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Pre-Health / Pre-Med at TCC

What is Pre-Health?

Pre-health is an all-encompassing term that describes students who are on track to pursue a career in patient-associated healthcare. These include fields such as: medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, optometry, veterinary, physical therapy, physician’s assistant and nurse practitioner. Pre-professional healthcare programs build a strong foundation in science, communication, and critical thinking, preparing you to transfer to a university or apply to a specialized program.

Tacoma Community College provides a strong foundation for your pre-health pathway, preparing you for transfer into a bachelor’s degree or advanced healthcare program. We believe students with diverse academic and lived experiences bring essential perspectives to healthcare and recognize that diversity is critical to reducing disparities and improving patient outcomes. By ensuring equitable access to education and support, we prepare future providers who reflect and advocate for the communities they serve.

Is Pre-Health Right For Me?

Healthcare needs people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Your unique strengths and story can make you a powerful advocate for patients and communities. If you’re considering a future in healthcare, start by asking yourself:

Am I ready to build my skills in science and problem-solving?
Have I explored different healthcare careers and learned what day-to-day work looks like?
Have I tried out my interest by volunteering, shadowing, caregiving, or connecting with healthcare professionals?
Do I feel motivated by helping others and making a positive impact in my community?
Am I prepared for the education and training required—as long as 11–14 years after high school?

If you see yourself in these questions or aspire to, you’re on the path to a career that changes lives, including your own. Healthcare is challenging, but it’s also deeply rewarding and full of opportunities to make a real difference.

If pre‑health isn’t the best match for you but you’re still passionate about working in healthcare, explore TCC’s many other health‑related pathways to find the program that matches your goals. You can discover these options by visiting the Healthcare Pathway Programs page.

Exploring Professional Health Careers

Exploring professional healthcare careers is an essential first step in planning your educational journey. Patient care careers span a wide range of fields—physicians, nurses, physician assistants, dentists, pharmacists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, veterinarians, and more. Each role offers unique opportunities to care for patients, promote wellness, and make a lasting impact on communities.

Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, particularly those affecting the spine. They use spinal adjustments, manual therapies, and lifestyle recommendations to promote holistic patient health.

Education
Chiropractic graduate programs typically take four years to complete and culminate in a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Minimum of three years of undergraduate education (135-quarter credits/90 semester credits), with most institutions requiring a bachelor's degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology, Kinesiology/Exercise Science, or Health Science.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework, as defined by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE), an accrediting agency of the US Department of Education. This includes a minimum 36 quarter credits/24 semester credits in life and physical science courses.
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure
Washington State Chiropractor Licensing Requirements
Chiropractice State Licensing Boards

Professional Organizations
American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
Washington State Chiropractic Association (WSCA)

Additional Resources
Association of Chiropractic Colleges (ACC)
Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE)
Dentists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. They provide services such as routine checkups, restorative procedures, and oral health education to maintain overall dental health.

Education
Dental graduate programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) programs are equivalent degrees with identical curriculum requirements established by the American Dental Association(ADA). The distinction lies solely in the terminology used by individual institutions, which determine whether to offer a DDS or DMD.

Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Health Science, and Psychology
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often includes coursework in biology, chemistry/organic chemistry, and physics.
- 3.3 or higher cumulative grade point average
- Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Licensure
Licensure for Dental Students - American Dental Association
Washington State Dental Licensing Requirements
Dental Licensure Maps - American Dental Association

Professional Organizations
American Dental Association
Washington State Dental Association
Dental Organizations

Additional Resources
The American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
Occupational therapists help individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and work. They use evidence-based interventions to promote independence through therapeutic activities, adaptive strategies, and environmental modifications. OTs provide personalized plans to support needs such as injury recovery, developmental challenges, chronic conditions, and aging-related changes.

Education
Entry into the occupational therapy profession can be achieved at the master’s or doctoral degree-level.

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
- Programs typically takes two years
- Common admission requirements:
  - Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Psychology, Biology/Biologic Sciences, Health Sciences, and Kinesiology.
  - Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often includes coursework in biology, anatomy, psychology, and statistics.
  - 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- Programs typically takes three years
- Appropriate for individuals who ultimately plan to pursue a role in leadership, advocacy, policymaking, or higher education
- Common admission requirements:
  - Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Psychology, Biology/Biologic Sciences, Health Sciences, and Kinesiology.
  - Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often includes coursework in biology, anatomy, psychology, and statistics
  - 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
  - Documented occupational therapy shadowing or work experience
Licensure
Washington State Occupational Therpist and Occupation Therapy Assistant Licensing Requirements
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam

Professional Organizations
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
National Board for Certification in OT (NBCOT)
Optometrists are primary eye-care providers who diagnose vision problems, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, manage eye diseases, and provide preventive eye health counseling. They work closely with patients across the lifespan and often collaborate with ophthalmologists and other health professionals.

