Cal Poly provides robust advising and resources for all students and alumni preparing for careers in the health professions. The Bailey College of Science and Mathematics Student Services team is committed to guiding students throughout their academic journey as they prepare for post-baccalaureate health professional programs. Because admission to these programs is highly competitive, students are strongly encouraged to begin seeking advising early, to understand how to build a strong, well-rounded applicant profile.
Pre-health advising supports students in exploring health-related careers and preparing for graduate and professional programs. Students should start by meeting with Pre-Health Peer Advisors—trained upper-division students who offer general guidance on health career pathways, prerequisite coursework, gaining clinical and volunteer experience, and utilizing campus resources.
As students approach their application year, they should transition to working with professional staff advisors. Professional advisors provide individualized guidance on topics such as course planning, application timelines, personal statement development, interview preparation, and school selection—ensuring students are well-prepared and competitive applicants.
Pre-Health Related Courses
Cal Poly offers health-related courses to assist students who are interested in exploring a health professions career. Please see course descriptions below.
SCM 1101 Introduction to Health Profession Careers
SCM 3301 Application Strategies and Preparation for Health Profession Programs
SCM 3363 Pre-Health Shadowing Fieldwork
BIO 3331 Service Learning in the Health Professions