1
Computer Science -- how to make computers do what you want, a very broad grouping of computer related sub-disciplines (ai, networking, graphics, systems design, languages, algorithms, database architecture, etc), basically it's applied mathematics and engineering focused on computers.
It's not all that important for medical school. Basically, paper charts are going the way of the dodo so it's nice that you have a rudimentary understanding of information systems.
Genetics is biology and is an upper division course.
Like biochemistry or histology -- if it's not required then it's not required. It's only important if you need to demonstrate you can handle more advanced sciences.
- Joined
- Jun 12, 2007
- Messages
- 119
- Reaction score
- 0
- Points
- 0
- Location
- SF Bay Area, California
- Pre-Health (Field Undecided)
Is there any advantage to taking genetics in preparing for the Bio part of the MCAT?
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2006
- Messages
- 7,506
- Reaction score
- 2,718
- Points
- 5,246
- Resident [Any Field]
I thought so. I've learned that I need to see material 3x before I get it. Taking a year long bio course was an introduction, but taking additional anatomy/physio/biochem/genetics classes helped me a great deal in MCAT prep.
Is additional coursework the most efficient way to learn the material on the MCAT? Probably not. But if you need upper div science coursework anyway, such as for a major or to improve your GPA, then it makes sense.
Best of luck to you.
- Joined
- Jul 27, 2007
- Messages
- 224
- Reaction score
- 0
- Points
- 0
- Location
- Terra Firma
- Pre-Health (Field Undecided)
I didn't know Genetics was considered upper level Bio. I really enjoyed my Genetics and I believe its essential to anything in the Biomed arena.
As someone else noted, you'll be getting a lot of the information for the second or third time and in more detail, which is good for my retention.
As someone else noted, you'll be getting a lot of the information for the second or third time and in more detail, which is good for my retention.
The genetics course at my university was at the 200-level. Not upper-division.
There were advanced genetics courses, of course, taught upper-division, but they aren't necessary.
Personally, I found having the intro genetics class to be extremely helpful because the MCAT probably will have some genetics questions. I don't find these questions too difficult after having the genetics course, but I can't imagine trying to learn about test-crosses, mutations, dominant/recessive traits, etc on my own.
There were advanced genetics courses, of course, taught upper-division, but they aren't necessary.
Personally, I found having the intro genetics class to be extremely helpful because the MCAT probably will have some genetics questions. I don't find these questions too difficult after having the genetics course, but I can't imagine trying to learn about test-crosses, mutations, dominant/recessive traits, etc on my own.
