Career Advising

The Clinical Laboratory Science section is for students who are interested in pursuing the goal of becoming certified Clinical Lab Scientists (CLS).

Students interested in pursuing a career as a CLS must obtain a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or Chemistry. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information.

Students in the Pre-CLS Track must complete the following required courses: 

• Minimum of 18 semester units in Biology, including:

  • Hematology with lab

  • Immunology with lab

(at Dominican BIO 3750/55)

• • Medical Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican BIO 3610/15 or BIO 3620/25)

Recommended Biology Courses:

• Genetics with lab

(at Dominican BIO 2800/05 or BIO 3200/05)

• Human Anatomy

(at Dominican BIO 2500/05 or BIO 4500/05)

• Human Physiology

(at Dominican BIO 2600/05 or BIO 4600/05)

• Paristatoligy with lab

(at Dominican BIO 4220/25)

• Minimum of 16 semester units in Chemistry, including:

  • Biochemistry with lab

(at Dominican CHEM 4100/05)

• • Quantitative Analysis

(at Dominican CHEM 4000/05)

• One year of  Physics with lab

(at Dominican PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One semester of Calculus

(at Dominican MATH 1600)

For more information, click to view the SFSU CLS Admission Worksheet or visit the SFSU CLS Program Site

CLS School Resources:

To find general information and links to Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), sometimes referred to as a Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) or Medical Technologist (MT) school programs visit the Medical Lab Scientist Certification MLS (ASCP) Info Site

California CNA / Patient Care Technician Programs 

1. Mission College

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Program: Nursing Assistant / CNA

• Length: Short-term program; includes classroom + supervised clinical experience

• Format: In-person

• Certification: California CNA certification

• Current application: Spring 2027 application window is listed as Sept. 1–24, 2026

• Contact: 408-855-5303

• Official program: https://missioncollege.edu/academics/health-occupations-nursing/certified-nursing-assistant/

• CA approved: Yes

2. Evergreen Valley College

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: Nurse Assistant / Home Health Aide

• Length: 61.5 lecture hours + 100 clinical hours for CNA; additional HHA training follows

• Format: Classroom + clinical

• Clinical: Skilled nursing facility in San Jose

• Certification: Eligible for California CNA state exam after successful completion

• Contact: 408-270-6448

• Official program: https://www.evc.edu/academics/nursing/cna-home-health-aide.html

• CA approved: Yes

3. JobTrain

• Location: Menlo Park, CA

• Program: Certified Nurse Assistant

• Length: 11 weeks + state review/exam

• Format: Virtual theory + hands-on/in-person training

• Cost: Free for eligible students; JobTrain states program costs are covered

• Certification: California CNA + HHA + AHA BLS

• Eligibility: Residents of San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda, San Francisco, Contra Costa, or Santa Cruz counties

• Contact: 650-330-6429

• Official program: https://www.jobtrainworks.org/career-training/cna/

• CA approved: Yes

4. Golden Heart School of Nursing

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: CNA/Nurse Assistant Training Program

• Length: 6 weeks / 160 hours

• Training: 60 hours theory + 100 hours clinical

• Format: In-person

• Cost: $1,900

• Schedules: Morning, evening, and weekend

• Certification: Eligible for California CNA exam

• Phone: 408-677-8443

• Official program: https://www.goldenheartnursing.com/courses/

• CA approved: Yes

5. S.J. Institute of Nursing

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: Nursing Assistant/CNA

• Length: About 5½ weeks for the morning program

• Training: 60 hours classroom + 100 hours clinical

• Format: In-person

• Current 2026 class: Oct. 26–Dec. 8, 2026

• Phone: 408-705-7648

• Official website: https://www.sjinstituteofnursing.com/

• CA approved: Yes

6. ReachPoint Nurse Education Center

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: CNA Training

• Length: 60 hours classroom + 100 hours clinical

• Format: Classroom + hands-on clinical

• Certification: California CNA state exam

• Job placement: Assistance listed by school

• Phone: 408-816-0029

• Official program: https://reachpointedu.com/cna-training-program/

• CA approved: Yes

7. Diamond School of Nursing

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: Certified Nursing Assistant

• Format: In-person

• Training: Skills training + clinical

• Schedules: Weekday and weekend options

• Certification: California CNA exam preparation

• Phone: 408-850-0040

• Official program: https://www.diamondnursingschool.com/cna-career

• CA approved: Yes

8. Caring Hands School of Nursing

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: CNA

• Format: Accelerated, in-person

• Training: Classroom, skills lab + clinical

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 831-809-1439

• Official application: https://www.caringhandsschoolofnursing.com/cna-initial-application

• CA approved: Yes

9. Golden Valley Nursing Institute

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Program: Nursing Assistant/CNA

• Format: Classroom + hands-on clinical

• Training: Patient care, vital signs, infection control, mobility, dementia care, etc.

• Certification: California CNA exam

• Phone: 408-503-3428

• Official program: https://www.goldenvalleynursinginstitute.com/nurse-assistant-cna

• CA approved: Yes

10. Bay Area CNA School

• Location: Dublin, CA

• Program: CNA

• Format: Career training

• Training: CNA theory, skills and clinical training

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 833-833-2527

• Official website: https://bayareacnaschool.com/

• CA approved: Listed by CDPH

11. Quest Nursing Education Center

• Location: Oakland, CA

• Program: Certified Nursing Assistant

• Format: In-person

• Training: CNA classroom, skills and clinical preparation

• Phone: 510-452-1444

• Official website: https://questnursingschool.com/

• CA approved: Yes

12. City College of San Francisco

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Program: Certified Nursing Assistant

• Type: Community college

• Format: Classroom + clinical

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 415-561-1909

• Official website: https://www.ccsf.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

13. Gavilan College

• Location: Gilroy, CA

• Program: Nursing Assistant/CNA

• Type: Community college

• Format: College course + clinical training

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 408-848-4883

• Official website: https://www.gavilan.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

14. College of Marin

• Location: Novato, CA

• Program: CNA/Nursing Assistant

• Campus: Indian Valley Campus

• Format: Classroom + clinical

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 415-457-8811

• Official website: https://www.marin.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

