Audiology (AuD)
Audiologists diagnose, manage, and treat hearing, balance, and other auditory disorders in patients across the lifespan. They conduct hearing and balance assessments, help patients manage hearing loss and tinnitus, and provide rehabilitative care using technologies such as hearing aids and cochlear implants. Audiologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, schools, research institutions, and hearing and balance centers, often collaborating with physicians, speech-language pathologists, educators, and other healthcare professionals. Audiologists earn a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree.
While you may be admitted to AuD programs with a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), it’s not a required undergraduate major, particularly because prerequisite coursework varies considerably by AuD programs. Additionally, some AuD programs allow students who have not completed all CSD-related prerequisites to complete this coursework before matriculation or as part of the AuD program. Be sure to review the requirements of individual programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework.
Applications to Doctor of Audiology (AuD) programs may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: CSDCAS (Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service)
- Direct applications: Some AuD programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant academic, clinical, research, or volunteer experiences. Some programs may also require an interview.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some AuD programs, while others have made it optional. There is no audiology-specific standardized admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
Chiropractic (DC)
Chiropractors diagnose, manage, and treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, joints, and muscles. They use hands-on techniques, including spinal manipulation and joint adjustments, to help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and support physical function. Chiropractors may also recommend therapeutic exercises, rehabilitation strategies, and lifestyle modifications as part of patient care. They work in private practices, multidisciplinary clinics, sports medicine settings, and other healthcare environments, often collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Chiropractors earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
Most Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) programs require a bachelor's degree, although some accept applicants who have completed at least 90 semester credits of undergraduate coursework. Chiropractic programs expect a strong foundation in the life and physical sciences, including at least 24 semester credits of science coursework, with laboratory components.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Organic Chemistry w/Lab |
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Biochemistry |
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| Physics w/Lab |
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| Biomechanics |
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| Math or Statistics |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Psychology |
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| Social Science |
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| English |
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Specific course requirements and minimum GPA expectations vary by program. Be sure to review individual DC programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework.
Applications to Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) programs are submitted directly through an individual institution’s graduate admissions. There is no universal centralized application service.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant academic, clinical, volunteer, or work experiences. Some programs may also require an interview.
Most DC programs do not require a standardized graduate admission test, although requirements vary by institution. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
Counseling (MS)
Counselors help individuals, couples, families, and groups address mental health, emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. They assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, and use evidence-based counseling techniques to support emotional well-being, personal development, and healthy relationships. Counselors may specialize in clinical mental health, school, rehabilitation, addiction, or marriage and family counseling. They work in settings such as hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, community agencies, private practices, and rehabilitation centers, often collaborating with psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. Professional counselors earn a master's degree in Counseling or a related field, followed by supervised clinical experience.
You may pursue graduate counseling programs with a bachelor's degree in Psychology, Human Services, or another major. Individual programs may require or recommend foundational coursework in psychology and the behavioral sciences.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Psychology |
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| Abnormal Psychology |
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| Human Development | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Sociology |
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| Research Methods & Statistics |
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Some counseling programs accept applicants with any undergraduate degree without specific prerequisite courses. Be sure to review individual program requirements.
Applications to master's programs in Counseling are submitted directly through an individual institution’s graduate admissions. There is no universally required centralized application service.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or statement of purpose, resume, and relevant academic, volunteer, or work experiences. Some programs may also require an interview.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some counseling programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no counseling-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Counseling Association (ACA)
- American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA)
- National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- CACREP Accredited Program Directory
- New York State: Mental Health Counselor License Requirements
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Genetic Counseling (MS)
Genetic counselors help individuals and families understand how genetic conditions may affect their health and make informed healthcare decisions. They assess personal and family medical histories, interpret genetic testing results, evaluate the likelihood of inherited conditions, and provide counseling and support to patients navigating genetic risks and diagnoses. Genetic counselors may specialize in areas such as prenatal, pediatric, cancer, cardiovascular, or neurological genetics. They work in hospitals, medical centers, specialty clinics, laboratories, and research institutions, often collaborating with physicians, geneticists, and other healthcare professionals.
Master's programs in Genetic Counseling require a bachelor's degree and a strong foundation in biological sciences, genetics, and behavioral sciences.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Genetics |
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| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Organic Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Biochemistry |
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| Statistics or Biostatistics |
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| Psychology |
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| Abnormal Psychology |
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| Developmental Psychology | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
Some programs require additional coursework in Molecular Biology and/or Cell Biology. Experience in patient advocacy, crisis counseling, community service, or genetic counseling settings is also highly valued by many programs.
