Making the transition from your current career to healthcare or graduate school can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing a full-time job with the need to complete prerequisite courses. Whether you’re dreaming of medical school, planning to become a physician assistant, or pursuing another health science graduate program, the good news is that thousands of working professionals successfully complete their prerequisite courses every year. To enhance your chances, it is essential to prioritize your studies and efficiently complete prerequisite courses.
This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to manage prerequisite courses while maintaining your career, complete with strategies, timelines, and resources to make your educational journey as smooth as possible.
To effectively manage your time, you’ll need to strategize how to complete prerequisite courses alongside your work commitments. Consider the following tips to smoothly complete prerequisite courses without sacrificing your job performance.
Why Working Professionals Need Prerequisites
Most graduate programs in healthcare require specific foundational courses to ensure students have the scientific background needed for advanced study. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), typical medical school prerequisites include:
- Biology (1 year with lab)
- General Chemistry (1 year with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (1 year with lab)
- Physics (1 year with lab)
- Mathematics (including statistics and calculus)
- English/Writing (1 year)
- Behavioral Sciences (psychology, sociology)
Similar requirements exist for other health professions, with programs like physician assistant, physical therapy, and pharmacy having their own specific prerequisite lists.
The challenge for working adults is that these courses weren’t part of their original undergraduate degree, or they need to refresh knowledge from courses taken years ago. Harvard Medical School notes that prerequisite coursework completed more than five years ago may need to be retaken.
Understanding Your Options: Traditional vs. Online Prerequisites
Traditional Classroom Courses
Pros:
- Face-to-face interaction with professors
- Structured lab experiences
- Built-in study groups and peer support
- Often preferred by admissions committees
Cons:
- Fixed schedules that conflict with work
- Limited course offerings (usually daytime)
- Higher costs with parking, commuting
- Semester-based timing constraints
Online Prerequisite Courses
Pros:
How to Complete Prerequisite Courses Effectively
- Complete flexibility in scheduling
- Self-paced progression options
- Lower overall costs
- No commuting time
- Start dates throughout the year
Cons:
- Requires strong self-discipline
- Limited lab experiences (though many programs offer virtual labs)
- Less direct interaction with instructors
- Some schools may have preferences for traditional courses
Important Note: Most accredited online programs are widely accepted by graduate schools. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing recognizes that online education has become mainstream and is generally equivalent to traditional classroom instruction.
Creating Your Prerequisite Timeline
The 2-3 Year Approach (Recommended for Most Working Professionals)
Year 1:
- Fall: General Chemistry I
- Spring: General Chemistry II
- Summer: Biology I or Mathematics
Year 2:
- Fall: Biology I (if not taken) + Organic Chemistry I
- Spring: Biology II + Organic Chemistry II
- Summer: Physics I
Year 3:
- Fall: Physics II + Statistics
- Spring: Any remaining courses + MCAT prep
- Summer: MCAT exam
The Accelerated 18-Month Approach
This intensive timeline works for highly motivated individuals with flexible work schedules:
Months 1-6: General Chemistry sequence Months 7-12: Biology + Organic Chemistry (double science load) Months 13-18: Physics + remaining courses
The Extended 4-Year Approach
Ideal for those with very demanding careers or family obligations:
- Take one science course per semester
- Use summers for non-lab courses like statistics or psychology
- Allows for better work-life balance
Time Management Strategies That Actually Work
1. The “Micro-Study” Method
Break study sessions into 25-30 minute focused blocks throughout your day:
- Morning: 30 minutes before work
- Lunch break: 25 minutes of review
- Evening: 45-60 minutes of new material
- Weekend: 2-3 hour intensive sessions
2. Optimize Your Commute
- Listen to lecture recordings during commutes
- Use apps like Khan Academy for MCAT prep
- Review flashcards on public transportation
- Schedule phone study groups during drives (hands-free)
3. Weekend Intensive Strategy
- Saturday mornings: 3-4 hour study blocks
- Sunday afternoons: Problem sets and practice exams
- One weekend day for lab work (if online program requires)
4. Leverage Technology
Study Apps:
- Anki: Spaced repetition flashcards
- Quizlet: Collaborative study sets
- Notability: Digital note-taking with audio recording
- Forest: Focus and time management
Online Resources:
Choosing the Right Program Format
Self-Paced Online Programs
Best for: Highly motivated self-starters with irregular schedules
Self-paced programs allow you to complete coursework on your own timeline. Programs like those offered by University of New England and PrereqCourses.com let you start courses monthly and finish as quickly or slowly as needed.
Success Tips:
- Set personal deadlines to maintain momentum
- Create accountability with study partners
- Use calendar blocking to protect study time
Structured Online Programs
Best for: Those who need external deadlines and structure
Traditional semester-based online programs provide more structure while still offering evening and weekend flexibility.
Hybrid Programs
Best for: Students who want some face-to-face interaction
Many community colleges offer hybrid prerequisites with online lectures and weekend lab sessions.
Managing Lab Requirements While Working
Laboratory components are often the biggest challenge for working students. Here are your options:
1. Weekend Lab Intensives
Many programs offer concentrated weekend lab experiences:
- Friday evening + Saturday full day
- Intensive weekend workshops
- Summer intensive programs
2. Virtual Labs
Modern virtual lab platforms like Labster provide realistic simulations that many graduate programs now accept. Check with your target schools about their virtual lab policies.
3. Evening Lab Sessions
Some community colleges and universities offer evening lab times specifically for working adults.
4. Summer Lab Intensives
Take vacation time for intensive summer lab programs that complete a full semester’s worth of lab work in 1-2 weeks.
Financial Planning for Prerequisites
Cost Comparison
Community College: $300-800 per course State University: $800-1,500 per course
Private University: $1,500-3,000 per course Online Programs: $400-1,200 per course
Money-Saving Strategies
- Start at Community College: Complete general requirements at lower cost, then transfer
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer $2,000-5,000 annually for job-related education
- Tax Benefits: Education expenses may be tax-deductible
- Payment Plans: Many programs offer monthly payment options
- Military Benefits: Veterans can often use GI Bill benefits for prerequisites
According to U.S. News, students can save up to 70% on prerequisite costs by choosing the right program format and institution.
Maintaining Work Performance During Prerequisites
Communication with Your Employer
Be Strategic About Disclosure:
- Focus on skill development that benefits current role
- Emphasize commitment to excellence in both areas
- Propose flexible arrangements that benefit both parties
Potential Arrangements:
- Adjusted work hours (early start for afternoon classes)
- Work-from-home days during exam periods
- Compressed workweeks (4 ten-hour days)
- Reduced travel during intensive course periods
Energy Management
Physical Health:
- Maintain regular exercise (even 20 minutes daily)
- Prioritize sleep (minimum 6-7 hours)
- Meal prep to avoid decision fatigue
- Stay hydrated and limit caffeine dependence
Mental Health:
- Set realistic expectations
- Celebrate small wins
- Build in buffer time for setbacks
- Consider counseling support during stressful periods
Study Strategies for Working Adults
1. Active Learning Techniques
- Feynman Technique: Explain concepts in simple terms
- Problem-Based Learning: Focus on application over memorization
- Spaced Repetition: Review material at increasing intervals
- Interleaving: Mix different types of problems in study sessions
2. Creating Study Groups
Virtual Study Groups:
- Weekly video calls with classmates
- Shared Google Docs for notes and questions
- WhatsApp groups for quick questions
- Zoom study sessions on weekends
Local Study Groups:
- Library study sessions
- Coffee shop meetups
- University study rooms
- Medical/health profession meetup groups
3. Maximizing Retention
Before Class/Lecture:
- Preview material for 10-15 minutes
- Identify 2-3 key concepts to focus on
- Prepare specific questions
During Class/Lecture:
- Take notes by hand when possible
- Use Cornell note-taking method
- Record lectures (with permission)
- Participate actively in discussions
After Class/Lecture:
- Review notes within 24 hours
- Create summary sheets
- Practice problems immediately
- Teach concepts to someone else
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Falling Behind Due to Work Demands
Solution:
- Build buffer time into your schedule
- Have a “minimal viable study” plan for busy weeks
- Communicate early with instructors about conflicts
- Consider lighter course loads during busy work seasons
Challenge 2: Laboratory Scheduling Conflicts
Solution:
- Research lab schedules before enrolling
- Look for programs with weekend or evening labs
- Consider intensive summer lab programs
- Explore virtual lab options
Challenge 3: Maintaining Motivation
Solution:
- Connect with other career-changing students
- Join online communities like Student Doctor Network
- Set short-term and long-term goals
- Create a vision board for your future career
Challenge 4: Family and Social Pressures
Solution:
- Involve family in your goal-setting process
- Set clear boundaries around study time
- Schedule dedicated family time
- Communicate your timeline and needs clearly
Technology Tools for Success
Study Management Apps
- Notion: All-in-one workspace for notes, schedules, and goal tracking
- Todoist: Task management with project organization
- Google Calendar: Time blocking and deadline management
- Evernote: Cross-platform note organization
Science-Specific Tools
- ChemSketch: Draw chemical structures
- Periodic Table Apps: Quick reference for chemistry
- 3D Molecular Viewers: Visualize organic compounds
- Physics Calculators: Solve complex physics problems
Time Tracking
- RescueTime: Automatic time tracking
- Toggl: Manual time tracking with detailed reports
- Forest: Gamified focus sessions
- Freedom: Block distracting websites and apps
Preparing for Graduate School Applications
Building Your Application While Taking Prerequisites
Research Experience:
- Look for part-time research opportunities
- Volunteer in labs during weekends
- Participate in online research projects
- Consider summer research intensives
Clinical Experience:
- Volunteer at hospitals during off-hours
- Shadow healthcare professionals
- Join medical mission trips
- Participate in health fairs and community events
Leadership and Service:
- Join professional organizations
- Volunteer with health-related nonprofits
- Mentor other career-changing students
- Organize study groups or educational events
Letters of Recommendation
From Prerequisite Instructors:
- Participate actively in online discussions
- Attend virtual office hours regularly
- Submit high-quality assignments consistently
- Ask thoughtful questions
From Work Supervisors:
- Demonstrate transferable skills
- Show leadership in healthcare-related projects
- Maintain excellent performance during prerequisites
- Ask for letters early in the process
Success Stories: Real Examples
Sarah, Marketing Manager → Medical School
“I completed my prerequisites over 2.5 years while working as a marketing manager. The key was treating it like a part-time job – I ‘clocked in’ every weekday from 6-8 AM and Saturday mornings. Online courses from UNE Online gave me the flexibility I needed.”
Her Timeline:
- Year 1: General Chemistry, Biology I
- Year 2: Organic Chemistry, Biology II, Physics I
- Year 3: Physics II, Statistics, MCAT prep
- Result: Accepted to three medical schools
Michael, Software Engineer → Physician Assistant
“As a software engineer with a family, I needed maximum flexibility. I chose self-paced courses and completed them in 18 months by studying during lunch breaks and early mornings. The hardest part was organic chemistry, but online office hours and virtual study groups made it manageable.”
His Strategy:
- 30 minutes daily during lunch break
- 1 hour before work (5:30-6:30 AM)
- 3-4 hours on weekend mornings
- Used vacation days for lab intensives
Creating Your Action Plan
Step 1: Assess Your Situation (Week 1)
Career Assessment:
- How flexible is your current job?
- What are your peak work seasons?
- How much time can you realistically dedicate?
- What financial resources do you have?
Academic Assessment:
- Which prerequisites do you need?
- How long since you took science courses?
- What’s your target application timeline?
- Which schools are you considering?
Step 2: Research Programs (Weeks 2-3)
Program Options:
- Local community colleges and universities
- Online program options
- Hybrid program availability
- Cost comparisons and financial aid
Create a spreadsheet comparing:
- Cost per credit hour
- Schedule flexibility
- Lab requirements
- Accreditation status
- Graduate school acceptance rates
Step 3: Create Your Timeline (Week 4)
Factors to Consider:
- Work schedule and busy seasons
- Family obligations and travel
- Financial budget and payment schedules
- Target application deadlines
Sample Timeline Template:
- Year 1, Semester 1: Course 1 + Course 2
- Year 1, Semester 2: Course 3 + Course 4
- Year 1, Summer: Course 5 or Break
- Year 2, Semester 1: Course 6 + Course 7
- (Continue through completion)
Step 4: Set Up Your Support System (Week 5)
Academic Support:
- Study group formation
- Tutoring resources
- Online communities
- Mentorship connections
Personal Support:
- Family communication and boundary-setting
- Childcare arrangements
- Meal planning and preparation
- Exercise and stress management plans
Step 5: Begin Your First Course (Week 6+)
First Week Focus:
- Establish daily study routine
- Set up physical and digital study spaces
- Connect with classmates and instructors
- Fine-tune your schedule based on reality
Maintaining Long-Term Success
Quarterly Reviews
Every three months, assess:
- Are you meeting your timeline goals?
- Is your study schedule sustainable?
- Do you need to adjust course loads?
- How is your work-life balance?
Stress Management
Warning Signs:
- Declining work performance
- Relationship strain
- Physical exhaustion
- Loss of motivation
Prevention Strategies:
- Regular exercise routine
- Adequate sleep schedule
- Social connections maintenance
- Professional counseling if needed
Staying Motivated
Short-term Motivators:
- Complete one module/chapter per week
- Achieve target grades on exams
- Finish each course successfully
- Build study streaks
Long-term Motivators:
- Visualize your future career
- Connect with current students in your target program
- Attend information sessions and school visits
- Celebrate major milestones (completing each course)
Resources and Support
Online Communities
Educational Resources
- Khan Academy: Free video lessons and practice
- Coursera: University courses with flexible scheduling
- EdX: MIT and Harvard course content
- PrereqCourses.com: Self-paced prerequisite courses designed for working adults
Professional Organizations
Conclusion: Your Path Forward
Completing prerequisite courses while working full-time is challenging but entirely achievable with the right strategy and mindset. The key is to approach it systematically: assess your situation honestly, choose the right program format for your needs, create a realistic timeline, and build strong support systems.
Remember that thousands of working professionals make this transition successfully every year. Your professional experience, maturity, and motivation are actually advantages in this process. The skills you’ve developed in your career – time management, problem-solving, and perseverance – will serve you well in both prerequisites and your future graduate program.
The investment of time and energy you make now in completing prerequisites will open doors to a fulfilling healthcare career. Whether your goal is medical school, physician assistant programs, physical therapy, or another health profession, taking that first step toward completing your prerequisites is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Remember, to complete prerequisite courses effectively, you must stay organized and motivated throughout the process.
Ready to get started? Begin by researching prerequisite requirements for your target programs, exploring flexible course options, and creating your personalized timeline. Your future healthcare career is waiting – and with the right plan, you can get there while maintaining your current professional and personal commitments.
For personalized guidance on completing prerequisite courses while working, consider scheduling a consultation with an academic advisor who specializes in career-changing students. Many online programs offer free advising sessions to help you create a customized plan that fits your unique situation.
As you embark on this journey, remember that the ability to complete prerequisite courses is not just about dedication, but also about finding the right support and resources to help you succeed. Many individuals have successfully managed to complete prerequisite courses alongside their careers, proving that it is possible with the right approach.
Completing prerequisite courses should be viewed as a stepping stone toward your future ambitions. The journey to complete prerequisite courses will demand your focus and commitment, but the rewards are well worth the effort as you pave the way for a successful career in healthcare.
Completing prerequisite courses efficiently requires dedication and a well-structured plan. Set clear goals for yourself to ensure you remain focused on your aim to complete prerequisite courses while balancing work.