15. San Leandro Adult & Career Education

• Location: San Leandro, CA

• Program: CNA

• Format: Adult career education

• Training: Nursing assistant theory + clinical

• Certification: California CNA

• Phone: 510-667-6250

• Official website: https://www.sanleandroadultschool.org/

• CA approved: Yes

16. Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts

• Locations: San Jose and other California campuses

• Program: Patient Care Technician

• Format: Career/healthcare training

• Training: Patient-care skills and clinical preparation

• Official website: https://www.gurnick.edu/

• San Jose campus: 1641 N First St, San Jose

• Phone: 408-384-7050

17. Unitek College

• Locations: Multiple California campuses, including San Jose

• Program: Healthcare career programs with patient-care training

• Format: Hands-on labs + clinical/externship experiences depending on program

• San Jose: 6800 Santa Teresa Blvd., San Jose

• Phone: 800-318-1550

• Official website: https://www.unitekcollege.edu/

• San Jose campus: https://www.unitekcollege.edu/campus-locations/san-jose/

18. Bay Area Medical Academy

• Locations: San Francisco / San Jose

• Programs: Patient-care-focused healthcare training, including CNA and related clinical training

• Format: Classroom + hands-on clinical training

• Official website: https://bamasf.edu/

• CA CNA approval: Check the specific CNA location against CDPH before enrolling.

19. CALRegional

• Locations: Multiple California locations

• Programs: CNA and other entry-level healthcare certifications

• Format: Accelerated/hybrid options depending on program

• Training: Hands-on healthcare skills + clinical components where applicable

• Official website: https://calregional.com/

• Note: Check the specific campus and current CNA cohort before enrolling.

20. Mission College — CNA → PCT-type patient-care pathway

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Program: Nursing Assistant/CNA

• Why include it: The CNA program provides direct patient-care training and can serve as an entry point into additional healthcare training.

• Format: Classroom + supervised clinical experience

• Official CNA page: https://missioncollege.edu/academics/health-occupations-nursing/certified-nursing-assistant/

• Phone: 408-855-5303

The Dental section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Dental School.

The Pre-Dental Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. 

Students completing the Pre-Dental Track must complete the following required courses:

• Two years of General Biology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 1100/05 BIO 2800/05, BIO 4500/05, and 

BIO 4600/05 )

• One year of General Chemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

• One year of Physics with lab

(at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05

• One year of English, Speech or Communication
  (at Dominican: ENGL 1111 and ENGL 2222)

Highly recommended courses:

• One semester of Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 3610/15)

• One semester of Biochemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 4100/05)

• One semester of Histology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 4810/15)

For more information, visit the UOP DDS Admission Site.

DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) vs. DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine)

There is no difference between the D.D.S. and D.M.D. degrees. Both use the same curriculum requirements and both lead to licensing as a general dentist. If an individual wants to specialize as an oral surgeon, orthodontist, or other dental specialty, both degrees will allow the student to apply for their desired specialized residency program. Here are some links for reference:

ADA Site

ADEA Site

ASDA (American Student Dental Association) Site

Path to Become an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon 

Dental School Resources:

Click to view a List of Dental Schools

Application to apply for Dental Schools: AEDA (American Dental Education Association)

Entry Test Used: DAT (Dental Admission Test)

The Education section is for students who are interested in studying science with a goal to become a Middle or High School Science teacher.

The Pre-Education track is based on admission requirements. Always check the individual school's website for updated information. Dominican University of CA offers TWO options to achieve the student's goal.

OPTION 1: Accelerated Bachelors in Teaching Credential,

Earn a double major with a BA in Biology or Chemistry and 

a BA in Education

OPTION 2: Earn an Education Minor 

Education Degree Resources:

How to become a teacher in California

Dominican University of California Teaching Credential Program

California EMT Programs 

1. The Academy – South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Consortium

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: About 16 weeks

• Hours: 189 hours didactic/skills + 24 hours supervised clinical

• Cost: About $1,232–$1,255

• Certification: Prepares students for NREMT exam

• College credit: Available through partner community colleges

• Link: https://theacademy.ca.gov/

2. Bay Area Training Academy – Milpitas

• Program: EMT Basic

• Location: Milpitas, CA

• Length: Accelerated options available

• Cost: Varies by course

• Format: Classroom + hands-on skills

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Phone: 800-701-7333

• Link: https://bayareatrainingacademy.com/ 

3. Bay Area Training Academy – Alameda

• Program: EMT Basic

• Location: Alameda, CA

• Length: Approximately 5–8 weeks depending on schedule

• Cost: Varies

• Format: Classroom + hands-on skills + clinical/field components

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Phone: 800-701-7333

• Link: https://bayareatrainingacademy.com/ 

4. The EMT Academy

• Program: EMT

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: Accelerated program

• Format: Intensive classroom + skills training

• Certification: Prepares students for NREMT

• Phone: 408-595-2460

• Address: 181 Martinvale Ln, San Jose

• Link: https://www.theemtacademy.com/ 

5. Foothill College – EMS

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Los Altos Hills / Sunnyvale, CA

• Length: Varies by semester

• Type: Community college

• Format: Lecture + laboratory + clinical/field experience

• Pathway: EMT → Paramedic

• Certification: California EMT/NREMT pathway

• Phone: 650-949-6955

• Link: https://foothill.edu/ems/

6. Mission College

• Program: EMT

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Classroom + skills training

• Certification: EMT certification pathway

• Additional: Fire/EMS programs available

• Phone: 408-855-5000

• Link: https://missioncollege.edu/depts/emt/ 

7. South County EMS Training Center

• Program: EMT

• Location: Gilroy, CA

• Length: Accelerated options

• Format: Hands-on + scenario-based training

• Certification: EMT/NREMT preparation

• Additional: EMT skills and recertification courses

• Phone: 650-740-8422

• Link: https://southcountyemstraining.com/ 

8. California EMS Academy

• Program: EMT

• Location: Redwood City, CA

• Length: Accelerated and traditional options

• Format: Classroom + hands-on training

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Paramedic training also available

• Phone: 650-701-0739

• Link: https://www.californiaemsacademy.com/ 

9. American Health Education

• Program: EMT Basic

• Location: Livermore, CA

• Length: Varies by cohort

• Format: Classroom + hands-on skills + clinical/field experience

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Prerequisites: Typically 18+, high school diploma/GED, insurance and BLS certification

• Phone: 800-483-3615

• Link: https://www.americanhealtheducation.com/ 

10. College of San Mateo

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: San Mateo, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Lecture + skills lab + clinical experience

• Certification: California EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Fire/EMS courses available

• Link: https://collegeofsanmateo.edu/ems/ 

11. Ohlone College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Fremont, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Classroom + laboratory + clinical

