WHAT IS AN ALLOPATHIC PHYSICIAN?
Allopathic Physicians diagnose illnesses and prescribe and administer treatment for people suffering from injury or disease using pharmacuetical drugs and surgery.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Physicians examine patients, obtain medical histories, and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive health care.

DEGREES OFFERED
There are two types of physicians: The M.D. - Doctor of Medicine - and the D.O.- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. M.D.s are also known as allopathic physicians. While M.D.s and D.O.s may use all accepted methods of treatment, including drugs and surgery, D.O.s place special emphasis on the body's musculoskeletal system, preventive medicine, and holistic patient care.

AREAS OF SPECIALTY
Most M.D.s and D.O.s are primary care physicians. They practice general and family medicine, general internal medicine, or general pediatrics and are usually the first health professional patients consult. When appropriate, primary care physicians refer to specialists, who are experts in medical fields such as obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, psychiatry, or surgery. According to the American Medical Association, there are over 34 specialty areas ranging from medical, surgical, to other healthcare fields.

DESIRED SKILLS
People who wish to become physicians must have a desire to serve patients, be self-motivated, and be able to survive the pressures and long hours of medical education and practice. Physicians must also have a good bedside manner, emotional stability, and the ability to make decisions in emergencies. Prospective physicians must be willing to study throughout their career to keep up with medical advances. They will also need to be flexible to respond to the changing demands of a rapidly evolving health care system.

EDUCATION & TRAINING
Premedical students must complete specific undergraduate coursework (see Pre-Medical School -Academic Planning handout). Also students volunteer at local hospitals and do research to gain experience in the health profession (see Pre-Medical School -Preparation handout). It takes many years of education and training to become a physician: 4 years of undergraduate school, 4 years of medical school, and 3 to 8 years of internship and residency, depending on the specialty selected. To be licensed, physicians must graduate from an accredited medical school, pass a licensing examination, and complete 1 to 7 years of graduate medical education. A final examination immediately after residency is necessary for board certification in specialty areas by the American Board of Medical Specialists (ABMS).

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK & EARNINGS
Employment of physicians will grow faster than average for all occupations throughout the year 2008 due to continued expansions of the health care industries. The growing and aging populations will drive overall growth in the demand for physician services. In addition, new technologies permit more intensive care: Physicians can do more tests, perform more procedures, and treat conditions previously regarded as untreatable. According to the American Medical Association, median income, after expenses, for allopathic physicians was about $164,000. Earnings vary according to number of years in practice, geographic region, hours worked, and skills, personality, and professional reputation.

RELATED OCCUPATIONS
Physicians work to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases, disorders, and injuries. Professionals in other occupations requiring similar skills and critical judgments include acupuncturists, audiologists, chiropractors, dentists, nurse practitioners, optometrists, physician assistants, podiatrists, speech pathologists, and veterinarians.

PRE-MEDICAL SCHOOL - PREPARATION

Acceptance to medical school is very competitive. Applicants must submit transcripts, scores from the Medical College Admission Test, and letters of recommendation. Schools also consider character, personality, leadership qualities, and participation in extracurricular activities. Most schools require an interview with members of the admissions committee.

TIMELINE

· The medical school application process generally begins a year and a half before an applicant will attend Medical school.

                                                                                                            Accept one school by April 15th

Please note:

1) June 1 is the first date when AMCAS applications can be submitted. Applicants should be submitted by mid-July, since secondary applications can arrive during late summer.

2) Transcripts may be sent to AMCAS after March 15. Please note you may only send one set of transcripts from each institution you attended to AMCAS _ you cannot send updates.

3) Do not send letters of recommendation or resumes to AMCAS. Letters of recommendation are sent with secondary applications.

4) AMCAS has a fee waiver program that is based on income; the application is in the AMCAS packet and needs to be sent in early. (Note: Fee waiver applicants cannot submit their AMCAS application until their fee waiver has been approved; otherwise they will forfeit any waiver).

