Overview
The Pre-Health Professions Certificate is designed to support all UT Austin students — regardless of major, experience or healthcare goal — prepare for a potential future in a health profession.
The PHP certificate requires 20* hours of coursework that provides a strong academic and professional foundation for students interested in pursuing a career in the health professions. Certificate courses include those required and recommended by professional schools and expand the student’s academic pursuits outside of their major. In addition, all students pursuing the PHP certificate are required to take two of the three Health Professions Pathways seminars. These 1c courses guide and support students in defining and refining their unique path as well as developing their professional competencies.
- NSC 107J: The Effective Health Professional
- NSC 107K: Collaboration in Healthcare
- NSC 107M: The PreHealth Action Plan
*Depending on your catalog. Please check with your advisor to confirm your catalog and your requirements.
Suggested first-year course plan:
Fall first year
BIO 311C#
CH 301
CH 104M#
Math, if needed
First year seminar
UGS 302/303 or other course
Spring First Year
BIO 311D#
BIO 206L#
CH 302
CH 104N#
NSC 107J: Effective Health Prof#
Core/Flag/other course
Summer first year
Extracurricular experiences: shadowing, service, healthcare work, research, passion projects, leadership, etc.
#Count to PHP certificate requirements
Students should work with their academic advisor and the Health Professions Office to make an academic plan that incorporates coursework for the certificate as well as professional school academic and extracurricular requirements.
Health profession requirements and suggested course plans from HPO:
| Anesthesiologist Assistant | Occupational Therapy | Physical Therapy |
| Cardiovascular Perfusionist | Optometry | Physician Assistant |
| Dentistry | Orthotist & Prosthetist | Podiatry |
| Medicine | Pharmacy | Veterinary |
Please note: these are suggested timelines to demonstrate one possible way the pre-req courses for a career path might fit. Every student’s path will be unique and we recommend you use these sample paths as a jumping off point as you explore your own journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the certificate if I am not currently a student?
The Pre-Health Professions Certificate is designed for students currently admitted and enrolled in a degree-seeking program at UT Austin.
When should I apply?
Students are recommended to apply after completing NSC 107J to ensure alignment with the certificate.
- CNS majors may apply at any time during their academic journey.
- Non-CNS majors must complete CH 301 with a C or higher, as well as either statistics or calculus with a C or higher.
My certificate application was just accepted. What now?
Students should meet with their academic advisor to discuss how the certificate fits into their degree plan and future coursework. Students are also encouraged to review certificate requirements and begin planning for upcoming semesters accordingly.
Do all courses for the certificate need to be taken at UT?
Not all courses must be taken at UT, but at least half of the credits applied toward the certificate must be completed in residence.
I completed a course that I believe should count toward the certificate. How can I request a petition for credit?
Complete this survey, and you will be contacted within two weeks once a decision has been made.
Can we set up a meeting?
We do not hold meetings with students. However, students may meet with a Health Professions Coach for questions about health professional school, or email hpcert@austin.utexas.edu for questions about the certificate.
Is there a cord?
Currently, there is no cord for this certificate