Your path into medical professions starts now.
If you’re preparing for a future in medicine, the Pre-Medical program at USC Upstate provides a clear, structured path to medical school—integrated within a rigorous undergraduate degree in biology or chemistry. You’ll build the academic foundation, clinical insight, and test preparation needed to stand out in a competitive applicant pool.
You will:
- Build a strong foundation in science.
- Plan your path to med school.
- Strengthen your candidacy.
- Navigate the med school process with support.
- Earn your strong foundational degree
Let’s Talk about Pre Med.
Connect with a Pre-Health advisor in the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering to discuss how USC Upstate is a great fit for you and your healthcare career plans.
Let’s explore your options and create a step-by-step plan to earn your medical degree.
Kimberly Shorter, Ph.D.
Professor
864-503-5716
Courses
Preparation for Medical School and the MCAT
| Biology | BIOL 101 + 102 |
| Chemistry | CHEM 111 + 112 (General Chemistry) • CHEM 331 + 332 (Organic) • CHEM 581 (Biochemistry) |
| Physics | PHYS 201 + 202 or PHYS 211 + 212 |
| Math | MATH 126 + 127 (Precalculus I & II) |
| English | ENGL 101 + 102 |
| Behavioral & Social Sciences | PSYC 101 and SOCY 101 • Additional coursework in sociology and/or psychology at higher levels is encouraged |
Tip: Some medical schools require additional courses beyond the list above. Always review each school’s admission requirements to ensure you meet their minimums. To avoid surprises—particularly for schools we don’t work with often—verify their requirements early in your planning process.
MCAT Timing Tip: Plan to take the MCAT in spring of your junior year or early fall of your senior year. Start chemistry and math courses early so you’re prepared for advanced science coursework by junior year.
Jeshurun Ohanuka | Pre-Med Biology Major
Convenience goes a long way when choosing the right college. It was certainly a factor for Jeshurun Ohanuka, who plans to become an orthopedic surgeon. USC Upstate was close to home, affordable, and offered him scholarships. It also guaranteed the transfer of his Greenville Technical College credits when he was ready to start the biology program at Upstate.
Jeshurun says the faculty at USC Upstate have supported and pushed him towards his goals. Through professional connections, they provided him with unique opportunities to participate in internships and outside research projects. “They want to see you grow; you just have to show that you’re willing to.”
Why choose USC Upstate.
Here are just a few reasons USC Upstate is a great option for Pre-Med
- Targeted Advising: One-on-one guidance ensures your course schedule, MCAT prep, and extracurriculars align with med school expectations.
- Relevant Majors: Most students pursue a B.S. in Biology or Chemistry, but any major is acceptable with the correct prerequisite courses.
- Clinical Access: Proximity to healthcare systems in the Upstate region offers strong options for clinical shadowing and service.
- Proven Pathways: Our pre-med students have gone on to attend Greenville School of Medicine, USC School of Medicine, MUSC, VCOM, and out-of-state medical schools. USC Upstate also is a P3 program school with Greenville School of Medicine.
Next Steps Worksheet
Connect with a Pre-Health advisor in the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering to map your academic plan and start your journey toward medical school. Use the Pre Med worksheet to help track your forward progress.