STANDARDIZED TEST - MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test)

Offered twice a year in April and August. Postmark registration materials well before the stated deadline.

The MCAT should be taken by April (or prior) of the year before graduation.

Four sections: Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, a Writing Sample, and Verbal Reasoning.

Financially disadvantaged applicants can apply for the MCAT Fee Reduction Program.

Most Medical Schools will only accept MCAT scores within two years of the exam.

Clinical Experience is required for admission to all medical schools. This includes work in a doctor's office, a local clinic, or volunteer experience through UCLA or another major hospital. It makes no difference whether the student was paid or a volunteer. Medical school admission committees want to know that an applicant can work effectively in a health care environment. To volunteer at the UCLA Medical Center, visit their Office of Volunteer Services at 12-217 Center for Health Sciences (CHS), (310) 825-6001.

Research is an effective way to demonstrate that a student can think critically and independently. Options include the Student Research Program (SRP), 199 courses, and Honors Theses projects. A student's level of responsibility is more important than whom the research was done for, or the title of the position.

Student Research Program (SRP)

Student works on a faculty member's project under his supervision.

Requires less prior research experience than a 199.

http://www.college.ucla.edu/up/SRP/

199 (Independent Study) Courses

Student works on his or her own research project supervised by a faculty member.

Original research; requires more lab and science expertise than SRP.

http://www.college.ucla.edu/ugresearch/index.html

Honors Theses

A multi-part 199 honors series (usually three-quarters, 199) HA/HB/HC).

Satisfactory completion results in graduating with departmental honors.

(Contact department for detailed, specific requirements).

Other research options:

·Volunteer - Informally approach a faculty member and ask to do research.

Lab Worker - These jobs, though involving introductory lab work, can develop into research positions.

MAJOR
Any major is appropriate for medical school preparation. Since the medical school requirements can be taken with any UCLA major, a student should choose a major based on personal preference. Medical schools prefer students with a diversity of experiences that have demonstrated a strong commitment to learning.

REQUIRED COURSES FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL
Medical schools require a standardized list of courses, which are listed on the Pre-Medical School - Academic Planning handout, which is available at the Career Center or online career.ucla.edu

UCLA coursework is accepted by agreement with the various medical schools; courses titles (and units) may vary from requirements listed in the Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR)¹.

Topics required for medical school preparation include molecular biology, genetics, organic chemistry, biochemistry, general physics, college level English, and a broad range of humanities and social science courses (see Pre-Medical School - Academic Planning).

PRE-MEDICAL SCHOOL - ACADEMIC PLANNING

DISCLAIMER: The following are our conservative interpretations of the requirements of various U.S. medical schools. Because each individual medical school determines its own requirements, as well as how they enforce said requirements, every U.S. medical school will not necessarily require all of these courses. Our guidelines are based on the requirements of several of the most demanding medical program, which often are adopted by other schools.

Since specific undergraduate course requirements for U.S. medical schools vary students should also consult Medical School Admission Requirements, an annual publication of the Association of American Medical Colleges, and/or individual schools. All medical schools, though, consider a broad education in the life sciences (Biology and Chemistry), physics, mathematics, writing and communication skills, and the social sciences and humanities.

Pre-Professional Allopathic Physician Preparation and Required Classes

Biology
Life Sciences 1, 2, 3, 4. One year of coursework with lab.
Notes: LS 1-4 will prepare you for the Biological Science section of the MCAT. If you took LS 2 and 3 before Fall 98, then take two additional life science lab courses (in departments such as OBEE, MCD Bio, neuroscience, psychobiology, or physiological science). Many schools recommend extra upper division life science courses in addition to this basic requirement.

Chemistry
Life science or non-science majors: Chemistry 14A, 14B/BL, 14C/CL, 14D; plus 153A/L (biochemistry).
Physical, life or non-science majors: Chemistry 20A, 20B/L, 30A/AL, 30B/BL, 30C; plus 153A/L (biochemistry).
General and organic chemistry courses are required. Many schools include a separate requirement for or a strong recommendation to take biochemistry. The general chemistry coursework will prepare you for the Physical Science section, and the organic chemistry coursework prepares you for the Biological Science section of the MCAT.

