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Medical Student Pathways and Program

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Overview

Pathways at UW School of Medicine are designed to engage medical students interested in learning more about diverse populations, disparities in health that ensue due to social determinants of health, and community resilience in the face of exceptional challenges in health and access to healthcare.

UW Office of Healthcare Equity (OHCE) hosts 6 Pathways and the Community-Urban Scholars Program (CUSP) that that offer students the opportunity to pursue their interest and develop knowledge and skills specifically tailored to working with underserved populations. These pathways include the following curricula: non-clinical elective courses, clinical clerkships, asynchronous modules, student-led initiatives, scholarship and leadership opportunities.

Collectively, these Pathways aim to improve the health of the public – the mission of UW Medicine – and represent a crucial commitment to addressing systemic health inequities, equipping future physicians with the specific knowledge and cultural humility needed to provide exceptional care and advocate for underserved populations throughout the WWAMI region.

The Pathway programs have always been student and community driven. We honor both students and faculty who initiated these pathways, the faculty who have educated and mentored students, and the many students over the years who have completed the Pathways programming.

How to Apply

The OHCE-hosted Pathways welcome applications from all UW School of Medicine students throughout WWAMI. While students may apply at any stage of medical school, applying during the first year is strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to complete pathway coursework and fully engage in program opportunities. Please review each Pathway website for more information about Pathway-specific completion requirements,

All Pathway programs (USOM Pathway Programs) will host an online information session on September 22 for students interested in learning more about the pathways, program requirements, and application process

We encourage interested students to attend the September information session to learn more about pathway opportunities and identify the program that best aligns with their interests and goals.

Events

  • Information Session: UWSOM Pathways MS1 Fall Q&A
    Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 7:00 PM-8:00 PM
    Zoom Link: https://washington.zoom.us/j/98117157115
  • The Student Activities Fair
    Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 5:00-6:30 PM
    Location: Health Sciences Education Building, Room 325
    Refreshments: Pizza and snacks will be provided—While supplies last

OHCE Pathway Highlights

6 Pathways

30+ years of Impact

7 Nonclinical Electives
Available for All Graduate Students

Over 50 Clerkship
Sites

OHCE Pathways Team