Education

A Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree typically takes 4 years to complete after finishing the required undergraduate coursework. Common admissions requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree with prerequisites in biology, microbiology, inorganic, organic, and biochemistry, physics, math, anatomy and physiology, and social sciences,
- Before admission, students take the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure

National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO)
Washington State Optometry Licensing Requirements

Professional Organizations

American Optometric Association (AOA)

Additional Resources

Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)

Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE)

Optometric Physicians of Washington (OPW)
Pharmacists are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in the safe preparation, dispensing, and management of medications. They ensure patients receive the correct prescriptions, provide counseling on proper use, and offer guidance on health and wellness. Pharmacists also administer immunizations and play a key role in promoting safe and effective medication practices

Education
Pharmacy programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Minimum of two to three years of undergraduate coursework; the majority of applicants have a bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Chemistry/Biochemistry and Biology/Biological Sciences.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often includes coursework in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy & physiology, and math.
- Competitive grade point average, generally 3.0+
Licensure
Washington State Pharmacist Licensing Requirements
North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX)
Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE)

Professional Organizations
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)

Additional Resources
Pharmacy is Right for Me
Physical therapists specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating movement disorders and physical impairments. They help patients recover mobility, reduce pain, and improve function through individualized treatment plans that may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and education. Physical therapists commonly work with musculoskeletal injuries, neurological conditions, post-surgical rehabilitation, and sports-related injuries

Education
Physical therapy graduate programs typically takes three years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor's Degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as kinesiology, exercise science, biology, physics
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often includes coursework in anatomy & physiology, biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure
Washington State Physical Therapist Licensing Requirements
National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)

Professional Organizations
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
APTA Washington State
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education
Medical doctors diagnose, treat, and help prevent illnesses and injuries. They use evidence-based interventions such as medications, surgery, and other therapies to manage disease and promote overall health and well-being.

Education
Medical graduate programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor's Degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology/Biological Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Psychology, Public Health/Global Health, and Medical Anthropology
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often requires strong science preparation in biology, chemistry, physics, and social sciences.
- Competitive cumulative grade point average, 3.5 or higher is recommended
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam
Residency
After completing medical school, physicians must complete residency training. Residency is a structured, hands-on program designed to prepare physicians for independent practice in a chosen specialty. The length of residency varies by specialty, typically lasting three to seven years

Licensure
Washington Medical Commission Licensing Requirements - Physician and Surgeons
United States Medical License Examination (USMLE)

Professional Organizations
American Medical Association (AMA)
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Washington State Medical Association

Additional Resources
AMA Freida Specialty Guide
Osteopathic physicians are fully licensed medical doctors who diagnose, treat, and help prevent illness and injury. They use a holistic approach that combines evidence-based medicine with osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to support the body’s natural ability to heal and promote overall health and function.

Education
Osteopathic graduate programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor's Degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology/Biological Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Psychology, Public Health/Global Health, and Medical Anthropology
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often requires strong science preparation in biology, chemistry, physics, and social sciences.
- Competitive cumulative grade point average, generally 3.5 or higher
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam
Residency
After completing medical school, physicians must complete residency training. Residency is a structured, hands-on program designed to prepare physicians for independent practice in a chosen specialty. The length of residency varies by specialty, typically lasting three to seven years

Licensure
Washington State Osteopathic Physician and Surgeon Licensing Requirements
Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA)

Professional Organizations
American Medical Association (AMA)
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Washington State Medical Association
American Osteopathic Association

Additional Resources
AMA Specialty Guide
Naturopathic physicians focus on natural and holistic approaches to health and wellness. They help patients prevent and treat illness using evidence-informed natural therapies such as nutrition, lifestyle counseling, botanical medicine, and homeopathy, while emphasizing the body’s ability to heal itself.

Education
Naturopathic graduate programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology/Biological Sciences and Chemistry/Biochemistry.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often requires strong science preparation in biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Competitive cumulative grade point average, generally 3.0 or higher
Licensure
Washington State Naturopathic Physican Licensing Requirements
Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examination (NPLEX)

Professional Organizations
North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE)
Physician assistants (PAs) work collaboratively with physicians to examine, diagnose, and treat patients. They perform many of the same clinical tasks as doctors, including conducting physical exams, ordering tests, and prescribing medications, though they practice under a supervising physician’s license.

