 
Physical Education & Wellness  1 

Major Requirements     
CIS 105 Intro to Software of Business or higher  3   
MATH 103 College Algebra (Core C Math)  3   
PSYC 101 General Psychology (Core B)  3   
SOCI 201 Intro to Sociology (Core B & D)  3   
*Program Electives  27   

This curriculum is designed to prepare the student to:

Transfer with the skills required for success in a Baccalaureate degree program in the sciences

Discuss and apply scientific principles and concepts

Apply the scientific method to solve scientific problems

Demonstrate communication of results both orally and through written reports

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Examine and apply a broad understanding of the political, social, environmental, economic, and cultural systems of the world

Illustrate how to interact in a multi-cultural or cross-cultural environment

Apply the principles of research, organization, and delivery for the preparation and presentation of speeches

Construct outlines that include an introduction, a well-organized body, effective transitions, source citations, and a conclusion

Demonstrate critical reading and critical thinking skills by integrating the ideas of others through the analysis and synthesis of information

This curriculum is designed to prepare the student to:

Transfer with the skills required for success in a Baccalaureate degree program in the sciences

Discuss and apply scientific principles and concepts

Apply the scientific method to solve scientific problems

Demonstrate communication of results both orally and through written reports

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Examine and apply a broad understanding of the political, social, environmental, economic, and cultural systems of the world

Illustrate how to interact in a multi-cultural or cross-cultural environment

Apply the principles of research, organization, and delivery for the preparation and presentation of speeches

Construct outlines that include an introduction, a well-organized body, effective transitions, source citations, and a conclusion

Demonstrate critical reading and critical thinking skills by integrating the ideas of others through the analysis and synthesis of information

The Pre-Health Professions: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for admission into health-related bachelor's degree programs at four-year institutions. This program provides foundational coursework in sciences and liberal arts, ensuring that students develop a strong academic base necessary for future study in fields such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, allied health, and other healthcare professions. The curriculum typically includes courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and communication, as well as courses in social sciences and humanities that are essential for developing well-rounded healthcare professionals.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from the college's dedicated academic advising, which helps them select appropriate courses aligned with their intended transfer institution and career goals. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, often including laboratory work and experiential learning opportunities. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in health-related extracurricular activities, community service, and internships to strengthen their applications for competitive professional schools.

Harrisburg Area Community College maintains articulation agreements with numerous four-year colleges and universities, facilitating a seamless transfer process for students completing the associate degree. These agreements specify courses that are transferable and satisfy prerequisites at the partner institutions, thus saving students time and money. The program also prepares students for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), PCAT, and other standardized exams required for entry into professional health programs.

Furthermore, the program’s faculty members are experienced in healthcare education, providing mentorship and academic support tailored to pre-health students. The college's campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, libraries, and study centers that support student success. Graduates of the Pre-Health Professions: Transfer Associate program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and academic credentials necessary to transfer to four-year institutions and pursue health professional degrees, ultimately aiming to serve in diverse areas within the healthcare industry.

The program underscores the importance of community engagement, cultural competence, and ethical practice in healthcare, preparing students to meet the needs of diverse populations. It also emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning, which are essential qualities for future healthcare providers. Through academic advising, career counseling, and support services, Harrisburg Area Community College helps students navigate the challenges of pre-health education and successfully transition to their next educational step.