Best Upper Level Bio Classes to Take

[Ravens18]

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I'm planning when to take future classes. I've read that besides the prerequisite classes biochemistry, human physiology, and genetics are the most helpful upper level science classes for the bio section of the mcat. Is this true? Are there any others? I'm planning on being a psychology major and besides all the prerequisite classes for medical school I plan on taking only the upper level science classes that'll be of any benefit for the mcat

 

[Aerus]

If you are already taking General Biology, there's really no need. Of course, if you insist, Molecular and Cell Biology would also be helpful classes. Otherwise, just take classes that interest you if you have space. You won't ever have an opportunity like this again.

 

[hoihaie]

biochem, physiology, cell bio, and molecular bio

 

[Ravens18]

Should one semester of biochem be enough for the new mcat or 2 semesters

 

[lexierae494]

Genetics was very helpful on the two MCATs I've taken

 

[ace12345]

Should one semester of biochem be enough for the new mcat or 2 semesters

Biochem was pretty helpful. Not sure about the new mcat though.

 

[What's Up Doc]

biochem, physiology, cell bio, and molecular bio

How in the world does anyone take gen chem, ochem, bio, physics, biochem, genetics (?), physio, cell bio and molecular bio before the MCAT without taking a gap year I probably won't even be able to fit in anything more than the prereqs and maybeee physio before the MCAT, and I'm taking a gap year (taking it after junior year)!

 

[hoihaie]

How in the world does anyone take gen chem, ochem, bio, physics, biochem, genetics (?), physio, cell bio and molecular bio before the MCAT without taking a gap year I probably won't even e able to fit in anything more than the prereqs and maybeee physio before the MCAT, and I'm taking a gap year (taking it after junior year)!

I took gen bio as AP bio, gen chem and physics freshmen year, ochem, biochem, and genetics sophmore year. Cell and mol bio junior year. Physio senior year. Though I took mcat after junior year so I didnt have physio finished before then.

 

[Ravens18]

Yeah I feel you man I'm gonna be a psychology major and plan on taking the mcat the spring of my junior year as a traditional applicant. I don't think I can fit many of the upper level bio classes besides biochemistry into my schedule along with my psych classes etc. by junior year but most people say as long as you have a strong foundation in the intro classes you should be okay for the mcat

 

[Taco Time]

The more bio classes you take, the more exposed you'll be to material before you start studying. However, a dedicated study time of a few months spent buffing out weaker content areas is enough. Don't psyche yourself out and think you need a phD in biology to do well. General Biology for a year at your university plus a bio elective or two should do. As long as you have a grasp and are comfortable with every topic from AAMC's official guideline, you should be good from a content standpoint. Mcat-review.org is a helpful supplement that is structured after the AAMC guideline.

Do not neglect practice passages. Persistent practice will help reinforce content while honing in on valuable test-taking skills. Take as many practice tests and practice passages as possible and analyze your results.

 

[Aerus]

I took gen bio as AP bio, gen chem and physics freshmen year, ochem, biochem, and genetics sophmore year. Cell and mol bio junior year. Physio senior year. Though I took mcat after junior year so I didnt have physio finished before then.

Other than Physio which I took freshman year, and the MCAT date, that sounds exactly like me!

 

[Ravens18]

Thanks man