Education
Physician assistant programs typically take two to three years to complete and culminate in a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in fields such as Biology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, and Psychology
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often include coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and psychology
- Competitive cumulative grade point average, generally 3.0 or higher
- Most programs also require applicants to have significant hands-on experience, often 2,000 or more hours of paid clinical work.
Licensure
Washington Medical Commission Physician Assistant License Requirements
Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE)

Professional Organizations
American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)
Washington Academy of Physician Assistants (WAPA)
Public health and global health encompass a wide range of disciplines dedicated to improving population health. Community and public health specialists focus on preventing disease, promoting healthy behaviors, and ensuring equitable access to care through education, health programs, and policy initiatives. These fields emphasize health equity, accessibility, and holistic approaches to well-being.

Public health careers include epidemiologists, who study patterns and causes of disease; health educators and community health workers, who encourage healthy lifestyles; environmental health specialists, who safeguard communities from environmental hazards; and biostatisticians, who analyze health data to inform decisions. Additional roles may involve health policy analysis, disaster preparedness, health services management, and disease prevention strategies.

Education
Many Public Health careers require a Master of Public Health (MPH), which usually typically takes two to three years. Common admission requirements for a Public Health graduate program include:
- Bachelor’s degree. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in a health-related or science field.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often include coursework in biology, mathematics, and social sciences. Academic preparation is dependent upon specialization of interest.
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure
General public health professionals (e.g., epidemiologists, analysts, health educators) do not require a state-issued license, but earning certifications like the Certified in Public Health (CPH) can enhance career opportunities and demonstrate expertise.

Professional Organizations
American Public Health Association (APHA)
Washington State Public Health Association (WSPHA)
Global Health Council
Dietitians are licensed healthcare professionals who use evidence-based nutrition science to help individuals improve health, manage medical conditions, and promote overall wellness. They provide personalized nutrition counseling and develop meal plans to address needs such as food allergies, chronic disease management, weight control, and sports performance.

Education
Graduate dietitian program typically take two to three years. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree is required. Many programs prefer or require a bachelor's degree in nutirition, dietetics, or a closely related field.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often include coursework in chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy & physiology, microbiology, statistics, and nutrition.
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
- Verification Statement from an ACEND-accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD). Some bachelor’s programs include the DPD coursework, while others offer it as a post-baccalaureate option. Additionally, certain master’s programs integrate the DPD into their curriculum, allowing students to complete both simultaneously
Internship
After completing graduate school, individuals must complete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program (dietetic internship), which typically lasts six to twelve months. Some graduate programs, known as Coordinated Programs, integrate the internship into their curriculum, allowing students to earn both a master’s degree and supervised practice experience simultaneously.

Licensure
Washington State Dietitian Certification Requirements
Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam
Licensure Statutes and Board Information By State

Professional Organizations
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
Washington State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (WSAND)

Additional Resources
Healthier Washington Collaboration Portal - Registered Dietitian Educational Pathways
Speech-language pathologists are licensed healthcare professionals who use evidence-based techniques to assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They help individuals improve speech clarity, language comprehension, voice quality, and fluency, and provide therapy for swallowing difficulties. SLPs deliver personalized treatment plans to address needs such as developmental delays, neurological conditions, voice disorders, and social communication challenges.

Education
Speech-Language Pathology graduate programs typically take about two years to complete. The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is the most common degree awarded, though exact degree titles may vary by program. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree is required. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in communication sciences, linguistics, psychology, education, and interdisciplinary arts
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often include coursework in linguistics, psychology, anatomy, and communication sciences.
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure
Washington State Speech Language Pathologist Licensing Requirements
Praxis: Subject Assessment in Speech-Language Pathology
State Licensure for Speech-Lanaguge Pathology

Professional Organizations
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Additional Resources
SpeechPathologyGraduatePrograms.org
Veterinarians are licensed medical professionals who use evidence-based practices to safeguard the health and well-being of animals. They diagnose and treat illnesses, perform surgical procedures, administer vaccinations, and provide guidance on nutrition, preventive care, and disease management. Veterinarians deliver individualized care plans and may specialize in areas such as surgery, internal medicine, emergency care, dentistry, or exotic animal medicine to meet diverse animal health needs.

