Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
Summer Health Professions Education Program
A free summer program to explore medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and more across 12 partner institutions, building applicant competencies, clinical exposure, and professional networks.
Who should apply
A great fit for current college freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds who are exploring careers across the health professions.
Eligibility
- 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
What you get
- Free summer program exploring medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, public health, and more
- Academic enrichment, clinical exposure, and networking
What the application involves
- Personal statement
- Letter of recommendation
- Applying to 3 program sites is recommended
Application tips
- 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.
Good to know
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.
Other opportunities like this one
Same kind of opportunity, soonest deadline first.
Apply anytime
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