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Paramedic program available

• Link: https://www.ohlone.edu/ems 

12. Gavilan College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Gilroy, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Lecture + skills + clinical

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: EMS and public safety programs

• Link: https://www.gavilan.edu/academics/areas/health/emt/ 

13. Cabrillo College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Aptos, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Classroom + skills + clinical

• Certification: California EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Paramedic pathway available

• Link: https://www.cabrillo.edu/ems/ 

14. City College of San Francisco

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Length: Semester-based

• Type: Community college

• Format: Lecture + laboratory + clinical experience

• Certification: EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Health sciences and public safety courses

• Link: https://www.ccsf.edu/degrees-certificates/emergency-medical-services 

15. WestMed College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technology/Technician

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: Certificate program under 2 years

• Format: EMS classroom + practical training

• Certification: EMT/Paramedic pathway

• Phone: 408-977-0723

• Address: 5300 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite 200, San Jose

• Link: http://www.westmedcollege.edu/ 

16. Bradford College of Nursing

• Program: EMT Basic

• Location: Stockton, CA

• Length: 184 hours

• Clinical: 24 hours of ER rotations + ambulance ride-alongs

• Format: Classroom + skills + clinical

• Certification: Prepares for NREMT exam and California EMT certification

• 2026 Start: September 14, 2026

• Link: https://bradfordcareer.org/emt-basic-emergency-medical-technician/

17. American River College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician Certificate

• Location: Sacramento, CA

• Length: 7 units

• Format: Didactic + practicum

• Certification: California EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Can lead into paramedic training

• Phone: 916-484-8902

• Link: https://arc.losrios.edu/academics/programs-majors/emergency-medical-technology

18. Vallejo Adult School / CALRegional

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Vallejo, CA

• Length: As little as 11 weeks

• Cost: $2,495 or less

• Format: Classroom + hands-on training

• Hours: 184 hours

• Externship: Guaranteed 24-hour externship

• Additional: CPR certification + national exam preparation

• Prerequisites: 18+ and high school diploma/GED/equivalent

• Link: https://vallejoadult.vcusd.org/programs/program-and-course-page/~board/programs-and-courses-new/post/emergency-medical-technician-emt

19. Contra Costa Adult Education – EMS Corps

• Program: EMT – EMS Corps

• Location: Contra Costa County, CA

• Length: Under 6 months

• Schedule: Daytime, 24 hours/week

• Format: Hybrid — online content + in-person classes

• Next Session: October 6, 2026

• Age: 18–26

• Additional: Mentorship, career development and support services

• Certification: California/NREMT EMT pathway

• Link: https://mdae.mdusd.org/programs/ctec/emt-emscorps

20. San Joaquin Delta College

• Program: Emergency Medical Technician

• Location: Stockton, CA

• Length: 12 weeks

• Format: Classroom + hands-on training

• Cost: Community-college tuition/fees

• Prerequisites: No previous experience required; must be 18+

• Certification: California EMT/NREMT pathway

• Additional: Can be a starting point for paramedic, fire, and other healthcare careers

• Phone: 209-954-5454

• Link: https://www.deltacollege.edu/academics/degrees-certificates/emergency-medical-technician-emt

MA Programs of California

1. San Mateo Adult & Career Education

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: San Mateo, CA

• Length: Includes 160-hour externship

• Cost: Financial assistance/payment plans available; contact program for current tuition

• Certification: Clinical Medical Assistant training

• Contact: Career Education Coordinator

• Phone: 650-558-2100

• Email: SMAS_CTEinfo@smuhsd.org

• Link: https://sanmateoadulted.org/programs/career-education/healthcare-education/clinical-medical-assistant/

2. Santa Clara Adult Education

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Length: 375 classroom hours + 160-hour externship

• Cost: Approximately $1,999

• Certification: NCCT

• Schedule: Morning or evening options

• Link: https://www.santaclaraadulted.org/medical-assistant-program/

3. JobTrain

• Program: Medical Assistant Training

• Location: Menlo Park / San Jose / North San Mateo County

• Length: 11–17 weeks + 160-hour externship

• Cost: Varies; program eligibility may include financial assistance

• Certification: Medical Assistant training

• San Jose location: 1600 Technology Drive

• Link: https://www.jobtrainworks.org/career-training/medical-assistant-training-program/

4. San Francisco State University

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Length: Approximately 2.5–3 months

• Training: 140 hours + clinical externship opportunity

• Cost: Approximately $2,599

• Certification: NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)

• Link: https://cpage.sfsu.edu/cma

5. Unitek College

• Program: Medical Assisting

• Locations: Fremont, Hayward, Concord, South San Francisco, Bakersfield, Ontario

• Length: As little as 9 months

• Format: Hybrid

• Cost: Varies by campus

• Externship: Yes

• Certifications: Multiple certification exam options, including NHA CCMA, NCCT NCMA, AMT RMA, and AAMA CMA

• Link: https://www.unitekcollege.edu/programs/medical-assistant/

6. CALRegional – San Jose

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: 8–10 weeks

• Cost: $2,995 or less

• Certification: CMAC

• Externship: Guaranteed 160-hour externship

• Format: Hybrid

• Prerequisites: No prior medical experience required

• Link: https://calregional.com/programs/san-jose-ca-medical-assistant-program/

7. CALRegional – Milpitas

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: Milpitas, CA

• Length: 8–10 weeks

• Cost: $2,995 or less

• Certification: CMAC

• Externship: 160 hours

• Format: Hybrid

• Link: https://calregional.com/program-category/medical-assistant-program/

8. CALRegional – Fremont

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: Fremont, CA

• Length: 8–10 weeks

• Cost: $2,995 or less

• Certification: CMAC

• Externship: 160 hours

• Format: Hybrid

• Link: https://calregional.com/program-category/medical-assistant-program/

9. CALRegional – Oakland

• Program: Clinical Medical Assistant

• Location: Oakland, CA

• Length: 8–10 weeks

• Cost: $2,995 or less

• Certification: CMAC

• Externship: 160 hours

• Format: Hybrid

• Link: https://calregional.com/program-category/medical-assistant-program/

10. Mission Language & Vocational School

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Length: Approximately 6 months

