Center for Health Professions
So you are thinking about pursuing a professional career: dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, nursing, physical therapy, law, etc. People often choose these programs because they want to make a difference and meet essential needs in others’ lives. These careers also often provide the flexibility and financial stability many students and their families are looking for. At Walla Walla University we care about you having not only a successful career but a meaningful career as well and believe we are uniquely positioned to help you reach your professional goals.
What is a pre-professional program?
Pre-professional programs are tracks in undergraduate programs that prepare you for a professional degree after your bachelor's. You don’t earn the professional degree at WWU, but you take the college-level classes you’ll need to do well on entrance exams, meet application requirements for pre-requisites, and succeed in professional programs.
How is doing a pre-professional different from just getting a degree?
In addition to earning a degree at WWU, you’re paired with an advisor who knows the classes you’ll need to take and the skills you’ll need to gain to pass your professional program entrance exam. While most professional programs require you to have a bachelor’s degree to get into the program, not all do. It’s a good idea to get a bachelor’s though even if it’s not a requirement so you can have more flexibility later in your career.
Not sure which one is right for you yet?
Don’t worry! You don't have to make this decision now.
You can talk with our professional advisors and plan your first year carefully to keep your options open while you are still learning what fits you best.
Be confident in your career potential.
The Student Development Center provides services that are uniquely geared to set you up for a strong start as a working professional.
Learn how the Student Development Center will help you thrive >
Nature of Work: Dentists diagnose, prevent, and treat problems of the teeth and tissues of the mouth. In aesthetic dentistry, they remove decay and fill cavities, examine X-rays, place protective plastic sealants on children's teeth, straighten, whiten, and repair fractured teeth. They also perform corrective surgery of the gums and supporting bones to treat gum diseases. Dentists extract teeth, place dental implants, make molds, and take measurements for dentures to replace missing teeth. In addition, they provide instruction in diet, brushing, flossing, and the use of fluorides, and in other areas of dental care. They also administer anesthetics and write prescriptions for antibiotics and other medications. Dentists may operate a general practice or may specialize in any of the following areas: endodontics, implantology, oral surgery, orthodontics, pathology, pedodontics, periodontics, or prosthodontics.
Professional Training: To qualify for licensing, candidates must graduate from an approved dental school and pass a State Board Exam. Licensed professionals may go on for advanced training in order to teach or to specialize.
Contact Information:
Advisors:Kyle Craig, Jeremy Wiggins
Phone: (509) 527-2482, (509) 527-2762, (509) 527-2483
Nature of Work: The dental hygienist works as a part of the dental health team to provide clinical and educational assistance. Dental hygienists work directly with patients in the office of a dentist or individually in industries, schools, or public health agencies. In the office, a dental hygienist's duties include prophylaxis and X-ray work, however in a few states such as Washington, expanded duties include the filling of minor cavities. Dental hygienists examine patients' teeth and gums, recording the presence of disease or abnormalities. They remove stain and plaque from teeth, apply caries-preventive agents such as fluorides, pit and fissure sealants; take and develop dental X-rays, place temporary fillings and periodontal dressings, remove sutures, and polish and re-contour amalgam restoration. Dental hygienists also help patients develop and maintain good oral health.
Professional Training: Requirements for licensing vary from state to state. Following the completion of training, state board examinations are required. Certification may have reciprocity between states. After the Associate of Science degree, students usually transfer to a program that can give the additional training needed.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Gerry Larson
Phone: (509) 527-2325
Dental Hygiene Advisement Guidebook
Nature of Work: The legal system affects nearly every aspect of our society, from buying a home to crossing the street. Lawyers form the backbone of this vital system, linking it to society in numerous ways.
Professional Training: The required college and law school education usually takes 7 years of full-time study after high school: 4 years of undergraduate study, followed by 3 years of law school. Law school applicants must have a bachelor’s degree to qualify for admission.
Preparation: Although there is no recommended “prelaw” major, prospective lawyers should develop proficiency in writing and speaking, reading, researching, analyzing, and thinking logically — skills needed to succeed both in law school and in the profession. Regardless of major, a multidisciplinary background is recommended. Courses in English, foreign languages, public speaking, government, philosophy, history, economics, mathematics, and computer science, among others, are useful. Acceptance by most law schools depends on the applicant’s ability to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of law, usually through good grades, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and the quality of the applicant’s undergraduate schooling and prior work experience.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Gregory Dodds
Phone: (509) 527-2851
General Areas of Service: The most familiar job of a radiological technologist is taking X-rays for the diagnosis of broken bones. However, medical uses of radiation expand far beyond this. Radiation is used not only to produce images of the interior of the body, but also to treat cancer. Additionally, the use of imaging techniques that do not involve X-rays, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, is growing rapidly. Radiological technologists may specialize in medical radiography as radiographers, nuclear medicine technologists, or radiation technologists treating cancer and other diseases. Most radiological technologists work in hospitals. Others may work in medical school systems as instructors or chief technologists. Radiological technology is concerned with the use of X-rays, radioactive substances, and other forms of radiant energy in the treatment and diagnosis of disease.
Professional Training: Advanced training is needed if one wants to prepare for administration, clinical practice, education, or health physics. Formal training is offered in radiography, radiation therapy, and diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound). Programs range in length from one to four years and lead to a certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree. Two-year programs are the most prevalent.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Gerry Larson
Phone: (509) 527-2325
Medical Radiography Advisement Guidebook
Nature of Work: Physicians examine patients; obtain medical histories; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They also diagnose illnesses and prescribe and administer treatment for people suffering from injury or disease, and counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive health care. Doctors in private practices may also handle or oversee the business aspects pertaining to their offices. Most general practitioners are self-employed, working with a group. However, numerous doctors are employed by other practitioners or by state, local, or federal government; or private risk management insurance corporations.
Professional Training: Doctors must acquire an M.D. degree, complete a residency, and obtain a license to practice. Formal education and training are among the longest of any occupation, but earnings are among the highest.
Contact Information:
Advisors: David Lindsey, Jeremy Wiggins
Phone: (509) 527-2602, (509) 527-2483
General Areas of Service: Dieticians and nutritionists plan nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They help prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating habits. They scientifically evaluate clients' diets and suggest modifications such as less salt for those with high blood pressure or reduced fat and sugar intake for those who are overweight. Dieticians translate the science of nutrition into the skill of furnishing optimal nourishment to people. Increased recognition of the value of nutrition in medical, dental, and health education offers the dietician a steadily widening horizon of professional opportunities. Opportunities may also be found in healthcare research programs, food industries, state agencies, and nutritional care management.
Professional Training: The basic educational requirement is a bachelor's degree with a major in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area. Students take courses in food, nutrition, institution management, chemistry, biology, microbiology, and physiology. Nutrition and Dietetics may be taken at the master’s level with a bachelor’s degree in health or related majors.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Jerry Larson
Phone: (509) 527-2325
Nature of Work: Occupational therapists work with people who have difficulty coping with psychological or physiological dysfunction. Specifically, occupational therapists help individuals with mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling conditions to develop, recover, and maintain daily-living and work skills. They not only help patients improve basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, they also help them compensate for permanent loss of function. They work to help patients lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives through the increase of strength, dexterity, and the ability to discern patterns. An occupational therapist may practice in general hospitals, rehabilitation centers, pediatric or psychiatric hospitals, crippled children's camps and schools, geriatric homes, sheltered workshops, home-care, and community-centered programs. The primary concern of the therapist is to develop or redevelop self-care, work, and leisure skills. Therapy involves retraining patients to overcome their disabilities through the activities of daily living and working.
