The Ohio State University College of Medicine Medical Careers Pathway Post Baccalaureate Program (MEDPATH) is a one-year program aimed at developing and enriching your academic knowledge and skills to set you up for success prior to entering medical school. The program is designed to increase the number of students from economically and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds who graduate from medical school.
MEDPATH began in 1991 with a Health Careers Opportunity Program grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration. Each year a cohort of 15 students are selected complete the program annually and matriculate to the College of Medicine.
We at Ohio State’s College of Medicine know that a diverse class promotes cultural awareness and understanding and creates an appreciation for the importance of producing physicians who can better serve a diverse community.
The program’s aim is to increase the number students from educationally and/or socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds who enter medical school, and who show evidence of a commitment to practice in a medically underserved community.
To complement this mission, students who are not from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds may also be considered for admission to MEDPATH with the following conditions:
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The student must show clear evidence of a commitment to practice in a medically underserved community. This can be demonstrated by extensive volunteer activity in service to an underserved or economically disadvantaged community (e.g., free clinics, mobile health units) or other extensive volunteer service to persons from lower socioeconomic communities).
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In addition, at least one personal/professional experience letter, submitted through AMCAS, that attests to the candidate's desire to serve underserved communities as a physician is highly desirable.
Selection and Application Process
To be considered for the MEDPATH program, you must apply to The Ohio State College of Medicine through the AMCAS application. After submitting your application, the MEDPATH application is available by invitation only to those who meet specific criteria for qualification. There is no separate application or process in order to be considered for this program. If you are chosen for application to the MEDPATH program, you will be asked to complete the MEDPATH supplemental application by January 4.
Program
MEDPATH begins in August with a one-week orientation, which includes assessment and instruction in learning strategies, test taking and problem solving.
Courses taken during the academic year (autumn and spring semesters) include biochemistry, genetics, histology, medical terminology, microbiology and physiology. Tutoring is provided for the most challenging courses. Community service projects, a mentoring program, and professional development sessions are integral components of the Post Baccalaureate Program.
The final six-week summer component (Pre-Entry Program) consists of instruction in human gross anatomy, biochemistry and immunology. Conditional acceptance is awarded following the successful completion of the program.
Deadline
Midnight EST on November 1 is the deadline for all applications to be received by AMCAS. Early applications are encouraged.
Financial Aid
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.