• Externship: 120 hours

• Training: Clinical + administrative

• Additional: CPR/BLS training and job placement support

• Link: https://www.mlvssf.org/medical-assistant-program

11. Pulse Medical Assistant School

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: San Bruno, CA

• Length: 16 weeks

• Format: Hybrid

• Training: 4 in-person labs

• Externship: 80 hours

• Certification: NHA CCMA

• Link: https://pulsemedicalassistantschool.com/

12. Bay Area Medical Academy (BAMA)

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Other location: San Jose offerings have been available

• Training: Clinical + administrative

• Externship: Yes

• Link: https://bamasf.edu/

13. Medical Career College

• Program: Medical Assistant Certificate

• Location: Fremont, CA

• Training: Clinical and hands-on healthcare training

• Accreditation: ABHES

• Phone: 510-445-0319

• Link: https://medcc.edu/

14. Napa Valley College

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: Napa, CA

• Training: Clinical and administrative medical assisting

• Type: College certificate program

• Link: https://www.napavalley.edu/

15. CALRegional – Other California Locations

CALRegional currently lists MA programs at numerous California locations, including Campbell, San Mateo, Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Richmond, Fairfield, Sacramento, Salinas, Sonoma, South San Francisco, Vacaville, Antioch, and others.

• Length: 8–10 weeks

• Cost: $2,995 or less

• Certification: CMAC

• Externship: 160 hours

• Link: https://calregional.com/program-category/medical-assistant-program/

16. San José City College

• Program: Medical Assisting – Clinical

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: Certificate/AS degree program; includes clinical externship

• Cost: Community college tuition; varies by enrollment/residency

• Certification: Eligible for California Certified Medical Assistant and RMA exams

• Externship: Yes

• Contact: Business & Workforce Development Division

• Phone: 408-288-3131

• Link: https://www.sjcc.edu/dept/medical-assisting.aspx

17. Goodwill of Silicon Valley

• Program: Medical Assistant Training

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: 11 weeks + 160-hour clinical externship

• Cost: Free

• Format: Hybrid

• Certification: Eligible for national NCCT certification

• Additional: CPR certification + job placement support

• Schedule: Monday–Friday

• Contact: cte@goodwillsv.org

• Link: https://goodwillsv.org/medical-assistant/

18. Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)

• Program: Medical Assistant Certificate

• Location: San Francisco Bay Area

• Length: 5 months

• Training: 10+ weeks clinical lecture/lab + 5+ weeks paid internship

• Cost: Free

• Format: Hybrid

• Internship: Paid clinical internship

• Certification: Medical Assistant Certificate + BLS

• Eligibility: Bay Area resident and age 18+

• Link: https://jvs.org/programs/medical-assistant-certificate/

19. Castro Valley Adult & Career Education

• Program: Medical Assistant

• Location: Castro Valley, CA

• Length: Varies by cohort

• Format: In-person

• Training: Phlebotomy, injections, vital signs, EKGs, specimen collection, EMR, medical terminology

• Externship: Available for qualified students

• Certification: Prepares students for State or National CMA certification

• Schedule: Evening program available

• Link: https://www.cvadult.org/careereducation

20. Campus – Sacramento (formerly MTI College)

• Program: Medical Assisting

• Location: Sacramento, CA

• Length: 33 weeks day / 37–48 weeks night

• Format: Hybrid

• Externship: 160-hour unpaid externship

• Certification: Nationally Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)

• Financial Aid: Available to those who qualify

• Next listed start: October 5, 2026

• Link: https://sacramento.campus.edu/programs/healthcare/medical-assistant

California Medical Scribe Programs 

1. Pasadena City College

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Scribe Specialist Occupational Skills Certificate

• Location: Pasadena, CA

• Cost: Varies by enrollment/units

• Length: 1 semester / 5 units

• Contact: Pasadena City College Health Sciences — 626-585-7123

• URL: https://pasadena.edu/academics/divisions/health-sciences/medical-scribe/index.php

2. Saddleback College

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Scribe Certificate of Achievement

• Location: Mission Viejo, CA

• Cost: Varies

• Length: Certificate program

• Contact: Saddleback College Health & Wellness

• URL: https://www.saddleback.edu/programs-degrees/school-health-and-wellness-programs-and-degrees/medical-scribe

3. College of the Canyons

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Scribe Certificate of Completion

• Location: Santa Clarita, CA

• Cost: Free classes

• Length: Approximately 93–114 hours

• Contact: College of the Canyons — 661-362-3304

• URL: https://www.canyons.edu/academics/schools/ppl/medicalscribe.php

4. Mt. San Jacinto College

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Assisting Clinical Certificate with medical-scribing training

• Location: Menifee / San Jacinto, CA

• Cost: Varies

• Length: 26.5 units

• Contact: MSJC Health Sciences

• URL: https://catalog.msjc.edu/instructional-programs/medical-assisting/medical-assisting-clinical-certificate/

5. Shasta College

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Scribe Certificate

• Location: Redding, CA / Online

• Cost: Approximately $1,000

• Length: Approximately 1 semester

• Contact: Shasta College — 530-242-7500

• URL: https://www.shastacollege.edu/

6. UC Merced – Professional & Continuing Education

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Scribe Specialized Training

• Location: Merced, CA / Online + in-person

• Cost: $349

• Length: 8 sessions

• Contact: UC Merced PACE

• URL: https://pace.ucmerced.edu/content/medical-scribe-specialized-training-0

7. Stanford Medicine COMET Fellowship

• Medical Scribe Training: Clinical Observation and Medical Transcription Fellowship

• Location: Stanford / Palo Alto, CA

• Cost: $8,850 for 2026–27

• Length: Approximately 13 months

• Contact: Stanford Medicine COMET

• URL: https://med.stanford.edu/comet

8. Efficient Care Learning Center

• Medical Scribe Training: Medical Assistant & Medical Scribe Certificate Program

