MEDPATH Program

Enriching the academic knowledge and skills of students from disadvantaged backgrounds in preparation for medicine

The Ohio State University College of Medicine Medical Careers Pathway Postbaccalaureate Program (MEDPATH) is a one-year program that strengthens students’ academic preparation before medical school.

Established in 1991 through a Health Careers Opportunity Program grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, MEDPATH selects 15 students each year to complete the program and matriculate to the Ohio State College of Medicine.

MEDPATH aims to increase the number of medical students from educationally and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds who are committed to serving medically underserved communities.

ernest moore headshot

“As a first-generation medical student, MEDPATH gave me confidence, mentorship, and a community that believed in my potential before I fully believed in myself. I thank God, along with my parents, family, and the MEDPATH program, for believing in me, helping me reach this milestone, and preparing me to succeed at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.”

-Ernest, MD Class of 2029


Eligibility

Students who wish to be considered for referral to MEDPATH must satisfy the following criteria:

  • A minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in the Science GPA (BCPM), All other courses GPA (AO) or Total GPA on the AMCAS Application
  • A bachelor's degree by the start of the program
  • United States citizenship or permanent resident status
  • Completion of all required prerequisites, including MCAT
  • Strong non-cognitive characteristics, including emotional maturity, character, sense of caring for others, communication skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and commitment to service.
  • Applicants must show clear evidence of a commitment to practice in a medically underserved community. This can be demonstrated through substantial volunteer activity in service to an underserved or economically disadvantaged community, such as free clinics or mobile health units.
  • At least one personal/professional experience letter, submitted through AMCAS, that attests to the applicant’s desire to serve underserved communities as a physician is highly encouraged.

Application process

  • Submit a completed AMCAS application, listing The Ohio State University College of Medicine as a school selection, along with transcripts. 
    Deadline: November 1
  • Complete and submit the Ohio State College of Medicine Secondary Application.
    Deadline: December 1
  • Be referred to MEDPATH by the College of Medicine Admissions Committee and complete the MEDPATH supplemental application provided via your status page.
    Deadline: December 15 (pending confirmation)
  • Virtual interviews with the College of Medicine Admissions Committee.
    Date: February

Program experience

MEDPATH begins in August with a one-week orientation focused on learning strategies, test-taking and problem solving.

During the academic year, students take courses that may include biochemistry, genetics, histology, medical terminology, microbiology and physiology. Tutoring is provided for the most challenging courses.

The final phase of MEDPATH is the eight-week Summer Pre-Entry focused on human gross anatomy, biochemistry and immunology. Conditional acceptance is awarded following successful completion of the program.

Successful program completion criteria

To matriculate to the Ohio State College of Medicine, MEDPATH students must complete the academic, professional and program requirements listed below by the end of the program.

  1. Attend the weeklong orientation in August.
  2. Follow the individual academic plan designed by MEDPATH staff and the student.
  3. Attend scheduled semester cohort meetings and semester one-on-one meetings.
  4. Attend all MCAT preparation course sections, complete all related assignments and earn an overall grade of “Satisfactory.” Requirements include:
    1. Complete The Princeton Review baseline assessment.
    2. Attain a practice score greater than or equal to the 51st percentile on two MCAT practice exams by March.
    3. Maintain attendance greater than 50% for the prep course duration.
  5. Comply with the professionalism standards of the Ohio State College of Medicine.
  6. Earn a total MCAT score greater than or equal to the 51st percentile on the May MCAT administration and meet or exceed a cumulative GPA of 3.0 by the end of spring semester.
  7. Meet or exceed a minimum passing score of 70% in the Summer Pre-Entry Program.
  8. Follow all relevant Ohio State College of Medicine policies.

Students who do not meet the MEDPATH Postbaccalaureate Program Successful Program Completion Criteria, or who are dismissed from the program, may not repeat the year or reapply.

Working while enrolled in MEDPATH is strongly discouraged. Students who must work should limit employment to no more than 20 hours per week.

Financial aid and support

Information regarding financial aid, including cost of attendance, scholarships and loans, may be accessed through the College of Medicine's Financial Services page. A limited number of university tuition waivers are available to students participating in MEDPATH.

For more information: 
Nikki Goldsberry, EdD, LMSW, MA
Program Manager - MEDPATH Postbaccalaureate Program
nikki.goldsberry@osumc.edu 

Office of Medical Education
428 Hamilton Hall
1645 Neil Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210

 

 

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