Frequently Asked Questions

(1) Why isn't the Biomedical Science major listed on the OSU Freshman Application for Admission?
Because the major is limited to students in the OSU honors program and because there is a seperate application process for admission to this major, you will not find the major listed on the freshman application.  When applying to OSU, choose another major that interests you or "Allied Medical Professions-Undecided."  If you apply to the Biomedical Science major and are accepted, your major will be changed to Biomedical Science once you accept your spot in the program.

(2) What are you looking for in applicants?
Students who have a strong interest in learning about and participating in biomedical research.  Students who enjoy a challenge and want to learn with other high ability students.  Students who have excellent grades and standardized test scores.  Students who have demonstrated a love of science by participating in science fairs, summer science programs, research projects, etc.  Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in groups is a neccessity for our students.  Lastly, we expect applicants to have attended one of our recruitment events or met with us prior to application.

(3) How can I make my application most attractive?
Let us see who you are!  Give honest and thoughtful responses to the short answer questions; do not just tell us what you think we want to hear (which will make your answers sound generic.)  While it is normal to have parents and other adults review your responses, make sure they are your responses.  Don't apply at the last minute; give yourself time to develop thoughful responses.  Focus on quality, not quantity when completing your resume.  We want to know what extra-curricular activities have meant the most to you. 

(4) My high school doesn't offer AP classes; will I be at a disadvantage for admission?
No.  When reviewing your transcript, we research what the curriculum is at your high school, and we want to see that you took the most challenging curriculum that was offered to you. 

(5) What types of test scores and GPAs do students who are admitted to the major typically have?
Our average ACT is 32; our average SAT (critical reasoning + math) is 1400.  We unweight GPAs and recalculate them to a 4.0 scale; the average GPA for admitted students is 3.9.  Keep in mind that these are AVERAGES...some students are higher, some are lower.  Test scores and GPAs are just two of many factors that we consider when reviewing applications.  The interview is by far the most important factor we use. 

(6) Can this major be completed while participating in the Early Admission Pathway (EAP) for Medical School?
Definitely if plan to do four years of undergraduate work.  Depending on how many college credits you earn in high school, it may be challenging to complete the Biomedical Science major in three years.  If you are accepted into the EAP and the Biomedical Science Major, we encourage you to meet with us before deciding to do both programs so we can develop a tentative play of study.

(7) Do students in the Biomedical Science Major have any advantage when applying to the OSU Medical School?
Yes and No.  When applying to the Medical School, Biomedical Science students do not receive any type of "bonus points" or special consideration just because of the major.  However, if students take full advanteage of the opportunities in this program, we feel they will be attractive to not only the medical school at OSU, but medical schools nationwise (not to mention graduate research programs, dental schools, optometry schools, etc.)  The opportunity to engage in research and present your findings, the opportunity to participate in physician shadowing programs, and the opportunity to enhance your communication skills thourgh coursework and outside activities all combine to make you a stronger applicant to medical schools.  Of course the most important part of any medical school application is your grade point average and standardized test scores, and only you can control those.

(8) Is the Biomedical Science Major more challenging then other majors at OSU?
The number of hours required to graduate (181) is actually less then the required number for many other majors at OSU.  The Biomedical Science coursework is challenging, but at a level appropriate for high ability college students who want to pursue a career in healthcare.  While we expect students in the major to take their studies seriously, we also hope they will engage in activities outside of this major, such as intramural sports, student government, a student organization, etc.

(9) How are Biomedical Science students assigned to a research lab?
There is a list of professors who are interested in having a Biomedical Science students in their labs on a secure website.  When students are ready to start in a lab, they begin contacting the professors and arrange for interviews.  Students are encouraged to visit a variety of labs before deciding on one.

(10)  On the Scheduling Plan, it only lists research during the Junior year.  Can Biomedical Science students do more then one year of research?
Absolutely!  All students will be highly encouraged to continue their research through their senior year.  It will also be possible for students to start their research as early as their freshman year, provided they are doing well in their coursework.

(11) What is a "priority" deadline?
Meeting a priority deadline means you will be given top consideration for admission and scholarships.  Students can apply after the priority deadline, but they will be admitted on a space-available basis.   The priority deadline for the Biomedical Science major is December 1st.

Have more questions?  Contact us!