• Location: Temecula, CA / Hemet, CA / Online

• Cost: Contact program

• Length: Approximately 4 months / 16 weeks

• Contact: Efficient Care — 951-402-4662

• URL: https://medicalassistantca.com/courses/

9. Scribes4Hire – San Jose

• Medical Scribe Training: San Jose Medical Scribe Training

• Location: San Jose, CA / Online

• Cost: Contact program

• Length: Varies

• Contact: Scribes4Hire

• URL: https://scribes4hire.com/california/san-jose-medical-scribes/

10. Scribes4Hire – California

• Medical Scribe Training: California Medical Scribe Training

• Location: California / Online

• Cost: Contact program

• Length: Varies

• Contact: Scribes4Hire

• URL: https://scribes4hire.com/california/

11. ScribeAmerica – California

• Medical Scribe Training: Scribe University + hands-on clinical training

• Location: Multiple California locations

• Cost: No separate program tuition; training is provided through employment

• Length: Varies by position

• Contact: ScribeAmerica Recruiting

• URL: https://www.scribeamerica.com/locations/

12. ScribeAmerica – Palo Alto

• Medical Scribe Training: Paid Medical Scribe Training

• Location: Palo Alto, CA

• Cost: No separate tuition

• Length: Training provided after hiring

• Contact: ScribeAmerica

• URL: https://jobs.scribeamerica.com/us/en/careers/US-413256-en-Medical-Scribe

13. ScribeAmerica – Bakersfield

• Medical Scribe Training: Paid Medical Scribe Training

• Location: Bakersfield, CA

• Cost: No separate tuition

• Length: Training provided after hiring

• Contact: ScribeAmerica

• URL: https://jobs.scribeamerica.com/us/en/careers/US-427429-en-Medical-Scribe

The Medicine section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Medical School.

The Pre-Medicine Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM). Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. 

Students completing the Pre-Medicine Track must complete the following required courses:

• One year of English
  (at Dominican: ENGL 1111 and ENGL 2222)

• One year of General Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05)

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

• One year of Physics with lab
  (at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One year of General Biology with lab
  (at Dominican: BIO 1000/05, BIO 1100/05, or BIO 2800/05)

• MCAT Prep-1 semester of Biochemistry and Psychology
  (at Dominican: CHEM 4100/05 and PSY 1100)

Medical-Allopathic: MD

Link to a list of MD Schools: AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges)

Application link to apply for MD Professional Schools: MSAR (Medical School Admission Requirements)

Entry Exam: MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) 

For more information, visit the UC Davis - School of Medicine Site and/or the UCSF - School of Medicine Site 

Medical-Osteopathic: DO

Link to a list of DO Schools: AACOM (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine)

Application to apply for DO Professional Schools: AACOM - Apply to Medical School

Entry Exam: MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test)

For more information, visit the Touro University of California - College of Osteopathic Medicine Site

Other Medical School Resources:

AAMC Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program Directory

Medical School Application Timeline Template

Medical School GPA Calculator 

What is on the MCAT? 

The Nursing section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Nursing school.

The Pre-Nursing Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. 

For more information, visit the Dominican University of CA Nursing Site. 

Nursing School Resources:

Accelerated Nursing Program Info - RegisteredNursing.org

Accelerated Nursing Programs in CA - NursingProcess.org

SF State Masters in Entry Level Nursing (ELMSN) 

Admissions Requirements for Direct Master's Entry to Nursing Practice Programs

The Pharmacy section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Pharmacy school.

Pre-Pharmacy Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Pre-Pharmacy advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Pharmacy Track must complete the following required courses:

Option 1:

• One year of General Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05 )

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

Option 2: 

• One semester of General Chemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05)

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

• One semester of Biochemistry with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 4100/05)

Other required courses:

• One semester of Human Physiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 4600/05)

• One semester of Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 3610/15)

• One semester of  Calculus 

(at Dominican: MATH 1600)

For more information, visit Touro University of CA - College of Pharmacy Site 

Pharmacy School Resources:

Click to view a List of Pharmacy Schools

Application to apply for Pharmacy Schools: PharmCAS (Pharmacy College Application Service) 

Entry Test Used: PCAT (Pharmacy College Admissions Test)

Note: CA Pharmacy Schools do not require PCAT.

California Pharmacy Technician Programs 

1. Foothill College

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate

• Location: Los Altos Hills, CA

• Length: 9 months

• Format: In-person/college-based

• Externship: Included

• Accreditation: ASHP/ACPE

• Certification: Prepares students for California registration and pharmacy technician employment

• Link: https://foothill.edu/pharmacy-technology/

2. Mission College

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Length: 34 weeks

• Format: Classroom + laboratory + externship

• Externship: Required

• Cost: Noncredit pharmacy-tech courses have no tuition/fees

• Certification: California licensing + PTCB preparation

• Phone: 408-855-5131

• Link: https://missioncollege.edu/academics/pharmacy-technician/index.html

3. Carrington College

• Program: Pharmacy Technology

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: As few as 9 months

• Format: Career-training program

• Training: Pharmacy technology + hands-on training

• Certification: Prepares students for applicable certification/licensure exams

• Link: https://carrington.edu/location/san-jose-california/

4. San Mateo Adult & Career Education

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Training

• Location: San Mateo, CA

• Format: Live online instruction

• Externship: Qualifying students can complete a clinical externship at a local pharmacy

• Contact: Career Education Coordinator

• Phone: 650-558-2100

• Email: SMAS_CTEinfo@smuhsd.org

• Link: https://sanmateoadulted.org/programs/career-education/healthcare-education/pharmacy-technician-training-program/

5. Mission Valley ROP

• Program: Adult Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Fremont, CA

• Length: 7 months

• Format: Hybrid — 3 days in person + 1 day Zoom

• Externship: 120-hour in-person externship

• Total Training: 327.5 hours

• Cost: Contact program

• Phone: 510-657-1865

• Link: https://www.mvrop.org/for-students/adult-students/adult-pharmacy-technician-course

6. City College of San Francisco

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate of Achievement

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Length: Approximately 9 months / 2 semesters

• Format: Online coursework + in-person labs

• Clinical: 240 hours

• Certification: PTCB pathway

• Licensing: California Pharmacy Technician license pathway

• Link: https://www.ccsf.edu/degrees-certificates/pharmacy-technician

7. Cosumnes River College

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate

• Location: Sacramento, CA

• Format: Didactic + laboratory + practicum

• Externship/Practicum: Included

• Accreditation: ASHP

• Certification: Eligible for PTCE

• Licensing: California State Board of Pharmacy registration pathway

• Link: https://crc.losrios.edu/2026-2027-official-catalog/programs-of-study/list-of-programs/pharmacy-technology

8. San Bernardino Valley College

• Program: Pharmacy Technology Certificate

• Location: San Bernardino, CA

• Length: 2 semesters

• Format: Classroom + clinical

• Externship: Included

• Estimated Cost: Approximately $2,400

• Certification: Pharmacy technician certification pathway

• Additional: PharmTech-to-PharmD pathway available

• Phone: 909-384-4450

• Link: https://www.valleycollege.edu/academics/pathways/hwa/pharmacy-technology/program-brochure.php

