Shepherd University offers multiple pathways to some of West Virginia’s most prestigious professional programs, enabling you to complete your bachelor’s degree in Shepherd’s small, supportive environment. You will benefit from the faculty mentors, academic support services, and welcoming community Shepherd is known for, while building a record of success that will carry you into medical, dental, or pharmacy school, or other professional programs.
PRE-MED PROGRAMS
MedSTEP with West Virginia University
Pre-med students with at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA can apply to the MedSTEP Program after completing one full year at Shepherd University. Accepted students will be mentored by faculty and staff from the West Virginia University (WVU) School of Medicine Eastern campus and also attend monthly seminars and discussions about medical case studies. Participants are guaranteed an interview with the WVU School of Medicine.
MedMarshall with Marshall University
Pre-med students with a demonstrated interest in a medical career can apply to the MedMarshall Program during the spring of their freshman year. MedMarshall features a Summer Academy, participation in webinars, lectures, and research activities throughout the student’s time at Shepherd, and the opportunity to shadow alumni in their medical practice. Students who satisfactorily complete the program and meet admission requirements will be granted an interview with the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine.
PRE-OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE PROGRAM
POMP with West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Students who have a science GPA of 3.4 or higher can apply to the POMP program as sophomores and participate in a series of osteopathic medicine programs throughout their time at Shepherd. After successfully completing all program requirements, students will receive guaranteed acceptance to the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.
PRE-PHARMACY PROGRAMS
BS Biopharm 3+1 with West Virginia University, Marshall University, or Shenandoah University
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry: Biopharmaceutical Sciences concentration complete three years at Shepherd while fulfilling the specific admission requirements for their chosen graduate program. In their third year, students can apply to a Pharm.D. program at West Virginia University, Marshall University, or Shenandoah University. Credits completed in the student’s first Pharm.D. year complete the bachelor’s degree at Shepherd. This program also allows flexibility for students wishing to pursue an MPH or MBA along with their Pharm.D.
PRE-DENTISTRY PROGRAM
DentSTEP Program with West Virginia University
Students who meet the program admission requirements can apply to the DentSTEP program as sophomores at Shepherd. Accepted students will complete all coursework necessary to enter West Virginia University’s DDS program, which guarantees two seats for qualified Shepherd students.
OTHER PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM OPTIONS
We prepare students to enter these other, competitive, professional programs:
- Physician’s Assistant
- Physiotherapy
- Veterinary Medicine
More Information
Dr. Robert Warburton
Dean, College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Nursing
rwarburt@shepherd.edu