Physics
Physics 6A, 6B, 6C or 6AH, 6BH, 6CH or 1A, 1B, 1C, 4AL, 4BL
One year with labs is generally required. Trigonometry-based physics can also satisfy this requirement, but UCLA only offers calculus-based courses and these are required for the various science majors. Physics prepares you for the Physical Science section of the MCAT.

Math
Math 3A, 3B, 3C or 31A, 31B, 32A
This is your preparation for calculus-based physics. Several schools require one year of college level math. For other schools, this requirement is strongly recommended, especially as preparation for physics. One year of math can include statistics (see below) and computer programming classes
(PIC 10A, 10B, 10C).

Statistics
Statistics 10, M11, M12, 13, Biostatistics or Biomath, Psychology 100A*
One quarter of statistics is required for some schools including UCLA, and strongly recommended for others. *Check with individual schools for acceptability of classes offered outside of the Statistics department.

English
One year of college level literature and composition. Writing I and Writing II courses, select general education literature courses, and any upper division English literature or English Composition courses will satisfy this requirement. Please see the “English requirement for health professions schools” sheet for a complete list of suggested courses. These courses will prepare you for the Verbal Reasoning and Writing Sample sections of the MCAT.

Foreign Language
Knowledge and cultural competency in any language other than English is a valuable asset to working in a health care field. If your future plans include working in California or the southwestern states, Spanish is highly valued and somewhat expected. Ask yourself: Can I walk into a hospital room and get a patient history in another language? If the answer is no, then consider taking college level foreign language classes to brush up on your skills.

Other Humanities and Social Science courses are strongly recommended. The non-science GPA is an important component to your overall academic record, and liberal arts education. Courses in the following can enhance your communication skills and overall understanding of the world: Anthropology, Communication Studies, Economics, any ethnic studies area (e.g. Women’s Studies, LGBT Studies, Afro-American Studies, Chicana/Chicano Studies, Near Eastern Studies), Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Speech to name a few.

Computer skills are strongly recommended. Many programs have incorporated computers and electronic media into their curriculum. Several programs are strongly recommending that a student owns a computer. Other programs have indicated that they will soon have the purchase of a computer as part of the requirements of their program.

UCLA is not responsible for coursework being accepted by recipient schools. Students should contact the individual schools directly.

Before you take the MCAT

At the very minimum you should have completed Biology through Life Science 4, Chemistry through 14D or 30C, and Physics through 6C or 1C. Upper division course work in the life sciences, such as in Physiology or Histology, will help you on the MCAT.

Rationale behind the medical school requirements
Principles and the scientific vocabulary basic to medicine must be understood by entering medical students. A thorough understanding of modern concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics is necessary since the study and practice of medicine is based on these disciplines. Candidates for medical school must study in these areas in order to (1) confirm their interest and capacity for proceeding further in these fields, (2) enable medical schools to estimate their achievement and potential in these areas, and (3) meet the requirements of state laws governing physician licenser.

Refined communication skills - the use and understanding of written and spoken language - are essential both for the study of medical disciplines and for communication with patients. Effective communication is the foundation of a physician's successful relationship with patients, the public and with other professionals.

Students planning a career in medicine are also advised to study the humanities and the social and behavioral sciences. These disciplines form the core of what is known about the macroscopic human existence - history, achievements, ideals, and ambitions. Moreover, they are complementary to the study of molecular aspects of human development and can help one achieve an understanding of self and of others. Attitudes, values and motivation are important determinants of behavior in sickness as well as in health.

Undergraduate Major
The selection of an undergraduate major area of study should be a careful and considered decision. Students should select a major that is of interest and that will provide a foundation of knowledge necessary for several different career alternatives. Students who select a major solely or primarily because of the perception that it will enhance the chance of acceptance to a school of medicine are not making a decision in their best interest.