9. Santa Ana College

• Program: Pharmacy Technology

• Location: Santa Ana, CA

• Basic Certificate: 16.5–20.5 units

• Advanced Certificate: 24–30 units

• Externship: 120 hours basic + additional 200 hours for advanced

• Accreditation: Advanced program is ASHP accredited

• Certification: PTCB preparation

• Licensing: California Board of Pharmacy requirements

• Link: https://sac.edu/programs/pharmacy-tech-cert

10. College of the Sequoias

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate of Achievement

• Location: Visalia, CA

• Length: Certificate program

• Format: Classroom + laboratory + externship

• Externship: Required

• Accreditation: ASHP

• Certification: PTCB eligible

• Licensing: California Pharmacy Technician license pathway

• Contact: Angela Iniguez

• Phone: 559-737-6135

• Link: https://www.cos.edu/en-us/academics/nursing-allied-health/pharmacy-technician

11. California State University, East Bay

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate

• Location: Online

• Format: Online

• Training: Pharmacy law, terminology, calculations, pharmacology, inventory, lab and clinical rotations

• Certification: Certificate of completion

• Link: https://ce.csueastbay.edu/programs/pharmacy-technician/

12. California State University, Los Angeles

• Program: Pharmacy Technician Online Program

• Location: Online

• Length: 50 hours

• Cost: $1,399

• Format: Live online

• Certification: Certificate of Completion

• PTCB: Prepares for PTCE

• Note: Program states it is not accredited

• Link: https://www.calstatela.edu/page/pharmacy-technician-online-program

13. College of the Canyons

• Program: Pharmacy Technology

• Location: Santa Clarita, CA

• Length: 2 semesters

• Format: Blended — online classes + on-campus labs

• Externship: Required

• Units: 18.5

• Certification: PTCE pathway

• Licensing: California Pharmacy Technician license pathway

• Link: https://www.canyons.edu/academics/pharmacytech/

14. West Los Angeles College

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Culver City, CA

• Length: Less than 1 year for basic certificate

• Format: College-based

• Externship: Included

• Advanced Training: Hospital/clinical and sterile-product training

• Certification: Basic + Advanced Certificate options and AS degree

• Licensing: California Pharmacy Technician license pathway

• Phone: 310-287-7289

• Link: https://www.wlac.edu/academics/aos/pharmacy-technician

15. Los Angeles Mission College

• Program: Basic Pharmacy Technician Certificate

• Location: Sylmar, CA

• Length: 40 weeks

• Format: College program

• Cost: Approximately $3,518

• Certification: Pharmacy technician training

• Licensing: California State Board of Pharmacy pathway

• Additional: Associate degree option available

• Link: https://www.lamc.edu/academics/aos/pharm-tech

16. Lynwood Community Adult School

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Lynwood, CA

• Length: 15.5 weeks

• Format: Hybrid — 2 days online + 2 days in person

• Cost: $2,995

• Externship: 120 hours — guaranteed placement

• Training: 182 hours online + hands-on training

• Certification: PTCB preparation

• Link: https://lcas.mylusd.org/what-can-i-study/career-training-options/pharmacy-technician

17. ABC Adult School

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Cerritos, CA

• Length: Approximately 12 months

• Cost: Approximately $1,751

• Training: Pharmacy practice, calculations, pharmacology, medication and externship

• Externship: 120 hours

• Certification: PTCB + California licensing pathway

• Phone: 562-229-7960

• Link: https://www.abcadultschool.edu/pharmacy-technician/

18. Vista Adult School

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Vista, CA

• Length: 18 weeks

• Format: Blended/online + in-person

• Schedule: Current listed cohort Aug. 24, 2026–Jan. 22, 2027

• Training: Retail + hospital pharmacy preparation

• Licensing: California Pharmacy Technician license pathway

• Link: https://www.vistaadultschool.org/pathways/pharmacy-technician

19. Riverside Adult School

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Riverside, CA

• Length: January 5–May 28, 2027 for the listed upcoming cohort

• Format: In person

• Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–4 PM

• Certification: Prepares students for California Pharmacy Technician licensure

• Link: https://ras.riversideunified.org/career-education

20. Las Positas College

• Program: Pharmacy Technician

• Location: Livermore, CA / online

• Format: Live online

• Length: Approximately 6 months

• Externship: 120 hours

• Certification: PTCE preparation

• Licensing: California Board of Pharmacy training pathway

• Link: https://communityed.laspositascollege.edu/laspositas/course/course.aspx?catId=7

California Phlebotomy Programs 

1. Phlebotomy Training Specialists — San Jose

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: 40-hour classroom program + 40-hour externship

• Format: In-person

• Cost: About $2,795 based on the currently listed San Jose enrollment

• Certification: National exam preparation; California CPT I pathway

• Phone: 888-531-8378

• Official link: https://phlebotomyusa.com/locations/san-jose/

• CA approved: Yes

2. Phlebotomy Training Specialists — Santa Clara

• Location: Santa Clara, CA

• Length: 40-hour classroom program + 40-hour externship

• Format: In-person

• Cost: About $2,795

• Certification: National exam preparation; California CPT I pathway

• Phone: 888-531-8378

• Official link: https://phlebotomyusa.com/locations/santa-clara/

• CA approved: Yes

3. CALRegional — San Jose

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Length: 3–12 weeks, depending on schedule/location

• Cost: $1,495–$2,995

• Format: In-person/hybrid

• Externship: 40-hour externship included

• Certification: Phlebotomy Technician Certification through AMCA

• Phone: 800-927-5159

• Official link: https://calregional.com/program-category/phlebotomy-technician-program/

• CA approved: Yes

4. CALRegional — Fremont

• Location: Fremont, CA

• Length: 3–12 weeks

• Cost: $1,495–$2,995

• Format: In-person/hybrid

• Externship: 40 hours

• Certification: Phlebotomy Technician Certification

• Official link: https://calregional.com/program-category/phlebotomy-technician-program/

• CA approved: Yes

5. Bay Area Medical Academy — San Jose

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Training: Phlebotomy Technician

• Format: In-person

• Training: Classroom/lab + clinical externship

• Certification: California CPT I pathway

• Phone: 408-780-0887

• Official link: https://bamasf.edu/

• CA approved: Yes — San Jose is listed by CDPH.

