Pre-Health Professions Program
Why Pursue Healthcare at UNC Asheville?
Preparation for doctoral level and other professional programs in health care is available at UNC Asheville. Students can major in the natural sciences, social sciences, and traditional humanities disciplines; or they may transcend traditional disciplines and create their own individual degree program. At UNC Asheville we believe that an undergraduate liberal arts education, coupled with a strong research component, is the best foundation for advanced studies in the health professions. Students need breadth, depth of knowledge, and experience in order to better understand their patients and relate to their peers in the chosen health profession.
Undergraduate Coursework
UNC Asheville emphasizes a strong liberal arts curriculum as the best preparation for medical, dental, veterinary and pharmacy programs. Accordingly, students interested in these fields major in a wide range of academic disciplines at UNC Asheville, and our graduates have gained admission to some of the best professional schools in the nation. Advisors in the Pre-Health Professions program encourage and support students through a variety of pre-health professions experiences
Broaden Your Understanding of the Human Experience
At UNC Asheville, the Pre-Health program goes beyond the science of medicine to help you understand the full complexity of the human experience. While scientific knowledge is essential, true healthcare begins with empathy, psychology, and the ability to connect with others on a deeper level. Our program encourages you to explore the emotional, social, and cultural dimensions of health, equipping you with the skills to listen, understand, and approach patients as individuals. By developing a well-rounded perspective, you’ll be prepared to care for the whole person, not just their condition.
Clinical Shadowing
Clinical shadowing offers you the invaluable opportunity to gain real-world insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals. By observing physicians, nurses, and other practitioners in various settings, you'll not only deepen your understanding of medical practices but also see firsthand the importance of communication, empathy, and collaboration in patient care. This hands-on experience allows you to connect classroom learning with real-life applications, helping you to develop critical thinking skills and a clearer sense of your future path in healthcare.