Pre-reqs: University level versus general level for chem, bio, and physics

[Arrode]

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Sorry if this was asked before. I could only find info on university physics vs. general physics in other threads!

I have a question regarding which level of sciences for pre-reqs to take. I notice that biology, chemistry, and physics all have two versions: general and the version for science majors.

For physics there's general physics and calculus-based physics. From what I've read on this board I can take general physics as long as it has a lab. I believe they said the MCAT focuses on general, not science-major, physics.

Now, does the same apply to Biology and Chemistry? I noticed there are two levels of BIO/CHEM at my school: general level and "science major" level. What did you guys take? Did it adequately prepare you for the MCAT?

Once again, sorry if this has been asked a thousand times before! I'm planning my schedule for next semester and want to make sure I take courses that will benefit me for the MCAT!

 

[FrkyBgStok]

Take the general physics, but the bio/chem for science majors. These are the ones you need to fulfill the prereq requirements.

 

[Autarkeia]

If there are two levels, take the higher one, and if three, the middle. Usually.

 

[Arrode]

Thanks, this is what I thought, just wanted to confirm!

 

[dreamweaver1988]

Take the general physics, but the bio/chem for science majors. These are the ones you need to fulfill the prereq requirements.

^^This is correct.

Physics: Non-calculus-based (check the course description)

Biology & inorganic chemistry & organic chemistry: For science majors. If you're not sure, look at your school's curriculum for biology and chemistry degrees and see what's required--those courses are the ones you need to take. If you're still not sure, talk to your pre-med adviser or email the bio and chem departments. They will be happy to oblige.

 

[TriagePreMed]

^^This is correct.

Physics: Non-calculus-based (check the course description)

Biology & inorganic chemistry & organic chemistry: For science majors. If you're not sure, look at your school's curriculum for biology and chemistry degrees and see what's required--those courses are the ones you need to take. If you're still not sure, talk to your pre-med adviser or email the bio and chem departments. They will be happy to oblige.

Not always. My school has 2 versions of O.Chem. One is for people that want to get a professional degree and another for people that want to be biochemists. Every school I've asked has said either is fine. It really depends how his college/university does it.

 

[NuttyEngDude]

for my school, they list out the general chem and bio for pre-med but have a special "prehealth" version of o-chem and physics (non-calc). the professor in the physics even makes references to the MCAT now and then so it depends.

 

[dreamweaver1988]

Not always. My school has 2 versions of O.Chem. One is for people that want to get a professional degree and another for people that want to be biochemists. Every school I've asked has said either is fine. It really depends how his college/university does it.

Seems like a rather esoteric anecdote. The point is that you don't want to take the Mickey Mouse version of a class and have it not count. Most schools (not yours, apparently) have an easier version of a lot of classes--e.g. "General Organic Chemistry"--that a) isn't what science majors take and b) won't count for medical school.