There is typically no set quantity, however, the average accepted student does have upwards of hundreds of hours in different areas. Before stressing out, consider that it is more about the quality and not the quantity of the hours. It is not a checkbox! One student that has 500 hours in shadowing may not be a better applicant than one that has 100. Each student is different and should focus on building an application that portrays a picture of who they are as a person. Consistency is more valuable then quantity. Over a period of time, hours easily add up. Pre-veterinary students are required to have at least 100 hours under a licensed Veterinarian. Some PA programs also require a certain amount of direct patient care/healthcare experiences. Volunteer opportunities can be found on the Special Programs, Volunteering, and Research Opportunities Page.
Suggested amount of consistent healthcare related hours:
Pre-Med: 250+ shadowing, direct patient care, volunteering, etc.
Pre-Dental: 100+ shadowing, volunteering, etc.
Pre-PA: 350+ direct patient care and shadowing
Pre-Pharmacy: 100+ hours shadowing, Pharm Tech experience, volunteering
Pre-Vet: 100+ hours under licensed Vet
Pre-PT: 150+ hours shadowing, direct patient care