Prerequisite requirements vary by institution. Be sure to review individual programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and relevant experiences.
Applications to master's programs in Genetic Counseling are submitted directly through an individual institution’s graduate admissions. There is no universal centralized application service. However, in addition to the institution application, programs also utilize a matching process to determine admissions placements.
- Program applications: Submit applications directly to individual institutions.
- Admissions matching service: Genetic Counseling Admissions Match (NMS) (National Matching Services).
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, resume, and relevant academic, research, counseling, advocacy, or volunteer experiences. Competitive applicants are invited to interview with individual programs.
You must also register for the Genetic Counseling Admissions Match (NMS) in addition to submitting your individual program applications. After interviews, you rank your preferred programs, and participating programs rank applicants. The matching process then determines admissions placements.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is optional at some programs and not required by others. There is no genetic counseling-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, Match registration requirements, and deadlines before applying.
- National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)
- Genetic Counseling Education Association (GCEA)
- Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC)
- American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC)
- ACGC Accredited Genetic Counseling Programs
- Genetic Counseling Admissions Match
- Genetic Counseling Admissions Match: Participating Programs
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Genetic Counselors
Medical Physics (MS/PhD)
Medical physicists apply principles of physics to medicine, particularly in radiation therapy, diagnostic imaging, and nuclear medicine, to improve the safety and effectiveness of patient care. They help develop and optimize medical technologies, calculate and verify radiation doses, evaluate imaging equipment, and establish quality assurance procedures to protect patients and healthcare professionals. Medical physicists work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, research institutions, universities, and medical technology companies, often collaborating with physicians, radiation therapists, engineers, and other healthcare professionals. Medical physicists earn a master's or doctoral degree in Medical Physics, with additional clinical training required for many patient-care positions.
Graduate programs in Medical Physics require a bachelor's degree in Physics or a related physical science or engineering. Programs expect substantial preparation in physics and math.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Physics w/Lab (2 Semesters) |
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| Modern Physics |
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| Quantum Mechanics |
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| Electricity & Magnetism |
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| Calculus (3 Semesters) |
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| Differential Equations |
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| Linear Algebra |
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| Computer Science |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
Some programs require or recommend additional coursework in Nuclear Physics, Thermodynamics, or Statistics. Applicants without a traditional physics degree may need to complete additional upper-level physics coursework.
If you’re planning to pursue clinical certification, the American Board of Radiology (ABR) requires appropriate undergraduate physics preparation, including coursework equivalent to a physics minor. Additionally, be sure to select a graduate program that supports eligibility for ABR certification. This involves a CAMPEP-accredited educational pathway and clinical residency, followed by professional certification examinations.
Be sure to review individual program requirements when planning your undergraduate coursework.
Applications to graduate programs in Medical Physics are submitted directly through an individual institution’s graduate admissions. There is no universal centralized application service.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, resume, and relevant academic, research, or technical experiences. Some programs may also require an interview.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. Some institutions may also request the GRE Physics Subject Test. Be sure to review each program's admission requirements, accreditation status, and deadlines before applying.
- American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM)
- Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs (CAMPEP)
- American Board of Radiology (ABR)
- Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI)
- CAMPEP Accredited Graduate Programs
- CAMPEP Accredited Residency Programs
- AAPM: Medical Physics as a Career
- ABR: Medical Physics Certification
Nutrition (MS/RDN)
Nutrition professionals study how food and nutrients affect human health and help individuals and communities prevent disease, manage health conditions, and improve overall well-being. They assess nutritional needs, develop individualized nutrition plans, provide nutrition education, and contribute to research, public health initiatives, and clinical care. Nutrition professionals work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and private practice, often collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Many pursue a Master of Science (MS) in Nutrition or a related field, while those seeking to practice as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) must also complete accredited professional education, supervised practice, and credentialing requirements.
Master's programs in Nutrition require a bachelor's degree and foundational coursework in biological and nutritional sciences. Prerequisites vary depending on whether you pursue a general Nutrition MS, a research-focused program, or a professional pathway leading to Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) eligibility.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Organic Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Biochemistry |
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| Introduction to Nutrition | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Statistics or Biostatistics |
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| Microbiology w/Lab |
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Some programs also require coursework in Food Science, Metabolism, or Human Development. If you intend to become an RDN, be sure to select an educational pathway that satisfies the requirements of the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). A general master's degree in Nutrition does not automatically qualify you to sit for the RDN credential exam.
Applications to master's programs in Nutrition can be submitted directly through an individual institution’s graduate admissions. Programs that provide accredited professional preparation for Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) eligibility may also use a centralized application service.
