Missouri State University

Pre-professional Students

Pre-professional students are those who hope to attain advanced degrees in highly specialized and competitive fields such as medicine and law.

             A. Characteristics

      • May not be degree-seeking.
      • May have limited understanding of profession’s demands.
      • May have limited information of professional preparation.
      • May have a narrow focus of alternatives.

             B. Advising techniques 

  • Select electives to complement pre-professional goals.
  • Suggest early contact with the school to which they are transferring.
  • Refer to pre-professional advisors, groups and clubs early.
  • Emphasize need to maintain high academic standards in order to compete for entrance into selective admission programs.
  • Assist in recognizing abilities toward goals.
  • Assist with formation of alternative career plans.