Pre-Professional Pathway Tracks
Northwest Suburban College’s pre-professional pathways allow students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biology or a Bachelor of Health Science while preparing for advanced professional study, with opportunities to begin earning credits as early as high school. Pathways such as Pre-Medicine, Healthcare Management, and Pre-Pharmacy provide a strong foundation for professional school or career advancement after graduation. Whether your goal is medical school, dental school, or healthcare leadership, NWSC prepares you with the academic foundation and guidance needed for your next step.
High School Student Pathway
High school seniors can begin working toward a career in healthcare by choosing one of two options:
1. Complete the Medical Assistant Certificate program during senior year to gain hands-on clinical experience, then continue into the Bachelor of Science in Biology.
2. Start taking general education college courses to start working toward the Bachelor of Science in Biology or Bachelor of Health Science.
Both options offer flexible Saturday schedules designed to fit the needs of high school students.
Pre-Medicine Pathway
With the Bachelor of Science in Biology as the foundation, this pathway prepares students for medical school by emphasizing rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics. Students receive guidance on MCAT preparation, clinical exposure, and medical school applications.
Healthcare Management Pathway
Designed for students interested in healthcare leadership, this pathway develops skills in operations, finance, policy, and team management across healthcare settings. This academic foundation is supported by the Bachelor of Health Science with a focus on administrative roles in healthcare systems.
Public Health Pathway
Grounded in the Bachelor of Health Science, this pathway focuses on epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and health promotion. With an emphasis on population health and prevention, students are prepared for careers in public health or advanced study.
Pre-Pharmacy Pathway
Built on the Bachelor of Science in Biology, students complete coursework in pharmacology, biochemistry, and microbiology while preparing for PharmD programs. This approach develops an understanding of drug mechanisms and healthcare systems while preparing for pharmacy school admission.
Pre-Chiropractic Pathway
Through focused study in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and biomechanics, students prepare for Doctor of Chiropractic programs and careers centered on musculoskeletal health and wellness. This preparation is built on the Bachelor of Science in Biology and emphasizes professional readiness.
Pre-Dentistry Pathway
Students interested in dentistry build a strong science foundation in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry while preparing for dental school. Their training is supporting by the Bachelor of Science in Biology, with an emphasis on hands-on skills, patient care, and Dental Admission Test preparation.
Pre-Physician Assistant Pathway
Beginning with the Medical Assistant Certificate program or the Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting, students gain hands-on clinical experience before completing the Bachelor of Science in Biology. This progression provides real-world experience and preparation for PA school applications.
Pre-Podiatry Pathway
Focused on the study of lower-extremity anatomy, physiology, pathology, and general medical sciences, this pathway prepares students for podiatric medical school. This preparation builds on the Bachelor of Science in Biology and includes clinical experience and guidance for professional program applications.
Pre-Optometry Pathway
Through the study of biology, physics, and anatomy, students develop a strong foundation in vision science. The Bachelor of Science in Biology supports this pathway, along with advising for the Optometry Admission Test and professional program readiness.
Allied Health Pathway
For healthcare professionals ready to take the next step, this pathway supports career growth into leadership and coordination roles. The Bachelor of Health Science helps to build leadership skills and healthcare systems knowledge while offering flexibility to working students.