- Centralized application service: DICAS (Dietetics Centralized Application Services) for participating dietetics programs.
- Direct applications: Some Nutrition MS programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, resume, and relevant academic, research, clinical, or volunteer experiences. Programs leading to RDN eligibility may also require documentation of completed dietetics coursework and an interview.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some Nutrition graduate programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no nutrition-specific standardized graduate admission test.
If you intend to become an RDN, you must complete the appropriate ACEND-accredited coursework and supervised practice, earn at least a graduate degree, and pass the registration examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Be sure to review each program's admission requirements, accreditation status, and deadlines before applying.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- American Society for Nutrition (ASN)
- American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN)
- ACEND Accredited Program Directory
- Dietetics Application Process for Students
- CDR: Registered Dietitian Examination Eligibility
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Dietitians and Nutritionists
Occupational Therapy (MOT/MSOT/OTD)
Occupational therapists help individuals develop, regain, or maintain the skills needed to participate in everyday activities following illness, injury, disability, or other physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges. They evaluate patients' abilities, develop individualized treatment plans, and use therapeutic activities, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications to improve independence and quality of life. Occupational therapists work with patients across the lifespan in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, outpatient clinics, nursing facilities, and community settings, often collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other healthcare professionals. Occupational therapists earn a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT/MSOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree.
Master's and entry-level doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy require a bachelor's degree and foundational coursework in biology, behavior, and social sciences.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Psychology |
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| Abnormal Psychology |
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| Developmental Psychology | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Statistics |
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| Sociology |
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Some programs also require Physics, Neuroscience, Kinesiology, or Medical Terminology.
Some programs also require documented observation or volunteer hours with a licensed occupational therapist, while others recommend relevant experience without specifying a minimum number of hours.
Prerequisite requirements, minimum grades, and observation expectations vary by institution. Be sure to review individual programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and experiences.
Applications to master's and entry-level doctoral programs in Occupational Therapy may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: OTCAS (Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service).
- Direct applications: Some Occupational Therapy programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, relevant academic, clinical, volunteer, or work experiences, and documentation of occupational therapy observation hours when required. Some programs may also require an interview or supplemental application materials.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some Occupational Therapy programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no occupational therapy-specific standardized admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)
- National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
- New York State Occupational Therapy Association (NYSOTA)
- AOTA: Find an Occupational Therapy Program
- ACOTE Accredited Occupational Therapy Programs
- OTCAS Application Guide
- NBCOT Certification
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Therapists
Perfusion (MS)
Perfusionists are specialized healthcare professionals who operate heart-lung machines and other technologies that temporarily support or replace a patient's heart and lung functions during cardiac surgery and medical procedures. They monitor blood circulation, oxygenation, body temperature, and other physiological measures while working closely with cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and members of the surgical team. Perfusionists primarily work in hospitals and cardiac surgery centers, with additional opportunities in research, education, and medical technology. Perfusionists earn a master's degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion or a related field. Graduates pursue professional certification through the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP).
Graduate programs in Cardiovascular Perfusion require a bachelor's degree and a strong foundation in biological and physical sciences. Programs commonly emphasize preparation in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and math.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Organic Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Biochemistry |
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| Physics w/Lab |
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| Math or Statistics |
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| Microbiology w/Lab |
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Some programs require or recommend clinical observation or shadowing with a practicing perfusionist. Relevant experience in healthcare, research, or other technical settings may also strengthen your application.
Prerequisite requirements and observation expectations vary by institution. Review individual programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and experiences.
Applications to graduate programs in Cardiovascular Perfusion are submitted directly through individual institutions. There is no universally required centralized application service.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or statement of purpose, a resume, and relevant academic, clinical, research, or work experiences. Many programs require or strongly recommend documented perfusion shadowing, and some require an interview.
Some programs require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), while others have made it optional or do not require it. There is no perfusion-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, accreditation status, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion (AACP)
- American Society of Extracorporeal Technology (AmSECT)
- American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP)
- Perfusion Program Directory
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (AC-PE)
- CAAHEP Accredited Program Search
- ABCP Accreditation Information
- ABCP Certification
Physical Therapy (DPT)
Physical therapists evaluate and treat individuals with injuries, illnesses, disabilities, and other conditions that affect movement and physical function. They develop individualized treatment plans using therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, movement training, and other interventions to reduce pain, restore mobility, prevent injury, and improve quality of life. Physical therapists work with patients across the lifespan in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine facilities, schools, and home healthcare settings, often collaborating with physicians, occupational therapists, athletic trainers, and other healthcare professionals. Physical therapists earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs require a bachelor's degree and foundational coursework in biological and physical sciences, psychology, and math. Many programs require two semesters each of biology, chemistry, and physics, including laboratory components.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab (2 semesters) | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Chemistry w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| Physics w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| Math or Statistics |
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| Psychology |
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Some programs also require Developmental or Abnormal Psychology, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or Medical Terminology.
