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-Heath Professions Contact information
Ann Williams, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biology
Co-Chairman of the Pre-Health Professions Committee
Office: SC255
Phone: (813) 257-3994
Email: ahwilliams@ut.edu
Scott Witherow, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Co-Chairman of the Pre-Health Professions Committee
Office: SC204
Phone: (813) 257-5034
Email: dwitherow@ut.edu
Pre-Health Related Student Organizations
- Skull and Bones, Rebecca Bellone, Faculty Advisor
- Alpha Epsilon Delta, Ann Williams, Faculty Advisor