1. I am interested in medical school. Does it matter what field I select for my major?

If you are interested in medical school, interested in clinical medicine, and NOT interested in biologically related medical research, then any major is appropriate.

 

If you are interested in medical school, interested in clinical medicine, AND interested in biologically related medical research, then a major in the biological, chemical, and/or physical sciences should be strongly considered. Independent undergraduate research is also very important for you. If you also have strong interests outside of the sciences, then you should consider a science major in combination with a non-science major or minor.

2. How many Biology majors graduate each year from Washington University?

Over 140 students graduated with a Biology major last year.

3. What fraction of Biology majors do independent research?

About 45% of Biology majors participate in an independent research project in one of the over 300 laboratories in the biological and biomedical sciences at Washington University. Most Biology Department faculty agree with the following: "Every Biology major who is interested in doing independent research is able to find a laboratory in which to do her/his research."

4. What fraction of Biology majors have interests in medicine?

Approximately 75% of Biology majors have an interest in medicine. Many of those with interests in medicine also have a strong interest in basic biomedical research; some of these apply to and are accepted by MD/PhD programs.

Answers compiled by Paul Stein with assistance from Frances Thuet. Additional information is available at the website: http://www.nslc.wustl.edu/biomajors/prospectivestudents.html