Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)

A great fit for current college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds who are exploring careers across the health professions.

• Currently enrolled as a freshman, sophomore, or junior in college (some sites accept only freshmen/sophomores)
• Minimum overall college GPA of 2.5
• Credit limits apply (most sites up to 60 credits, some up to 90; AP/IB credits don't count, dual-enrollment credits do)
• U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA recipient
• Priority for students from an economically or educationally disadvantaged background and/or with demonstrated interest in underserved populations

• Free summer program exploring medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, public health, and more
• Academic enrichment, clinical exposure, and networking

• Personal statement
• Letter of recommendation
• Applying to 3 program sites is recommended

• Apply to multiple (ideally three) sites to maximize your chances.
• In your personal statement, connect your background and goals to serving underserved communities.
• Request your recommendation letter early from someone who knows your academic potential.
• Confirm your credit count against the site's limit (AP/IB excluded, dual-enrollment counts).
• Apply early — sites can fill on a rolling basis.

National program at multiple academic partner sites. Per the official site, the program will conclude after the 2026 summer cohort due to a funding shift by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Stipend/housing specifics vary by site.