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PATHWAYS TO MILITARY MEDICINE

About

USU offers a range of educational Pathway programs for military and civilian students from middle school through college and beyond. Pathways programs include informal shadowing opportunities, volunteer positions, paid internships, and formal academic programs for prospective students and others interested in careers in military medicine, biomedical research, and public health.

Resources

School of Medicine Admissions

 

School of Medicine Open Houses

 

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PATHWAYS PROGRAMS

Enlisted to Medical Degree Preparatory Program (EMDP2)

EMDP2 offers a structured, two-year preparatory course that allows talented enlisted military members to complete undergraduate medical school prerequisites and prepare for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Upon successful completion of the program, the enlisted students commission as officers in their respective services, and enter medical school at USU or at a civilian institution.

 

 

Summer Programs

Summer programs offer middle school, high school, and college students opportunities for hands-on learning and exposure to careers in medicine and science:

 

Military Medical Communities

A national network connecting aspiring military physicians with educational and mentorship opportunities. MMCs welcome undergraduate students, Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) medical students, residents, fellows, active duty and retired physicians, and essential support staff – a vibrant and supportive ecosystem supporting military medicine. Join our mailing list to receive updates, event information, and invitations to Military Medicine Mondays (monthly on Google Meet, 1830 - 2030 Eastern). On Military Medicine Mondays, you can:

  • Hear directly from military physicians about their experiences and the unique challenges and rewards of their service
  • Learn about the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and other pathways to a military medical career
  • Connect with current HPSP students and gain valuable peer perspectives
  • Discover the wide range of medical specialties and the cutting-edge research happening within the Military Health System
  • Explore opportunities for mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals
  • Attend break-out sessions for smaller group discussions and networking

 

Volunteer and Enrichment Opportunities

Volunteering allows students to gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment. Opportunities are available at: 

 

 

Shadowing offers students the opportunity to observe physicians at work in a military medical facility. Opportunities are available through: 

 

  • SCOOP (Student Clinical Observer Opportunities Program) at Walter Reed. Call 301-400-3995 or EMAIL with your availability and specialty interest(s). 

  • A.T. Augusta Military Medical Center. Contact Ms. Iris Hernandez - call 571-231-3358 or email iris.l.hernandez2.civ@mail.mil. 

 

Enrichment programs in healthcare and medicine offer training and research opportunities that can help students to find their own pathways to military medicine: 

 

 

Research: Internships and Fellowships

Research internships and fellowships allow high school and college students to observe and assist with research, with mentorship and guidance from graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and faculty members.  Select programs: