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ÀÇÓÑ̽»¨ students in a first year biology lab.

Pre-Medical and Pre-Health Professions Program

Training for medical school requires endurance and dedication, and Scranton’s rigorous four-year program helps students go the extra mile toward academic and career success. 

The Office of Health Professions offers personalized, longitudinal support from day one through on-site advising and academic progress monitoring. An exceptional science curriculum prepares juniors and seniors for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Dental Admission Test (DAT) and other standardized exams, as well as the competitive application and interview process that follows. 

Our applicants are accepted to schools of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, podiatry, optometry, pharmacy and physician assistant programs. No matter which path you choose, Scranton helps you reach the finish line.

Clinical Experience on Campus

Undergraduate students have access to research opportunities and hands-on learning in health professions just steps from the classroom. 

At the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Clinic for the Uninsured located on campus, undergraduate students work with Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine students and residents, volunteer physicians, faculty and professional staff to provide medical care for individuals in need. This valuable clinical experience builds their network of Royal connections and helps their resumes stand out. 

A Jesuit Foundation for Medicine

Grades and test preparation are only one component of Scranton’s program. A Jesuit education defines not what you do, but how you do it.  

Medical and health professions schools value personal traits such as compassion and critical thinking – hallmarks of the Jesuit tradition. Here are some of the ways the University fosters and encourages these skills: 

Intimate Classroom Settings: Small class sizes allow Scranton to know and care for each student as an individual. This opens the door to undergraduate research opportunities. Faculty build close relationships with students and can articulate what is special about each one through recommendation letters.

Extensive Academic Offerings: While Scranton’s curriculum heavily focuses on science and mathematics courses, students also take demanding philosophy, theology, English and communication courses that challenge them to think critically and consider different perspectives. Many pre-health students are also in one of the University's honors programs.

Peer and Alumni Guidance: Students develop a valuable support network while on Scranton’s campus. They are encouraged to join the Health Professions Organization (HPO), a student-led club offering peer advising, weekly presentations and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals in Northeast Pennsylvania. Similarly, our network of Scranton graduates enthusiastically offers encouragement and shadowing opportunities. Our students experience their journey together, not in competition. That’s the Royal way.

Community Service: An extracurricular emphasis on service and reflection promotes analytical, well-spoken, and caring applicants. In addition to clinical experience offered at the Leahy Clinic, the Center for Service and Social Justice helps connect students with community partners and supports their participation in a variety of community events.

Meet With An Advisor

You should meet with a pre-health advisor at least once a semester,  but you can have multiple meetings if necessary.

Our office is at  301 IMBM (The Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicine, next to Alumni Memorial Hall). We are open year-round, including winter break, spring break, and summer.

Director of Pre-Medical and Pre-Health Professions Program
Dr. Nicole Ferentino
570-941-7901
prehealth@scranton.edu

Advisor for First-Year Students 
Mrs. Pamela Harper
pamela.harper@scranton.edu

Advisor for Second-Year Students
Dr. Michael Fennie
michael.fennie@scranton.edu

© 2026 ÀÇÓÑ̽»¨

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