6. AUMT Institute — Alameda

• Location: Alameda, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician CPT I

• Format: Hands-on training

• Training: Basic + advanced phlebotomy

• Externship: Included

• Certification: National certification + California CPT I pathway

• Phone: 833-510-1501

• Official link: https://www.aumtinstitute.org/aumtprograminquiry

• CA approved: Yes

7. Castro Valley Adult & Career Education

• Location: Castro Valley, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy

• Format: Adult/career education

• Training: Phlebotomy fundamentals and clinical skills

• Certification: California pathway

• Official link: https://www.cvadult.org/careereducation

• CA approved: Yes

8. Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts — San Mateo

• Location: San Mateo, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Format: Career training

• Training: Phlebotomy and clinical skills

• Certification: California CPT pathway

• Official link: https://www.gurnick.edu/

• CA approved: Yes — San Mateo is on the CDPH list.

9. Health Career College

• Location: Pleasant Hill, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Format: Career training

• Training: Phlebotomy theory + hands-on skills

• Certification: California phlebotomy pathway

• Official link: https://www.healthcareercollege.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

10. City College of San Francisco

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy

• Format: Community college

• Training: Phlebotomy/clinical laboratory training

• Certification: California pathway

• Official link: https://www.ccsf.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

11. East Side Adult Education

• Location: San Jose, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy

• Format: Adult education

• Training: Basic + advanced phlebotomy

• Certification: California CPT I pathway

• Official link: https://www.esuhsd.org/adult-education/

• CA approved: Yes

12. South San Francisco Adult Education

• Location: South San Francisco, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy

• Format: Adult education

• Training: Basic + advanced phlebotomy

• Certification: California CPT I pathway

• Official link: https://www.ssfusd.org/adult-education

• CA approved: Yes

13. Contra Costa Medical Career College

• Location: Antioch, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician I

• Length: 4, 5, or 10 weeks depending on option

• Clock hours: 120

• Format: Classroom + practical training

• Certification: California certification pathway

• Phone: 925-757-2900

• Official link: https://ccmcc.edu/phlebotomy-technician-1/

• CA approved: Yes

14. Central Coast College

• Location: Salinas, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Length: 12 weeks

• Format: Hands-on training

• Training: Blood-drawing techniques + specimen handling

• Certification: California state certification pathway

• Phone: 831-424-6767

• Official link: https://centralcoastcollege.edu/program/phlebotomy-technician/

• CA approved: Yes

15. Abrams College

• Location: Modesto, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Format: Career training

• Training: Phlebotomy theory + hands-on clinical training

• Certification: California phlebotomy pathway

• Official link: https://abramscollege.com/

• CA approved: Yes

16. Quest Nursing Education Center

• Location: Oakland, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Format: In-person

• Training: Phlebotomy technician training

• 2026 classes: Aug. 3–31 and Nov. 9–Dec. 11 currently listed

• Externship: Listed as part of the schedule

• Phone: 510-452-1444

• Official link: https://questnursingschool.com/

• CA approved: Yes

17. RedLine Medical Training Center

• Location: Novato, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician Certification

• Format: In-person

• Schedules: Morning, evening, or weekend

• Externship: Included/placement provided

• Certification: AMCA Phlebotomy Technician exam preparation

• Phone: 415-798-8838

• Official link: https://www.redlinemtc.com/phlebotomy

• CA approved: Yes

18. Northern California Nursing Academy

• Location: Daly City, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy

• Format: In-person

• Training: Basic + advanced phlebotomy

• Certification: California CPT pathway

• Official link: https://www.ncna.edu/

• CA approved: Yes

19. AUMT Institute — Livermore

• Location: Livermore, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician CPT I

• Format: Hands-on

• Training: Basic + advanced phlebotomy

• Externship: Included

• Certification: California CPT I pathway

• Official link: https://www.aumtinstitute.org/aumtprograminquiry

• CA approved: Yes — Livermore is specifically listed by CDPH.

20. CALRegional — Milpitas

• Location: Milpitas, CA

• Program: Phlebotomy Technician

• Length: 3–12 weeks

• Cost: $1,495–$2,995

• Format: In-person/hybrid

• Externship: 40-hour externship

• Certification: Phlebotomy Technician Certification

• Official link: https://calregional.com/program-category/phlebotomy-technician-program/

• CA approved: Yes — CALRegional lists Milpitas as a current program location, and the CDPH list includes its approved programs/locations.

The Physical Therapy section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Physical Therapy school.

The Pre-Physical Therapy Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Pre-Physical Therapy advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Physical Therapy Track must complete the following required courses:

• One semester of Human Anatomy with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2500/05 or BIO 4500/05)

• One semester of Human Physiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2600/05 or BIO 4600/05)

• One year of Psychology 

(at Dominican: PSY 1100 and PSY 1150)

• One semester of Statistics
  (at Dominican: MATH 3500, GPH 3330, or PSY 3817)

• One year of Physics with lab
  (at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One year of General Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05)

• One semester of Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology

(at Dominican: KIN 1000 and KIN 3600)

One semester of Medical Terminology

 (at Dominican: BIO 3020)

For more information, visit the Sac State Physical Therapy Admission Requirements Site.

Physical Therapy School Resources:

Click to view a List of PT Schools

Application to apply for Physical Therapy Schools: PTCAS (Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service)

Entry Test Used: GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The Physician Assistant (PA) section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Physician Assistant school.

The Pre-PA Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Dominican University of CA offers a PA Masters Degree Program. Pre-PA advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Physician Assistant Track must complete the following required courses:

• Two semesters of General Biology with lab
  (at Dominican: 2 of these classes work: BIO 1000/05, BIO 1100/05, BIO 2800/05, and BIO 2900/05)

• One year of General Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05)

• One year of Human Anatomy with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2500/05 or BIO 4500/05)

• One semester of Human Physiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2600/05 or BIO 4600/05)

• One semester of Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 3610/15)

• One semester of College Algebra or higher

(at Dominican: MATH 1400, MATH 1500, MATH 1600, or MATH 1700)

• One semester of Statistics

(at Dominican: MATH 2400 or MATH 3500)

• One semester of General Psychology

(at Dominican: PSY 1100)

Highly recommended courses:

• One semester of Physics with lab

(at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05)

• One  semester of Organic Chemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05

• One  semester of Medical Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 3620/05)

• One  semester of Pharmacology

• One  semester of Spanish (able to converse)

(at Dominican: SPAN 2111)

• One semester of Medical Terminology 

(at Dominican: BIO 3020)

Just a quick recap:

• Direct Patient Contact Hours: Think of it like being a medical team player! You need at least 500 hours working with patients in roles like a paramedic, phlebotomist, nurse, or medical assistant.

