4+ science courses per semester

[Mopsd]

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I just graduated with an AA degree and will be transferring to university this fall. I still have most of my science classes left to take and I am looking to get some opinions on whether my schedule would be manageable.

My course load over 4 semesters will include at least 4 science/math courses. Each will include a mixture of physics, organic chemistry, math (calc and statistics) and upper division biology courses. There'd be at least two labs per semester, with one having three labs. These are all bare minimum major requirements. In total, I'd be taking 16-17 credits per semester.

On top of my of this course load, I will be volunteering (a few hours a week), participating in research (up to 10 hours a week) and possibly work (up to 15 hours a week).

On one side, I think it'll balance out my "easy" community college course work and show that I can handle a rigorous course load. But my gut is telling me to drop some extracurricular/work hours. I have never taken a course load composed of only science courses before and don't want to ruin my chances by biting off more than I can chew. I also want to avoid burnout and feeling constantly stressed (if this is even possible as a pre-med).

Is my schedule realistically manageable?

 

[premedprepa]

Im taking over 20 credit hours next semester, trying to work about 20 hours a week, and also doing research <10 hrs; not really looking forward to it but hoping it works out as I will be able to get a bit ahead in my pre med prereqs and getting some EC experience.. you should be fine but some good luck never hurt!

 

[rdyotz]

I would not start off with that work load, at least at first. If you aren't sure how you will adjust to a new school and potentially tougher classes, then don't do it. It also seems like you have not taken many science classes, which in my experience have all required more work than other classes. Good grades are more important than finishing a semester earlier. Many people recommend only 2 sciences (plus labs) a semester, but it all depends on the individual. You still have 4 semesters (or more), and therefore shouldn't not need to balance out your 'easy' CC classes. A full course load (15 credits) including most of your pre-reqs should assuage most fears.

 

[Mopsd]

How would having 12-14 credits per semester total look? They'd all be science classes. Would med schools question my intentions and ability? Any adcomms on here willing to chime in? 🙂

If I add another semester, I'd be able to establish just this by transferring one course from each current semester to this extra semester.

 

[sunshinefl]

4 science courses with labs is a crazy workload. I wouldn’t do it.