Requirements

Bachelor of Sciences in Health Science (BSHS)
First-Year Applicant Requirements

At the University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR) each student is respected as an individual. We begin this individual attention at the point of application. We have prepared an Application Checklist that will help guide you through the application process. Once your application is complete, it will be reviewed individually and holistically, meaning we consider every part of your application, not just your GPA and ACT/SAT scores. Please read through all of the academic requirements on this page before you apply!

Academic Requirements:

• Successful Completion of a College Preparatory Curriculum
  • Four years of English with emphasis on writing, including instruction in reading and speaking skills and literary understanding and appreciation reading; speech course, such as introductory speech, public speaking, and debate.
  • Three years of mathematics including one year each of elementary algebra, geometry, and intermediate algebra. UMR highly recommends four years of mathematics and completion of a mathematics course during the senior year of high school.
  • Three years of science including at least one year biological and physical sciences including laboratory experiences. UMR highly recommends four years of science.
  • Three years of social studies including one year of US History (applicants will be given full consideration if they are missing US History).
  • Two years of a single foreign language (applicants who are missing this requirement will not be denied admission if they are otherwise admissible).
• Standardized Test Scores First year students must submit scores from the American College Testing (ACT) Assessment Program or the College Board’s SAT Reasoning Test. For both exams, the writing section is required. As a basis for admission, applicants’ ACT/SAT scores should clearly indicate strength in their aptitude and preparation. Applicants should complete the ACT/SAT assessment during one of the national testing periods (preferably spring or summer of the applicant’s junior year of high school or fall of their senior year of high school) and have their assessment report sent to UMR (ACT code 2154, SAT code 5877).
• High school and college grade point averages If a student did not complete high school, a GED (General Equivalency Diploma) may be accepted in lieu of high school transcripts.
• Application Essay Applicants must submit a typed essay (approximately 300 to 500 words) on one of the options listed below. The application essay provides an opportunity for the Admissions Office to become acquainted with the student as a person and a student, apart from courses, grades, test scores, and other objective data. It will also demonstrate the student’s ability to organize thoughts and express themselves.
  • Option A: Describe a person or experience that influenced your decision to pursue an education in health sciences.
  • Option B: Describe the qualities you possess that will help you be successful as a student and a professional in the field of health sciences.
• STEM GPA Earned high school grade point average in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).

The University of Minnesota Rochester campus may also consider the following additional review factors:

• Letter of recommendation or Teacher Evaluation (STRONGLY recommended but not required).
• Involvement in health science related volunteer or employment opportunities.
• Exceptionally rigorous academic curriculum, to include courses that exceed the college preparatory curriculum, honors, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and/or college level courses.
• Evidence of exceptional achievement, aptitude, or personal accomplishment including that which may not be reflected in the academic record or standardized test scores.
• Outstanding high school or community involvement.
• Work experience, paid or unpaid.
• Participation in extracurricular college preparatory programs (e.g., MEP, PSEO, Talent Search, UMTYMP, Upward Bound, and other programs).
• Evidence of exceptional talent or ability in scholarly research or leadership.
• Evidence of exceptional motivation, maturity, or responsibility.
• Evidence of having overcome social, economic, or physical barriers to educational achievement.
• Evidence that enrollment would enhance the cultural, gender, age, economic, racial, or geographic diversity of the student body.
• Extenuating circumstances.

If you are an international student (non-U.S. citizen who is not a U.S. permanent resident) please read the International Admissions information.

If you are applying as a transfer student, please contact the Admissions Office.