Education
Veterinary graduate programs typically takes four years to complete and lead to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Common admission requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree is required. No specific undergraduate major is required. Applicants often hold degrees in biological sciences, chemistry/biochemistry, animal sciences, zoology, or marine biology.
- Completion of institituion designated prerequisite coursework; which often include coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
- 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average
Licensure
Washington State Veterinary Licensing Requirements
North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE)
Veterinary State and Provincial Licensing Agencies

Professional Organizations
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Additional Resources
AVMA Recognized Specializations

Pre-Health Options at TCC

Pre-Medical and Pre-Professional Health at Tacoma Community College is not a single program, but rather a flexible pathway designed to help students prepare for a variety of healthcare careers. Instead of requiring a specific degree, most professional health programs focus on applicants completing the necessary academic and clinical prerequisites. Because these requirements vary widely by institution and specialty, students are strongly encouraged to research admission criteria for their target programs early in their academic journey.

The best strategy is to “plan backwards.” Start by reviewing the prerequisites for your intended professional program and consult reputable sources such as professional organizations and state licensure boards for licensing requirements. Because these pathways can be complex and vary by institution, early and ongoing academic advising is critical. Working closely with an advisor ensures you stay on track, avoid unnecessary coursework, and meet all requirements for a smooth transition to your next educational or professional step.

Many students begin by earning an Associate in Biology or an Associate in Science, both of which support transfer to a university for a bachelor’s degree. These degrees provide a strong foundation and transferable credits, but it’s important to confirm that your coursework aligns with your chosen program’s prerequisites.

For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, TCC also offers individual courses to help you complete any remaining requirements for graduate-level health programs.

Relevant Courses

Prerequisite coursework for medical school can vary significantly by institution, so it’s essential to review the specific requirements for each program you plan to apply to. Most medical schools expect a strong academic foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, though the exact sequence and depth of these courses may differ. TCC offers a comprehensive selection of math and science courses that can help you meet many of these prerequisites. Keep in mind that science and math credits often expire after 7–10 years, which may impact your eligibility. To ensure continuity and minimize transfer complications, students are strongly encouraged to complete their math and science sequences at a single institution. Doing so provides consistency in curriculum and helps streamline the transfer process to your next academic step.

Associate Degrees

Tacoma Community College’s associate degree pathways provide an excellent foundation for students pursuing healthcare careers. These programs combine rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics with essential general education requirements, ensuring both academic breadth and depth. Many of TCC’s associate degrees are part of Washington’s statewide transfer agreements, offering a clear, efficient route to a bachelor’s program and helping students transition seamlessly to the next stage of their education. If you plan to complete an Associate degree at TCC, it is recommended to work with an advisor to fulfill as many required and recommended courses for your professional program of interest.

The Associate in Biology, DTA/MRP provides a strong foundation in the core sciences most professional health programs require. This pathway includes extensive coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, ensuring students are well prepared for the rigorous prerequisites of medical, dental, pharmacy, and other professional schools. In addition to fulfilling general education requirements, the degree is structured for seamless transfer to many four-year universities in Washington, giving students a clear and efficient route toward their bachelor’s and beyond.
The Associate in Science, Track 1 emphasizes math and physical sciences, providing a rigorous foundation in chemistry, calculus, and physics while also including core coursework in biology. Because many health professional schools require multiple quarters of chemistry and physics, this pathway is especially valuable for students pursuing medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or related fields.
The Associate in Arts, DTA is a flexible option for pre-health students who want to complete general education requirements while preparing to transfer to a four-year university. This degree allows you to explore a wide range of subjects while still incorporating key prerequisites in math and science needed for professional health programs. Because it is part of Washington’s statewide Direct Transfer Agreement, the AA-DTA provides a smooth pathway to many universities and can be tailored with elective courses that align with your specific health career goals. It’s a strong choice if you’re looking for both transferability and room to customize your studies.

Bachelor Degrees

In addition to robust associate degree pathways, TCC offers bachelor’s degree programs for students who want to advance their education without leaving campus. These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, providing options to learn in person or fully online. TCC’s bachelor’s degrees build on associate degrees, offering specialized coursework and hands-on learning that prepare you for leadership roles and career advancement in healthcare and related fields—all while staying connected to the supportive TCC community.

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Community Health provides a strong foundation in population health, health policy, and community-based care—skills that complement future medical studies and prepare graduates to serve diverse communities.
Please note that the BAS in Community Health does not include the full sequence of math and science prerequisites required for medical or physican assistant school. Students are strongly advised to contact their potential medical or physican assistant school(s) early regarding the specific admission requirements.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Information Management prepares students for leadership roles at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and data. Students who complete TCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology can continue directly into this bachelor’s program, creating a seamless pathway from entry-level credentials to advanced career opportunities. This program is ideal for students interested in advancing healthcare through innovation, data integrity, and organizational leadership rather than direct patient care.