Many DPT programs require or recommend documented observation or volunteer hours under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Some programs expect experience in more than one clinical setting.
Prerequisite requirements, minimum grades, and observation expectations vary by institution. Be sure to review individual DPT programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and experiences.
Applications to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: PTCAS (Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service).
- Direct applications: Some DPT programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, relevant academic, clinical, volunteer, or work experiences, and documentation of physical therapy observation hours when required. Some programs may also require an interview or supplemental application materials.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some DPT programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no physical therapy-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
- Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
- Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT)
- APTA: Becoming a Physical Therapist
- CAPTE Accredited Physical Therapy Programs
- PTCAS Program Directory
- PTCAS Applicant Help Center
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Physical Therapists
Podiatry (DPM)
Podiatrists are physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and related structures of the lower legs and feet. They provide medical and surgical care for injuries, deformities, infections, chronic diseases, and conditions affecting mobility. Podiatrists may specialize in areas such as foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine, diabetic foot care, wound management, and biomechanics. They work in hospitals, private practices, orthopedic and multispecialty clinics, and other healthcare settings, often collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Podiatrists earn a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree, followed by postgraduate residency training.
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) programs require substantial undergraduate coursework in biological and physical sciences.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| Chemistry w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| Organic Chemistry w/lab (2 Semesters) |
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| Physics w/Lab (2 semesters) |
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| English |
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Some programs also require Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Psychology, or Sociology.
Clinical experience, particularly shadowing a practicing podiatrist, is strongly encouraged and may be required by individual programs.
Prerequisite requirements and minimum GPA expectations vary by institution. Be sure to review individual DPM programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and experiences.
Applications to Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) programs are submitted through a centralized application service.
- Centralized application service: AACPMAS (American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Application Service).
- Supplemental applications: Some podiatric medical schools may require additional institution-specific materials.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, relevant academic, clinical, volunteer, or work experiences, and standardized admission test scores. Some programs may also require an interview.
The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is accepted by podiatric medical schools and remains an important admission examination. However, some schools also accept the DAT (Dental Admission Test) as an alternative. Be sure to review each program's accepted admission tests, application requirements, and deadlines before applying.
- American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM)
- Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME)
- American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examiners (APMLE)
- AACPM: Admissions
- AACPMAS Application Service
- CPME Accredited Podiatric Medical Colleges
- CPME Accredited Residency Programs
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Podiatrists
Prosthetics & Orthotics (MS)
Prosthetists and orthotists design, fit, and manage specialized devices that improve mobility, physical function, and independence for individuals with limb loss, injuries, disabilities, and other musculoskeletal or neurological conditions. Prosthetists work with artificial limbs that replace missing body parts, while orthotists develop supportive devices, such as braces, that stabilize, correct, or protect parts of the body. These healthcare providers evaluate patients, develop individualized treatment plans, select materials and technologies, and adjust devices to meet patients' needs. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, specialty clinics, private practices, and research settings, often collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and biomedical engineers. Prosthetists and orthotists earn a master's degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics, followed by supervised clinical residency training.
Master's programs in Prosthetics and Orthotics require a bachelor's degree and foundational coursework in biological and physical sciences. Preparation in anatomy, physiology, physics, and math is particularly valuable for understanding human movement, biomechanics, and assistive technologies.
| CONTENT AREAS | RPI COURSES |
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab | Cross-Registration with other colleges and universities |
| Chemistry w/Lab |
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| Physics w/Lab |
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| Math or Statistics |
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| Psychology |
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| Biomechanics |
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Some programs also require or recommend Human Development or Materials Science. Clinical observation, shadowing, or volunteer experience with a prosthetist or orthotist will also strengthen your application.
Prerequisite requirements vary by institution. Be sure to review individual programs carefully when planning your undergraduate coursework and experiences.
Applications to master's programs in Prosthetics and Orthotics may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: OPCAS (Orthotics and Prosthetics Centralized Application Service).
- Direct applications: Some programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or statement of purpose, a resume, and relevant academic, clinical, research, or work experiences. Some programs also require observation hours, an interview, or supplemental application materials.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no prosthetics and orthotics-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application and admission test policies and deadlines before applying.
