Students who want to become medical doctors (MD and DO), veterinarians, dentists, optometrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and podiatrists can choose any undergraduate major. Here is some information to help you as you research your graduate school options.

If you are a degree-seeking student at UA Little Rock:
“Pre-health” is not a major so you will need to choose a major to be connected with an academic advisor. We have some preliminary information to help you choose a major that will meet your needs.

If you are a non-degree seeking student at UA Little Rock (i.e. just taking a few classes):
If you are not seeking a degree at UA Little Rock, you will not have an academic advisor. Instead, you will need to contact the academic department providing the course(s) you want for assistance in registering. If you aren’t sure what classes to take, it is best to contact an admissions rep with the program(s) you will be applying to – they can review your transcripts and let you know what classes you need.

If you want to transfer to UAMS to complete a bachelor’s degree at UAMS:
If you are transferring to UAMS to become a radiology technician, respiratory therapist, dental hygienist, etc., you will be advised by in the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education.

Explore Advanced Health Career Pathways with UA Little Rock and Arkansas Colleges of Health Education

Starting in Fall 2024, UA Little Rock students have a unique opportunity through a new partnership with Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) to secure an admission interview for any on-site program at ACHE. This agreement supports students in advancing their education and careers in high-demand healthcare fields such as medicine, physical therapy, and public health, recognizing their academic achievements and commitment.

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

  • Guaranteed Admission Interviews: Eligible UA Little Rock students who meet specific program criteria, including a minimum GPA, completion of prerequisite coursework, and relevant academic or professional experiences, are guaranteed an admission interview with ACHE, enhancing their pathway to advanced health degrees.
  • Exclusive Networking Opportunities: This partnership includes campus visits, networking events, and opportunities for UA Little Rock students to meet ACHE program leaders, admissions staff, and current students.
  • Support for Career Goals: This agreement reflects both institutions’ dedication to increasing access to health education and facilitating clear pathways for students to succeed in healthcare professions.
  • Programs Available for Pathway Admission: Programs include the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), doctoral programs in Physical Therapy (DPT) and Occupational Therapy (OTD), and a master’s degree in Biomedicine with various concentrations.

Learn More and Get Started

For more information on eligibility requirements, specific program details, and how to apply, students are encouraged to contact:

For more resources, visit UA Little Rock’s Health Professions Resources Page and ACHE’s Student Page.

Accelerated Medical Pathway: NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) at Arkansas State University

UA Little Rock has partnered with NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) at Arkansas State University to offer an exclusive 3+4 pathway for pre-med students eager to enter the medical field faster. Through this accelerated program, students can achieve both a bachelor’s degree from UA Little Rock and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from NYITCOM in just seven years, cutting down on time and cost for medical education.

Program Highlights

  • 3+4 Pathway: Complete three years of undergraduate coursework at UA Little Rock, followed by four years at NYITCOM. After the first year of medical school, students receive their bachelor’s degree from UA Little Rock.
  • Guaranteed Interview Opportunity: Students meeting specific academic and program requirements, such as GPA and entrance exam scores, qualify for a guaranteed interview with NYITCOM admissions. This simplifies and strengthens the application process.Commitment to Arkansas
  • Healthcare: This program is designed to address the state’s physician shortage by training more medical professionals who will stay and practice in Arkansas. Nearly 80% of NYITCOM graduates remain in their home state after residency.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Academic Excellence: Students must be enrolled in the pre-med pathway program at UA Little Rock with a combined SAT score of at least 1200 or an ACT score of at least 28, and a high school GPA within the top 10% of their graduating class.
  • Application Timeline: Interested students must declare their intention to apply to NYITCOM at A-State or NYITCOM – Long Island by the end of their second year and complete a successful interview with NYITCOM during their junior year.

Early Admission Program

In addition to the 3+4 pathway, highly qualified students can participate in an early admissions program, which provides the opportunity for an early interview and consideration for admission to NYITCOM.

Learn More

To find out if this pathway is the right fit for you, reach out to one of our advisors or visit NYITCOM’s program page.

The NYITCOM pathway offers a direct, accelerated route to a medical degree, preparing students to make a lasting impact in Arkansas and beyond. Explore this opportunity to start your medical career sooner and closer to home.