Our office strongly emphasizes that a science major is not a prerequisite for medical school. Students should not major in science simply because they believe this will increase their chances for acceptance. Medical schools are most concerned with the overall quality and scope of undergraduate work. The schools also recognize the desirability of including students with a broad variety of backgrounds in medical school classes. It is true that non-science majors who take as electives a minimum number of science courses to meet medical school requirements must do well in these courses to ensure adequate preparation and favorable consideration by admission committees. For most physicians, however, the undergraduate years are the last available opportunity to pursue in depth a non-science subject of interest, and all who hope to practice medicine should bear this in mind when selecting an undergraduate major.¹

Treatment of AP units
Students entering UCLA with AP units for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or English are still required to fulfill the prerequisites for medical school listed on the opposite side. Most medical schools do not exempt students from completing the prerequisite courses that are covered by AP units.

Important Points to Remember
Students should check prerequisites for courses and note, which quarter these courses, are offered. This handout lists recommended requirements for medical school admission. Requirements for UCLA departmental majors may be more stringent. The P/NP grade option is not recommended. It is a strategic advantage to take the MCAT no later than the spring prior to the year in which the applicant plans to enter medical school.

¹Paraphrased from Medical School Admission Requirements.

CAREER EXPLORATION
A combination of written information, experiential opportunities, testimonials or exposure to others and academic experience are helpful in exploring possible career opportunities. The career center affords various resources and services to assist students in this process including the Career Center Library, Workshops, Counseling, assessments, and special programming. A career in medicine requires dedication, time commitment, and a lengthy educational process. Make sure this is the career that you desire and if not visit the career center to explore other health care options. Take the steps necessary to attain your goal.

HEALTH CARE RELATED INTERNSHIPS Experiential educational and volunteer programs are an excellent way to expand your knowledge of the health professions beyond the classroom. Participation in health related internships will strengthen your application to professional schools and provide exposure experiences that can be highlighted in the personal statement. A select number of health care internships focusing on research, legislation and public policy are available through the Career Center's internship office on a local, national and international basis. A sampling of internship opportunities include (but are not limited to) the National Institute of Health, the Surgeon General's Office, Cedar Sinai, AIDS Action, the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services and the American Heart Association. Visit the Career Center's Internship and Study Abroad Services Office for a resource sheet handout providing an overview of health related internships. Please visit career.ucla.edu for more information.

MOCK INTERVIEW
After reviewing your materials, most schools grant interviews prior to making final decisions regarding admissions. The Career Center offers interviewing workshops as well as an opportunity to receive a mock interview and feedback prior to your actual interview.

PERSONAL STATEMENT
On the AMCAS application, a section is provided for students to write personal comments in relation to specific outlined questions (i.e. academic actions) and/or a personal statement. This is an opportunity to briefly explain your goals and motivation for applying to the field of Medicine. The length of the statement must fit within the space allotted. For assistance with developing this statement, the career center has several books, and has coordinated workshops and content critiques with Academics in the Commons. Many institutions request for an expanded version as part of their supplementary package which may be available on their website.

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
All institutions request letters of recommendation or evaluation, usually 3-5 letters at the time of the supplementary or secondary application. Guidelines for authors of letters of recommendation, however, vary among the institutions. Some require or recommend a combination of letters from professors, practicing M.D.s, advisors, employers, clergy person, etc. It is highly recommended that you identify at least a minimum of 2 science professors. Also we recommend that you review the guidelines of your institutions of choice to ensure that you are meeting their requirements.

Many institutions ask for a pre-health advisor or committee letter. Since we do not have committees as UCLA for a collective letter, you should follow the guidelines for alternative letters of evaluation, which typically would be professors or others familiar with your academic performance or scholarship. The Career Center offers UCLA students and alumni a service, which stores and sends letters of recommendation to graduate schools. To open a PPS letter file, visit career.ucla.edu. All letters should be forwarded directly to the Career Center by the author, as these are confidential documents.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:²
Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR): published annually by AAMC. Sold at major bookstores.

