Undergraduate Education 

Students applying for admission to the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine (MCOM) M.D. program must complete the requirements for a bachelor’s degree at a regionally accredited U.S. university or college by the time of matriculation. In addition, all prerequisites must be completed from a U.S. regionally accredited institution by the time of matriculation into the MCOM. Required coursework may not be taken as Pass/Fail.  Exceptions to the coursework requirement may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants who are currently pursuing a graduate or professional degree are obligated to complete all degree requirements prior to matriculation into the M.D. program. 

Basic Science Requirements

Below are the following course requirements and recommendations:

Biological Science with laboratory: At least two semesters with lab at the college or university level. This must include core concepts of the biological sciences. If a student has taken basic biological sciences through high school dual enrollment or AP courses, then they will be strongly encouraged to obtain two semesters of other biological sciences at the college or university level.

Strong consideration will be given to students who enroll and complete molecular biology, genetics, and/or microbiology. 

Chemistry with laboratory: At least two semesters at the college or university level. This must include core concepts of the chemical sciences. If a student has taken basic chemistry through high school dual enrollment or AP courses, then they will be strongly encouraged to obtain two semesters of other chemical sciences at the college or university level.

Organic Chemistry with laboratory: At least one semester at the college or university level.  Organic Chemistry II may be taken in lieu of Biochemistry.

Biochemistry Principles:  At least one semester at the college or university level.

Physics with laboratory: At least two semesters of basic principles of physics, with at least one semester at the college or university level. If a student has taken physics with laboratory through high school dual enrollment or AP courses, then they will be strongly encouraged to obtain one semester at the college or university level. 

Mathematics: At least two semesters of mathematics, with at least one semester at the college or university level. If a student has taken mathematics through high school dual enrollment or AP courses, then they will be strongly encouraged to obtain one semester at the college or university level. Courses in statistics and /or calculus are recommended. 

English or Expository Writing: Writing skills are very important to the work of the physician. At least two semesters of English courses, or one course of English and one course that has as its basis a substantial experience in expository writing, is required. Both semesters must be taken at the college or university level. 

Other Recommendations: In recognition of the increasing importance of a broad education that includes the humanities and behavioral sciences, students should have evidence of having mastered general principles in the fields of psychology, sociology, the arts and humanities, and ethics. While many college courses will fulfill these general educational requirements, we recommend no less than 15 semester hours of general coursework in these areas. Using our holistic approach to determining suitability for admission to medical school a broad undergraduate education, research, and independent scholarly activity are strongly encouraged.

Electives

Students should select subjects that broaden their educational experiences and help meet their educational goals.

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities and employment, both during the undergraduate academic year and the summers, are important contributions to an individual's development. Experience in medical and paramedical areas can contribute to an understanding of healthcare delivery systems and help solidify the student's motivation to study medicine. Volunteering and community service provide insight to the humanistic nature of an applicant.

Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)

The MCAT is required for admission and must be taken within three years PRIOR to entry to the MD Program. MCAT scores older than three years may be considered for admission to the USF Health MD Programs, on a case-by-case basis. 

The latest MCAT test that is accepted for the 2024-2025 admissions application cycle is September 10, 2024. Exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.