FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

I have an undergraduate degree but it’s not in math or science. I also lack applicable work experience in the health care field. Will this disqualify me from consideration from the Post-Bac Health Studies Program?

Most of our post-bac students come from non-science majors and/or careers. We are typically looking for students who have completed fewer than half of the undergraduate requirements for admission to graduate/professional school in the health sciences. If admitted, you must complete a minimum of 45 credit hours to receive a certificate. Post-bac students are also expected to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 while completing the requisite coursework. 

I have already completed the pre-requisite classes for medical school as an undergraduate. How can I benefit from the Post-Bac Health Studies Program?

Our program is a “career changer” program for students with less than half of the pre-requisite classes completed. Students who have already taken some of these classes will take upper division coursework. However, students who have completed more than half of the required pre-requisite classes for graduate or professional school in the health sciences may be overqualified for our program and should consider an "academic record enhancer" post-bac program.

The Post-Bac Health Studies Certificate requires a minimum of 45 credits. As a career changer, it seems I need to take more credits than that. Can you explain?

To earn the Post-Bac Health Studies Certificate, students need to take a minimum of 45 credits from the list of pre-requisites for professional/graduate schools in the health science. As a career changer in our program, you may end up taking 90 credits to meet the pre-requisites so you will earn the certificate as you progress through the courses. 

How does my undergraduate GPA affect my eligibility for admission into the Post-Bac Health Studies Program?

The program expects a strong overall undergraduate GPA. When you apply to graduate/professional school in the health sciences, the application will report your grade point average in several ways: your overall undergraduate GPA, your undergraduate “science” GPA (all courses in biology, physics, chemistry, and mathematics), your undergraduate non-science GPA, and your post-bac GPA in all of those categories. Post baccalaureate coursework is included in the “undergraduate total” GPA as well as in a separate “post baccalaureate” GPA. Therefore, the Post-Bacc Health Studies program will provide an opportunity to take the pre-health pre-requisite courses and demonstrate proficiency and competency in science courses, which will combine with your undergraduate GPA for an overall picture of your academic performance.

Can I use the Post-Bac Health Studies Program to raise my overall undergraduate GPA before I apply to med school?

Our program is for students interested in learning more about the areas of science relevant to pursuing a career in the health sciences, for both students with some prior academic experience and “career changers.” However, our program is only 45 credit hours so students with GPA below a 3.0 should look for programs for “academic record enhancers.” 

Does the Post-Bac Health Studies Program have any linkage programs to specific medical schools?

Our program does not have any linkage programs with any medical schools.

What is the acceptance rate into professional & graduate programs in the health sciences for graduates from the Post-Bac Health Studies Program?

The five year average of acceptances to medical schools for Seattle University students ranges from 80-95%.

Can I apply to the Post-Bac Health Studies Program as an international student?

Yes, we accept international students to our program. However, international applicants should first review the admissions requirements of potential US professional schools in the health sciences since each differs in whether they require the pre-health science courses be completed in the United States or whether they require an undergraduate degree from an U.S. institution. For example, some US medical schools will only accept US citizens or permanent residents regardless of academic performance. 

Can I connect with an advisor prior to my acceptance into the Post-Bac Health Studies Program?

Yes. If you have any questions about the program, please contact us at prehealth@seattleu.edu.

How can I schedule a campus tour?

Schedule a campus tour with the Admissions Office.

Can I attend classes at night or on weekends?

Classes are only offered during the day and during the week.

How do I find out about Financial Aid?

Questions about financial aid should be addressed to Student Financial Services.

I've been accepted to Post-Bac Health Studies Program. When and how do I register for courses?

Registration for your first term is done with assistance from the program advisor. After the first term, students will be notified when registration for the next term is open and will register themselves through the SU system. Students are encouraged to meet with their program advisor each quarter to monitor their progress. 

Do I qualify to apply for this post-baccalaureate program?