Southwestern offers preprofessional programs in

Engineering - for students interested in engineering, a dual degree program is possible which consists of three years of course work at Southwestern University followed by approximately two years at an engineering school. The student will complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts, with the exception of the major requirement, at Southwestern. In addition the student will complete his or her training in the basic sciences and in mathematics at Southwestern. Southwestern University will award the Bachelor of Arts degree after the completion of all of the requirements for the engineering degree.

Medicine - There is no major in premedicine or predentistry at Southwestern University. Rather, each student majors in an academic discipline of his/her choice and elects those courses required for admission to professional school. Although it is possible, in both theory and fact, to complete any of the majors offered at Southwestern University and gain admission to medical or dental school, the majority of our premeds and predents have majored within the natural sciences. This practice is in line with national trends: nationwide, approximately 90% of all medical and dental students majored in natural science, mathematics, or engineering as undergraduates. In spite of these trends, the fact remains that the requirements for medical or dental school admission are far more qualitative than quantitative. Professional schools are looking for bright, highly motivated students who care about people, not for students with a specific major.

Students Applying To Medical Or Dental School This Year For Admission In Fall, 2008 (Adobe PDF)

Request to Prepare a Committee Letter of Recommendation (Adobe PDF)

Athletic Training - Southwestern University offers a unique athletic training program in which students have the opportunity to learn in a structured curriculum and record hours under the supervision of certified and licensed Athletic Trainers. The curriculum is designed to prepare students by offering specific course work that builds a strong foundation so students can practice and apply this knowledge during the internship experience. An 1800 hour internship supplements a specifically-designed core of athletic training courses which prepares graduates for the state and national Athletic Trainer examinations. Students quickly progress from a provisional status their first semester to acceptance into the program as an intern as early as their second semester, and eventually to an off-campus internship supervised by medical professionals. tudents are required to demonstrate competency in modalities, rehabilitation, assessment and administrative techniques. Rotations with other health care professionals such as nutritionists, nurses and physicians are available. Students culminate their experience at off-campus sites such as rehab clinics or with pro sport teams.

Business - The Business major is designed to prepare the student for graduate school or employment in the business world, integrating the course of study with the broad goals of Southwestern's liberal arts curriculum. Emphasis is placed on the development of analytical skills and strategic planning.

Education - The objective of the Education Department is to provide our students with a superior knowledge of pedagogy, the art and science of teaching. Our purpose is to receive students who have a strong liberal arts and sciences general education and a solid foundation in subject matter and prepare them to impart that knowledge successfully. Most of our graduates go on to teach in public or private elementary or secondary schools.

Theology - Students considering ministry as their vocation are encouraged to explore their faith and calling at Southwestern. The liberal arts education offered at Southwestern excellent preparation for graduate theological education and ministry. Academic internships, part-time work and summer experiences in ministry also are encouraged. Pre-ministry students have the opportunity to meet informally, gather for conversation with the University Chaplain and participate in programs designed to meet their needs. (For example: meeting with seminary admissions personnel, alumni in ministry and volunteer service.) Additionally, there are leadership roles in student religious organizations and religious life programs, including Chapel, that give Southwestern students experiences that are helpful in understanding the unfolding of their calling and professional preparation.

Law

Students interested in these programs meet with their advisors to construct an appropriate course schedule leading to successful preparation in these areas.