The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers students a solid foundation in the five major areas of chemistry: analytical chemistry, biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry and physical chemistry. Students who are interested in the health professions (medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, podiatry and veterinary medicine) typically major in chemistry or biology. Other degrees can also prepare students for health professions; thus students are encouraged to major in the field where they excel.
Students majoring in chemistry or biochemistry who are interested in the health professions can earn a B.S. or a B.A. in chemistry or biochemistry. By pursuing any of these degrees, students take most or all of the required prerequisite courses as part of their degree program. These courses include introductory (inorganic) chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus and introductory biology. While any of the degree programs offered by the department provides the opportunity for professional school admission, the B.A. degrees, with fewer credit hours than the B.S. degrees, allow the student to explore other academic disciplines through electives, providing the well-rounded educational experience professional schools actively seek in their applicants. For more information on specific course work required please see the Pre-Health Professions Advising Guide or the specific program links.
Graduates from our program have been accepted into many health professional programs across the country. The foundation for their success was gained through the hands-on educational experience and personalized attention afforded through the University of Tampa.
Members of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Department of Biology offer guidance to students interested in pursuing graduate training in the health professions as well as write letters of recommendation through our Pre-Health Professions Committee composed of biology, chemistry, biochemistry and physics faculty. Students are encouraged to contact the members of the committee early in their academic careers for guidance. Additionally, students are strongly encouraged to contact the committee at the beginning of their junior year for help in the application process and to request letters of recommendation.
Pre-health advisor:
Jackie Mikulski
Coordinator, Pre-professional Programs
Email: Jmikulski@ut.edu
Pre-Health Professions Committee:
The University’s Pre-Health Professions Committee (PHPC) is composed of biology, chemistry, biochemistry and physics faculty, and offers advising and guidance for students interested in pursuing a career in the health professions.
Kimberly Dobrinski, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biology
Co-Chairman of the Pre-Health Professions Committee
Office: SC-242
Phone: (813) 257-3274
Email: kdobrinski@ut.edu
Michael French, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Co-Chairman of the Pre-Health Professions Committee
Office: CB-151
Phone: (813) 257-4029
Email: mfrench@ut.edu
Other Committee Members:
