Should I waste my time on an 4 year degree

[allthaticanbe1]

Would a four year degree be better then a three year degree? I had picked the three year degree at first but after talking to an advisor she suggest that I do a four year degree. Claiming that by the time I graduate (two years) that medical schools will require a four year degree. I know that Western wants a four year degree. But does anyone think the other school will soon follow the same suit and change the requirements?

[arjuna83]

A lot more people with 4 year degrees get into medical school, but that's probably because they comprise the most number of applicants.

Having a 4 year degree does have it's advantages, particularly if you decide to advance in your studies and do graduate school. Four year degrees are starting to become the norm in the workplace as well. In the US, they don't even offer3 year degrees anymore (atleast not to my knowledge); this is also true in certain parts of Canada.

Bottom line: you will have a lot more options to work with if you pursue a four year degree.

[therealcrackers]

Waste? The extra year is not a waste. I learned more in my fourth year of undergrad than I did in the previous three combined. Plus the extra year of life experience helped too.

The advantage of a four year degree is that it sets you up for a greater variety of things. I didn't get into med school first time I applied, but I had the four year degree that meant I was eligible for grad school. Got in, and when I finished, my application was successful. I'm now a first year resident.

Having a three year degree also shuts you out of some of the more interesting jobs; depending on your field, of course. Many research and pharmaceutical jobs will need at least a four-year, if not a Master's.

If you want to do medicine, the added life experience of that extra, busy year, will likely help you relate to your studies and your patients better.

[muchdutch]

I agree with therealcrackers. Why are you in such a hurry? Unless you are a non-traditional applicant (read: older) which it sounds as though you're not, why not take the time to enjoy the experiences you will have along the way? As mentioned before, it seems more and more apparent that a 4 year degree is the better option nowadays for getting into med.

[Dumbass]

what will u do if u don't get in after 3 yrs? U'll be diong nothing!

If you're in a 4 yr degree, you have another year to apply again!

[Zuckman]

Ya,
4 year degree gives you waayyy more options in terms of jobs out there as well as better chances of getting into medschool. Ottawa U generally takes very few 3rd yrs.
Zucker

[TimmyMax]

Hey,

Do a four-year degree, preferably an honours degree. You'll thank yourself for it later.

Best of luck!
Timmy

[Doctor Citan]

Ouch, here in Québec, most bachelor's degree are three years.