MedPATH is a monthly pathway program designed to provide structured exposure to medical education and healthcare careers for high school juniors and seniors, community college students, and individuals in gap years or non-traditional academic pathways who are interested in pursuing medicine.
The program introduces participants to foundational concepts in medicine, clinical reasoning, and the physician training pathway through organized instructional sessions. Activities are facilitated by medical students, faculty, and healthcare professionals and are intended to provide early academic and professional exposure to the field of medicine.
MedPATH supports participants in developing a clearer understanding of the competencies, expectations, and preparation required for admission to medical school. The program emphasizes structured learning, mentorship, and engagement with topics relevant to medical education and healthcare delivery. Sessions are held monthly during the academic year and are designed to provide exposure to key aspects of the medical profession.
Certificate of Completion
Participants who attend at least seven MedPATH sessions during the academic year will receive a Certificate of Completion recognizing their commitment to exploring careers in medicine.
Who Should Attend?
MedPATH is intended for individuals who are exploring academic and career pathways in medicine, including:
- High school juniors and seniors
- Community college students
- Individuals in a gap year or non-traditional academic pathways
- Applicants considering future admission to the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson
- Students seeking early exposure to medical education and clinical careers
Applicants are expected to demonstrate an interest in healthcare and a commitment to participation in scheduled monthly sessions.
Topics Include:
MedPATH sessions will rotate through a variety of interactive, medically focused topics, including:
- Introduction to medical school and the physician training pathway
- Clinical skills workshops (communication, observation, basic exam skills)
- Anatomy and physiology demonstrations
- Simulation lab and hands-on learning experiences
- Health disparities and community medicine in Arizona
- Mentorship opportunities with current UA COM - T medical students
- Professionalism, teamwork, and healthcare communication
What to Expect
MedPATH is structured as a cohort-based learning experience that provides consistent exposure to medical education.
- Monthly sessions during the academic year
- Cohort size limited to approximately 25 participants
- Structured instructional and interactive learning activities
- Facilitated sessions led by medical students, faculty, and clinicians
- Exposure to simulation-based or clinical learning environments when available
- Opportunities for guided discussion and mentorship
The program is intended to provide foundational exposure rather than advanced clinical training.
Registration is required. Register for the next MedPATH session.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. MedPATH is completely free.
No. The program is designed for students exploring careers in medicine.
Yes. Space is limited, and registration is required for each session.
Selection is first-come, first-served, and registration is via the sign-up link. We are currently capping each session at 25 students. Once a session is filled, additional registrations will be placed on our waitlist for that specific session. As space becomes available, students will be taken off the waitlist in the order they registered.
Yes, students must register each month for the upcoming session. It is recommended to register as close to the opening of registration as possible to improve your chances of getting into the session.
The dress code is casual, but students must wear comfortable closed-toed shoes. Please leave backpacks, purses, and bags at home; if you do not, you will be asked to leave them in the lobby.
Contact & More Information
For questions or to learn more about upcoming MedPATH events, please contact: COM-Engagement@arizona.edu