·AAMC.org (the American Association of Medical Colleges Web site). Offers a wealth of information about the medical school application process, specialized programs, MCAT registration information, and links.

Studentdoctor.com. Web site offering extensive information for prospective health sciences students.

¹Published annually by the American Association of Medical Colleges (Washington, D.C.). It is available for viewing at the PPS, and for purchase at major bookstores (such as Amazon.com).

² The Pre-Professional Advising office is not responsible for the content of external Web site links.

APPLICATION SERVICES
American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS)

The American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS™) is a non-profit, centralized application processing service for applicants to the first-year entering classes at participating U.S. medical schools. For the 2002 entering class, 116 medical schools and 1 program are participating in AMCAS. Applicants to medical schools that do not participate in AMCAS, as well as all advanced standing and transfer applicants, should contact schools directly for application instructions

For more information on AMCAS look at website:
http://www.aamc.org/students/amcas/start.htm

AMCAS email: amcas@aamc.org

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)

Section for Student Services 2501 M Street, NW, Lobby-26 Washington, DC 20037-1300

AMCAS web application

AMCAS service is now available on line:
www.aamc.org/students/amcas/application.htm

CAREER INFORMATION
For general information on physicians, contact:

The American Medical Association (AMA)
Department of Communications and Public Relations
515 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610
Internet: http://www.ama-assn.org

EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
For a list of allopathic medical schools and residency programs, as well as general information on premedical education, financial aid, medicine as a career, contact:

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Section for Student Services
2450 N. Street N.W.
Washington, DC 20037-1131
Internet: www.aamc.org

FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
Financing Your Medical Education

This site contains a comprehensive list of Scholarship and Loan programs to finance medical school. http://www.aamc.org/students/financing/start.htm

State Loan Repayment Programs
State and Other Loan Repayment/Forgiveness and Scholarship Programs is a database that compiles U.S. programs that offer financial assistance, in the form of loan repayments, for a commitment to service (generally in an area of need). State health departments and other agencies, medical and health professions schools, federal programs, and military agencies provided the information.

http://www.aamc.org/about/gsa/stloan/start.htm

AAMC Post Bac Programs List
A comprehensive list of Post Bac programs offered nation wide.
http://www.aamc.org/students/considering/postbac.htm

Post Bac Programs by Type:
An excellent website complied by Syracuse University which describes in details about PostBac and lists of programs emphasizing enhancement, career change, and minority applicants.
http://www-hl.syr.edu/HPAP/LISTPB.HTM

STUDENT ASSOCIATIONS
American Medical Student Association
www.amsa.org

AMSA is a student-governed, national organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. With a membership of over 30,000 medical students, pre-medical sudents, interns and residents from across the country, AMSA continues its commitment to improving medical training and the nation's health. Website includes current health issues, AMSA listserv, AMSA newsletter, on-line newsroom, calendar of events, and deadlines.

Career M.D.
www.careermd.com

Targeted for medical students, it has databases to find residency programs, fellowships and open positions. Also provides updated current health related issues though community forums and career insight articles.

Student Doctor
www.Studentdoctor.com

This web site offers extensive information for prospective health sciences students.

TESTS
MCAT Information from the AAMC
Official MCAT website with registration, practice tests, scores, research, FAQ, and contact information.
www.aamc.org/students/mcat/start.htm

MCAT Publications
This is the official source for MCAT information and preparatory materials from AAMC. Products include the MCAT Student Manual, and a series of five full-length MCAT Practice Tests, comprised of actual MCAT items
http://pnet400.aamc.org/AAMC_STORE/catalog.cfm

CAREER CENTER LIBRARY RESOURCES
Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR)

-Published annually by AAMC. Call (202) 828-0416 for information on ordering. Also it is sold at major bookstores. This annual publication, updated each spring, describes U.S., Canadian, and Puerto Rican medical schools, detailing entrance requirements of each school, selection factors, curriculum features, current first year expenses, financial aid information, application and acceptance procedures, and applicant statistics.

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Vocational Biographies