biochem or genetics

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medmom

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Is it more usedfull to have biochem or genetics before you take the MCAT?
medmom
 
medmom said:
Is it more usedfull to have biochem or genetics before you take the MCAT?
medmom

I will also be taking the MCAT next year and from what many have posted onthis site the MCAT biological section is heavy with genetics questions. O-Chem 1 is a pre req to biochem and from what others have posted O-Chem is hardly hit on the MCAT.
 
genetics for sure-my test had lots o' genetics questions. not so much biochem, just the general o chem that you need to know.
 
Take both classes...biochemistry and genetics will both come in handy throughout the MCAT.
 
medmom said:
Is it more usedfull to have biochem or genetics before you take the MCAT?
medmom

Genetics

Genetics

Genetics

In 2003, several organic chemistry problems were removed in favor of genetics.

The 2 most important classes for the biology MCAT are genetics and human physiology. Biochemistry would come in 3rd.
 
I would say that it completely varies with the test form and administration. In april 2005, there was HEAVY biochem and organic on both my form and one of my buddys (very few genetics Qs). It seemed like every other page was something from Biochem 2 involving statins/HMG-COA cholesterol/liver action wrt chylomicrons etc... The August MCAT was not at all similar. In fact, I only was able to use biochem for some amino acid structures (one or two Qs). It was indeed mostly genetics. Its pretty much a crapshoot between administration and also test forms. Biochem is a great class though.
 
How important is anatomy for the MCAT. Would you (anyone) take anatomy over biochem?

Thanks
 
UCLAunderdog said:
How important is anatomy for the MCAT. Would you (anyone) take anatomy over biochem?

Thanks

No...you don't need anatomy. And definitely do not take anatomy over biochem.
 
Genetics is more useful for the MCAT but Biochem is more useful to have going into med school. Take both is you can
 
UCLAunderdog said:
How important is anatomy for the MCAT. Would you (anyone) take anatomy over biochem?

Thanks

No---anatomy in college is useless for the MCAT.

You need a human physiology course.

"Anatomy & Physiology" is commonly only take by those going into allied health. If there is an actual "Gross Anatomy" course, then it could be helpful for medical, but not the MCAT.
 
Nate said:
Genetics is more useful for the MCAT but Biochem is more useful to have going into med school. Take both is you can

I agree that biochem is way more useful than genetics for medical school.
 
Genetics. If you have time take Biochem as well. It can only help.
 
Thanks for the great info.

I actually have one more question for you, my school offers a lower division gentics and an upper division Human genetics class, which would be more beneficial for the MCAT? any difference.

I would prefer to take the upper division class because I need the upper division units, but would this class not be broad enough for the MCAT. Any input would be appreciated.
 
I suspect the upper division course might be more useful. Lower division genetics is not much of anything, especially when taken post general biology. Furthermore, it is my understanding that adcoms rather like upper div science course - shows you can use yer noggin...
 
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