Professional Training: A degree in occupational therapy and successfully passing the national certification examination are required for work in the profession. A graduate degree is often required for teaching, research, or specialized programs.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Mike Hellie
Phone: (509) 527-2886
Nature of Work: Optometrists examine people's eyes to diagnose vision problems and eye diseases. They treat vision problems and, in most states, they also treat some eye diseases such as conjunctivitis or corneal infections. Optometrists use instruments and observation to examine eye health and to test patients' visual acuity, depth and color perceptions, and their ability to focus and coordinate their eyes. They analyze test results and develop a treatment plan. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, and low vision aids (for visually impaired patients). All optometrists provide general eye and vision care. Some do this through general practice, and others through more specialized practice such as contact lenses, geriatrics, low vision services, pediatrics, sports vision, and vision therapy. Other optometrists may choose to enter optometric education and perform scientific research.
Professional Training: Doctors of Optometry must successfully complete a four-year accredited degree program at one of the schools of optometry. Most students who are accepted by a school or college of optometry have completed their undergraduate degree, even though the minimum entrance requirement is often only two years of undergraduate course work. Each institution has its own undergraduate prerequisites, so applicants should contact the school or college of their choice for specific requirements.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Tom Ekkens
Phone: (509) 527-2476
Optometry Advisement Guidebook
Nature of Work: Orthotists and Prosthetists, also called O&P professionals, may work in both orthotics and prosthetics, or they may choose to specialize in one. Orthotists are specifically trained to work with medical supportive devices, such as braces and inserts. Prosthetists are specifically trained to work with prostheses, such as artificial limbs and other body parts. An O&P professional may work in small, private offices, hospitals, federal government, and medical equipment and supplies manufacturing companies.
Professional Training: Orthotists and prosthetists need at least a master’s degree in orthotics and a one year residency before they can be certified.
Contact Information:
Advisors:Tom Ekkens
Phone: (509) 527-2476
General Areas of Service: Pharmacists mix and dispense drugs for prescriptions and advise physicians about selection, dosages, interactions, and side effects of medication. They council patients about drug therapy programs, try to ensure that patients understand the instructions on their prescription, and order and maintain supplies of drugs and chemicals. This job requires good numerical and verbal abilities as well as attention to detail. Most pharmacists work in pharmacies. Others are employed by hospitals, the government, or companies that manufacture drugs and medicines.
Professional Training: A Doctor of Pharmacy degree and success on board examinations are required to practice as a pharmacist. Pharmacy schools usually require students to have a minimum of three years of undergraduate work before entering. Upon entering a pharmacy school, a student studies four years to complete the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Students should consult with the college of pharmacy of their choice about exact course requirements. The following subjects are usually part of the college level courses required before entrance into a pharmacy school: mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, and English.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Melvin Roberts
Phone: (509) 527-2040
General Areas of Service: Physical therapists find employment in hospitals, public and private health agencies, physicians' offices, special schools, research organizations, sports programs, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. Physical therapists are concerned with treating disease, injury and disability, using activities and devices to increase or restore their patients’ strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination and balance, reduce pain and discomfort, and to prepare the patient physically and emotionally to return to the activities of daily living. Their patients include accident victims and disabled individuals with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, nerve injuries, burns, amputations, head injuries, fractures, low back pain, arthritis, and heart disease.
Professional Training: Physical therapists must be licensed by the state. By 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists who are doctors of physical therapy (DPT). Because of this change, clinical programs that have not already changed to prepare students with a DPT are in the process of doing so. Entry into a clinical physical therapy program requires high grade point averages on pre-requisite coursework along with well-rounded extracurricular activities. Both Loma Linda University and Andrews University have DPT training programs. Both schools accept applicants after three years of pre-requisite college coursework. (A bachelor’s degree is awarded to those students who do not have a bachelor’s degree after the first year of clinical physical therapy study.)
Contact Information:
Advisor: Mike Hellie
Phone: (509) 527-2886
Physical Therapy Advisement Guidebook
Physical Therapy Assistant Advisement Guidebook
General Areas of Service: The Physician Assistant (PA) is an important member of the healthcare team who acts interdependently with a supervising physician to provide diagnostic and therapeutic care in a variety of medical settings. PA programs prepare students to take comprehensive medical histories, complete physical examinations, order and interpret diagnostic tests, diagnose illnesses, create treatment plans, aid in surgery, and perform minor procedures. A physician assistant is frequently involved in more hands-on patient care than a doctor would be.
