Will lack of extra biology classes kill my application?

[Flashfan]

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I know that you can major in anything you like as long as you get in the prereqs, but how do schools feel about having zero upper-level bio classes? At my very small LAC the required research classes for my psych major interfere with the labs for the bio offerings. I have conflicts with genetics and I can't take cell or physiology without the other classes. Microbiology may fit, but I would rather not take it at the same time as calculus-based physics II and biochemistry. I can't fit Anatomy in until senior year, so I won't have that before my application is complete.
I will have lab experience and my psych department is heavy in neuroscience, if that makes a difference. Do people actually get into med school without the strongly recommended bio classes or should I start planning a post bacc program right now? I am not aiming for Top 20 school, any MD program would be fine with me.

 

[NuttyEngDude]

If you have the GPA and MCAT score then the only bad thing that could happen is if the specific school asks you to take a class as part of their requirements. But that wont stop them from considering you for interview or acceptance. They'll just make you take it before you matriculate.

 

[deleted407021]

You will be fine not taking upper division biology courses. It wouldn't hurt to have one or two if you can fit them in, but they aren't necessary for acceptance. Some schools may require specific courses, but you may fit them in last minute if need be.

 

[chillaxbro]

If anything, schools want to see non-science classes so they know you're "well rounded" and "have other interests" 🙄

 

[Law2Doc]

I know that you can major in anything you like as long as you get in the prereqs, but how do schools feel about having zero upper-level bio classes? At my very small LAC the required research classes for my psych major interfere with the labs for the bio offerings. I have conflicts with genetics and I can't take cell or physiology without the other classes. Microbiology may fit, but I would rather not take it at the same time as calculus-based physics II and biochemistry. I can't fit Anatomy in until senior year, so I won't have that before my application is complete.
I will have lab experience and my psych department is heavy in neuroscience, if that makes a difference. Do people actually get into med school without the strongly recommended bio classes or should I start planning a post bacc program right now? I am not aiming for Top 20 school, any MD program would be fine with me.

You only need the prereqs. (or anything a particular school you are applying to requires or strongly recommends). Anything you take beyond that is for your own interest. The schools really couldn't care less.

 

[rfvbnmju]

Rock your MCAT and GPA and it won't be a problem.

Sent from my phone.

 

[drabberbadge]

A lot of schools are starting to require biochem so just watch for that

 

[gyngyn]

We don't have a preference.

 

[Arayh]

If the school strongly recommends a course (or requires a course) you should try to take it. Seeing things like Biochem and Genetics in undergrad, even if you haven't retained much of it, will still be helpful in med school. I frequently find recognizing/understanding principles/concepts better if I have seen it once before, even if it was a year or two ago.

 

[QuantumJ]

I haven't taken all of the required bio yet (12hrs. need 3 more) OP and I'm doing well so far this cycle. Don't worry about it.