Embarking on a career in medicine opens doors to a vast spectrum of opportunities, from direct patient care to crucial supporting roles in healthcare systems. Whether your interests lie in hands-on clinical practice, cutting-edge research, or community health initiatives, a solid pre-medical foundation is essential. At Holy Family Medical (part of Holy Family University), the Pre-Medicine track within the Biology program is meticulously designed to equip aspiring healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen fields.
Holy Family Medical’s Pre-Medicine Track: Preparing Future Healthcare Leaders
The Pre-Medicine program at Holy Family Medical understands the evolving landscape of medical education. Recognizing the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) updates to the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), our curriculum strategically incorporates targeted coursework in social and behavioral sciences. This ensures our students are well-prepared for the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section of the MCAT. Furthermore, acknowledging the heightened emphasis on biochemistry in the revised MCAT, Holy Family Medical now includes two comprehensive semesters of Biochemistry, along with a required Psychology semester and options for further social science exploration. This robust curriculum ensures our graduates are not just academically prepared but also possess a holistic understanding of the factors influencing health and well-being.
Diverse Medical Career Options with a Holy Family Biology Pre-Med Degree
A Biology degree with a Pre-Medicine focus from Holy Family Medical serves as a powerful springboard to a wide array of impactful healthcare careers. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in biological, biochemical, chemical, physical, social, and behavioral sciences – the bedrock of medical knowledge. Beyond meeting the prerequisite course requirements for most medical programs, our program includes recommendations from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), ensuring a rigorous and well-rounded education.
Graduates of the Pre-Medicine track at Holy Family Medical are well-positioned to pursue advanced studies and careers in fields such as:
- Dentistry: Become a vital part of oral healthcare, improving patients’ smiles and overall health.
- Environmental Health Specialist: Protect communities by addressing environmental hazards and promoting public health.
- Medical Laboratory Scientist: Play a critical role in diagnosis and treatment by performing and analyzing medical tests.
- Medicine (Allopathic or Osteopathic): Become a physician, providing direct patient care and leading advancements in medical treatments.
- Optometry: Focus on eye health, diagnosing and managing vision problems to enhance patients’ quality of life.
- Pharmacy: Become an expert in medication management, ensuring safe and effective drug therapies for patients.
- Physician Assistant: Work collaboratively with physicians to provide comprehensive medical care across various specialties.
- Veterinary Medicine: Apply your medical knowledge to animal health, contributing to the well-being of pets and livestock.
Gaining Real-World Experience: Internships and Employment for Holy Family Medical Students
Holy Family Medical emphasizes practical learning and real-world experience as crucial components of pre-medical education. Our students and alumni have consistently secured valuable internships and employment opportunities at leading healthcare institutions and organizations, including:
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Einstein Medical Center, Jefferson-Frankford Hospital, Jefferson-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson University Hospital-Urogynecology and Female Medicine, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Temple University Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Centra State Medical.
- Research Institutions: Drexel University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Fels Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Pediatric Research Center, Temple Fels Institute, Temple Medical Research Center, University of Pennsylvania, CDB.
- Clinical and Healthcare Practices: Academy Injury and Health, Comprehensive Dental Care, Fitchett Chiropractic Center, IC Laser Eye Care PC, Montgomery County Rehab & Sports Therapy, NovaCare, Peninsula Physical Therapy LLC, Petroski Physiotherapy and Performance.
- Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies: Charles River Labs, Esco Technologies, Genesis Biotech Group, Specialty Assays, Wuxi Advanced Therapies.
- Community and Environmental Health Organizations: Churchville Nature Center, Drexel Community, Family and Preventive Health, Glen Foerd, Mercer County Wildlife Center, Pennypack Environmental Center, Pathways to Housing PA.
These diverse experiences provide invaluable insights into the healthcare field, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in practical settings, network with professionals, and solidify their career paths. Holy Family Medical is committed to providing a comprehensive pre-medical education that not only prepares students for advanced studies but also empowers them to become compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals.
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