About the Program 

The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine Office of Education Support is pleased to offer the University of Iowa Pathway to Health Professions (UIPHP), a free, four-week summer enrichment program for Iowa residents interested in pursuing careers as physicians or physician associates.

UIPHP is designed to help students explore the possibilities of a career in medicine, while helping scholars strengthen their preparation for the next steps in their educational journey.  Through academic enrichment, hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to clinical environments, scholars will develop a deeper understanding of careers in medicine and the pathways to medical and physician associate education.  

Throughout the program scholars will strengthen their study skills, learn about the professional school admissions process, explore factors that influence health outcomes, and develop meaningful connections with health professionals, faculty, peers, and mentors. 

Academic Enrichment 

Scholars will participate in foundational science instruction in subjects such as anatomy and physiology, physics, and organic chemistry. These learning experiences are designed to introduce scholars to concepts they may encounter in future coursework and help them develop effective strategies for succeeding in rigorous science courses.

Interprofessional Education 

High-quality health care depends on collaboration. Scholars will learn about the roles and responsibilities of different health professionals and explore how physicians, physician associates, and other members of the health care team work together to care for patients and communities. Through interprofessional learning experiences, scholars will begin developing the communication and teamwork skills essential to collaborative health care. 

Clinical Exploration 

 Scholars will have opportunities to observe physicians, physician assistants, and other health professionals at the University of Iowa Health Care and in select community settings. These experiences will provide a firsthand look at patient care, clinical teamwork, and the day-to-day practice of health professionals. 

Additional opportunities may include engagement with the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic, which provides free health services to communities across Iowa. 

Mentorship and Community 

Mentorship and connection are central to the UIPHP experience. Scholars will engage with current medical and health professions students, physicians, physician associates, faculty, and other health professionals who can share their experiences and perspectives on preparing for and pursuing careers in health care. 

Mentors will provide scholars with valuable perspectives on navigating college, preparing for professional school, developing effective learning strategies, and making thoughtful decisions about their educational and career paths. Scholars will also build relationships with fellow participants, creating a supportive community of peers who share an interest in the health professions.

Preparing for the Next Step 

UIPHP is about more than exploring a career; it is about helping scholars see and prepare for the path ahead. By the end of the four-week experience, scholars will have greater familiarity with medical and physician associate education, a stronger understanding of the professional school application process, new academic and professional skills, and a network of peers and mentors to support their continued growth.