• Physician Assistant Shadowing: Imagine getting a behind-the-scenes look at a PA's day. You'll need at least 8 hours of shadowing or working alongside a PA.

Remember, these are just the minimums. To be competitive, it's usually helpful to have more experience in these areas.

Link to: MSPAS PREREQUISITES WORKSHEET

For more information, visit the Dominican University of CA Physician Assistant Studies Program Site

Physician Assistant School Resources:

Click to view a List of PA Schools

Application to apply for PA Schools: CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants 

Entry Test Used: GRE, MCAT, and/or PA-CAT (Physician Assistant College Admissions Test) 

San Francisco Bay Area Resources: SF Bay Area PA Shadowing Program

Note: Required entry test(s) may depend on the program(s) the student is applying to. 

The Occupational Therapy (OT) section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Occupational Therapy school.

The Pre-OT Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Dominican University of CA offers an OT Masters Degree Program and a Doctorate Degree Program. Pre-OT advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Occupational Therapy Track must complete the following required courses:

• One year of Human Anatomy with lab 

(at Dominican: BIO 2500/05 or BIO 4500/05)

• One semester of Human Physiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2600/05 or BIO 4600/05)

• One semester of Introduction to Psychology

(at Dominican: PSY 1100)

• One semester of Abnormal Psychology

(at Dominican: PSY 3141)

• One semester of Statistics for Health & Behavior Sciences

(at Dominican: PSY 3187)

• One semester of Child and Adolescent Development

(at Dominican: PSY 3119)

• One semester of Human Neuroanatomy and Physiology

(at Dominican: OT 3010)

• One semester of Medical Terminology

(at Dominican: BIO 3020)

Occupational Therapy School Resources:

Click to view a List of OT Schools 

Application to apply for OT School: Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (OTCAS)

Entry Test Used: GRE

Prerequisite Courses

Minimum 3.0 GPA on prerequisite courses is recommended. Up to three incomplete prerequisites are allowed at the time of application submission. Students with a GPA lower than a 3.0 on prerequisite courses should include a statement describing their academic readiness in the optional response field at time of application.

1. Human Anatomy with lab (completed within the last 5 years)

2. Human Physiology with lab (completed within the last 5 years)

3. Lifespan Development (or Developmental Psychology).

4. Introduction to Psychology

5. Abnormal Psychology (Psychopathology)

6. Statistics (math or psychology only, not business)

7. Medical Terminology (1 unit or more)

The Optometry section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Optometry school.

Pre-Optometry Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Pre-Optometry advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Optometry Track must complete the following required courses:

• One year of General Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05)

• One semester of Organic Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05)

• One semester of Biochemistry with or without lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 4100/05)

• One year of General Biology with lab
  (at Dominican: BIO 1100/05 and BIO 2800/05)

• One year of Physics with lab
  (at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One semester of Microbiology with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 3610/15)

• One semester of Human Anatomy with lab

(at Dominican: BIO 2500/05 or BIO 4500/05)

• One semester of Human Physiology with lab 

(at Dominican: BIO 2600/05 or BIO 4600/05)

• One semester of Calculus

(at Dominican: MATH 1600)

• One semester of Statistics: 

(at Dominican: MATH 2400 or MATH 3500)

• One year of Reading and Composition

(at Dominican: ENGL 1111 and ENGL 2222)

• One semester of Psychology

(at Dominican: PSY 1100)

For more information, visit the UC Berkeley School of Optometry Course Requirements Site 

Optometry School Resources:

Click to view a List of Optometry Schools

Application to apply to Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS)

Entry Test Used: OAT (Optometry Admission Test)

The Veterinary section is for students who are interested in studying science with the goal of attending Veterinary school.

The Pre-Veterinary Track requirements are based on admissions requirements from most health professional schools. Always check the individual school’s website for updated information. Pre-PA advising is offered through the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Contact the Student Services Administrator, Victoria Worch, to make an appointment.

Students completing the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Track must complete the following required courses:

• One year of Physics with lab

(at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One year of General Biology

(at Dominican: BIO 1100/05 and BIO 2800/05)

• One year of General Chemistry

(at Dominican: CHEM 2000/05 and CHEM 2100/05)

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

• One semester of Statistics: 

(at Dominican: MATH 2400 or MATH 3500)

• One semester of Biochemistry with Metabolism

(at Dominican: KIN 3450)

• One semester of Upper-Division Genetics

(at Dominican: BIO 3200)

• One semester of Animal Physiology

(at Dominican: BIO 4110)

For more information, go to UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Academic Preparation & Prerequisite Site

Veterinary School Resources

Click to view a List of Veterinary Schools 

Application to apply for Veterinary School: Veterinary Medical School Admission Requirements (VMSAR)

Entry Test Used: GRE 

Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC)

How to apply - AAVMC

For students who are interested in research programs or teaching at a college or university level where a Master's or Ph.D. degree is required.

Students completing the Masters of Science in Biological Sciences Track and many other masters and research programs must complete the following required courses:

• One year of General Biology with lab
  (at Dominican: BIO 1100/05 and BIO 2800/05)

• One year of Calculus:

(at Dominican: MATH 1600 and MATH 1700)

• One year of Physics with lab
  (at Dominican: PHYS 2000/05 and PHYS 2100/05)

• One year of Organic Chemistry with lab
  (at Dominican: CHEM 3800/05 and CHEM 3900/05)

• One semester of Biochemistry with lab

(at Dominican: CHEM 4100/05)

• One semester of Statistics

• (at Dominican: MATH 3500, GPH 3330, or PSY 3187)

For more information, review the Graduate Degree Program Requirements

Biological Sciences:

Click the link to view a List of Biology Programs from GradSchools.com  

Visit the Dominican University of CA MS Biological Sciences Program.

Chemistry:

Click the link to view a List of Chemistry Programs from GradSchools.com  

Explore ACS (American Chemistry Society) Education 

Summer Research: 

The National Science Foundation (NSF) offers a program for undergraduate students to gain research experience. The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) allows students to spend 6-8 weeks at a research-intensive institution. Students are granted stipends and, in many cases, assistance with housing and travel. Visit the Search for an REU Site to find a list of research institutions participating in the program.