Educational Experience: Successful completion of a physician assistant program will provide the student with a master’s degree. There is a wide variety in the prerequisite course work for PA programs, so students should check with the school(s) to which they wish to apply to as early as possible to ensure completion of appropriate courses. Physician assistant programs usually require a bachelor’s degree, but application may be submitted completion of this undergraduate degree. Recommended undergraduate majors include biology, biochemistry, health science, or another biomedical field. Most PA programs also require clinical experience of at least 2000 hours of hands-on patient care (actual number of hours varies by program).
Contact Information:
Advisors: Kyle Craig
Phone: (509) 527-2762
General Areas of Service: The overall objective of speech-language pathology services is to assess and treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. SLPs also assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults, thereby improving quality of life. As the population of the United States continues to become increasingly diverse, SLPs are committed to providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services and considering diversity in scientific investigations of human communication and swallowing.
Speech-language pathologists are employed in public schools, and many healthcare facilities, including hospitals, home health care services, nursing care facilities, rehabilitation centers, college or community speech and hearing clinics, childcare centers. They also work in public health, the armed services, as consultants for business, and in private practice. Speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat children and adults with communication disorders such as stuttering, delayed language development, aphasia, voice and articulation problems, and swallowing disorders. Research and development of new computer applications to assist people with severe communication disabilities, such as helping individuals who are unable to speak, are among the most exciting advances in the field.
An interest in working with people is needed for SLPs. This field allows for considerable flexibility relative to individual interests within the profession.
Professional Training: The Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) of the American Speech Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the only professional credential for speech-language pathologists recognized in every state. Candidates for the CCC must have a master’s degree plus nine months of supervised experience and must pass the national exam. Most states also require professionals to obtain licenses to practice.
Contact Information:
Advisors: Linda Crumley
Phone: (509) 527-2520
Nature of Work: Veterinary medicine is a health profession dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of animal diseases and injuries. Veterinarians use scientific knowledge and decision-making processes to enhance the health, welfare, and productivity of animals. They contribute to human as well as animal health by engaging in research, food safety inspection, education, regulatory medicine, and public health. This comprehensive health profession is increasingly important as animal and human populations grow. Most veterinarians in the United States and Canada work in private practices. Specialties within veterinary medicine include research, education, laboratory animal medicine, zoo animal medicine, equine sports medicine, wildlife animal medicine, animal-assisted activities, marine biology, and aquatic animal medicine.
Professional Training: Prospective veterinarians must graduate from a four-year program at an accredited college of veterinary medicine with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M or V.M.D) degree and obtain a license to practice. The United States and Canada have 33 colleges of veterinary medicine.
Contact Information:
Advisors: James Nestler
Phone: (509) 527-2551
Why do a pre-professional program at WWU?
Learn to think like a scientist.
At WWU you’ll learn how to think like a scientist--a skill which will give you an advantage when you are applying and completing a pre-professional program. This most directly comes through taking science classes.
Choose from a variety of majors.
You can be a pre-professional student and still choose from our 100+ areas of study. Choosing a major is about understanding your interests and how efficiently you want to complete your core pre-professional requirements. Many majors are well-suited for pre-professional study and our advisors can help you choose one that aligns with your interests and goals.
Receive quality advising.
Every student at WWU is paired with an academic advisor who is trained to be knowledgeable about competencies you need to be successful to apply to pre-professional schools. If you’re uncertain which professional program you’d like to go into, advisors can help you plan your first year carefully to meet a broad range of requirements as you determine which program is the best fit. And for first-generation college students, our advising means getting expert help from others who have gone through college before.
Study in action.
When you attend WWU you’ll gain access to valuable hands-on research experience with faculty who are active researchers. This experience provides a solid background for professional programs. You’ll learn not just how to do research, but also how to understand research. Students can work with faculty and also conduct their own research in their classes.
Anticipate for the future.
Our pre-professional curriculum at WWU is built on current research about what is needed to be successful as a professional in a variety of fields, anticipating what will be needed in the future as well.