- American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP)
- American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA)
- National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE)
- American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC)
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- NCOPE Accredited Orthotist/Prosthetist Programs
- OPCAS Application Information
- NCOPE Future Student FAQ
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Orthotists and Prosthetists
Public Health (MPH/MS/PhD)
Public health workers protect and improve population health by preventing disease, promoting healthy behaviors, addressing health disparities, and responding to community and global health challenges. They analyze health data, investigate patterns of disease, develop prevention programs, evaluate health policies, and coordinate initiatives that improve access to healthcare and community resources. Public health includes specialties such as Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Health Policy, Global Health, and Community Health. They work in government agencies, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, universities, and international health organizations, often collaborating with healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders. Graduate pathways include the Master of Public Health (MPH), which emphasizes public health practice; the Master of Science (MS), which emphasizes research and analysis; and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), which prepares graduates for advanced research and academic careers.
Graduate programs in Public Health require a bachelor's degree, but prerequisite coursework differs considerably by degree type and area of specialization. MPH programs admit students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, while research-focused MS and PhD programs may require stronger preparation in math, statistics, biological sciences, or related disciplines.
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| Biology w/Lab |
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| Chemistry or Environmental Science |
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| Statistics or Biostatistics |
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| Math |
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| Computer Science |
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| Psychology |
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If you’re interested in Epidemiology or Biostatistics, you should prioritize statistics, math, and research methods. If you would like to pursue Environmental Health, you’re encouraged to take additional coursework in biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences. Health Policy and Community Health programs may emphasize social sciences, communication, and public policy.
Some MPH programs do not require specific prerequisite courses. PhD programs usually expect previous research experience or graduate-level preparation. Be sure to review individual program requirements based on your intended degree and area of specialization.
Applications to graduate programs in Public Health may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: SOPHAS (Schools of Public Health Application Service).
- Direct applications: Some MPH, MS, and PhD programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, resume, and relevant academic, research, professional, volunteer, or community experiences. Research-focused programs may also request a writing sample, research statement, or information about prospective faculty mentors. Some programs require an interview.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some Public Health graduate programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no public health-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Public Health Association (APHA)
- Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH)
- Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
- Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE)
- ASPPH Academic Program Finder
- ASPPH Public Health Degrees
- CEPH Accredited Schools and Programs
- SOPHAS Application Information
- SOPHAS Applicant Help Center
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Epidemiologists
Speech Pathology (MS)
Speech-language pathologists diagnose, assess, and treat communication and swallowing disorders in individuals across the lifespan. They help patients with speech production, language comprehension and expression, voice disorders, stuttering, social communication, cognitive-communication difficulties, and swallowing challenges. Speech-language pathologists develop individualized treatment plans, provide therapeutic interventions, and help patients use communication technologies and adaptive strategies. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, outpatient clinics, private practices, and research institutions, often collaborating with physicians, audiologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and educators. Speech-language pathologists earn a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Master's programs in Speech-Language Pathology require a bachelor's degree. Students with undergraduate degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) may have already completed much of the required foundational coursework. Students from other academic backgrounds may need to complete additional CSD prerequisites before admission or through coursework incorporated into the graduate program. Courses may include Biology; Chemistry or Physics; Statistics; Psychology or Sociology; Anatomy & Physiology of Speech and Hearing; Phonetics; Language Development; Communication, Speech, and Language Disorders; Speech and Hearing Science; Audiology; Neurology, or Linguistics.
Prerequisite requirements vary considerably by institution and many programs offer prerequisite or leveling coursework for applicants without an undergraduate CSD degree. Be sure to review individual programs carefully to determine whether you must complete CSD coursework before admission or can complete it as part of your graduate program.
Applications to master's programs in Speech-Language Pathology may be submitted through a centralized application service or directly to individual institutions.
- Centralized application service: CSDCAS (Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service).
- Direct applications: Some Speech-Language Pathology programs require you to apply through their institution's graduate admissions.
Applications include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or statement of purpose, a resume, and relevant academic, clinical, research, volunteer, or work experiences. Some programs may also require an interview, supplemental materials, or documentation of completed prerequisite coursework.
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is required by some programs, while others have made it optional or eliminated the requirement. There is no speech-language pathology-specific standardized graduate admission test. Be sure to review each program's application requirements, prerequisite policies, admission test policies, and deadlines before applying.
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology (AAPPSPA)
- Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA)
- National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA)
- ASHA: Planning Your Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- ASHA EdFind
- CAA Accredited Graduate Programs
- CSDCAS Applicant Help Center
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Speech-Language Pathologists