Are you considering a career in medicine or healthcare? Pre-college medical programs and internships are a good way to gain hands-on experience, build professional skills, and strengthen your college applications. From medical research to clinical practice, they offer an immersive introduction to the field. Here are eight of the top medical programs for high school students.
Why Summer Programs?
Summer programs offer real benefits, especially in fields like medicine and healthcare. They let you dig deeper into a subject through focused, intensive coursework that goes beyond what school usually covers. They also help you explore career paths, gain hands-on experience, and apply what you’ve learned in practical settings. Just as important, they connect you with peers, professionals, and mentors in your field, and the collaborative environment builds communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The result is a richer experience that can shape your future.
Once you’re done with this list, check out our extended article on the 50 best STEM summer programs for high schoolers.
And here’s a bit of deeper insight into some of the select few programs that Rishab Jain, Harvard student and ISEF top winner, attests to.
Top 8 Med Summer Programs
- Application Deadline: March 15
- Duration: Five weeks
SMYSP is a five-week program for low-income, first-generation high school juniors in Northern California. The tuition-free program provides intensive coursework in medicine and health science alongside professional development workshops. Participants complete a research project on public health disparities and gain insight into the medical profession. The program offers chances to network with health professionals and receive mentoring on college admissions. Each of the 24 participants receives a stipend to support their research project.
“When students attend the Stanford Medical Youth Science Program, not only do they learn and develop as a student, but they are mentored and empowered to begin their path to college and medical careers. We build a cohort of passionate, like-minded peers, who will become the next generation of health leaders.”
SMYSP
- Application Deadline: February 23
- Duration: Two weeks
The Summer Medical Academy at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego gives high school students aged 15-19 a two-week immersion into healthcare. It provides hands-on experience, lectures from medical experts, and networking opportunities. Admission is based on academic achievement, interest in healthcare, and extracurricular involvement. The program costs $3,000, but scholarships are available for eligible students, and priority goes to local students and those affiliated with the hospital. It covers both clinical practice and healthcare administration.
- Application Deadline: February 16
- Duration: Nine weeks (June to August)
The UCSF Summer Student Research Program places high school juniors, seniors, and college undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical research projects. Participants work in clinics and labs, gaining experience in research and clinical practice under the mentorship of healthcare providers and researchers. The program includes workshops, seminars, and networking events. Students receive a stipend ranging from $3,000 to $4,300, making it an accessible opportunity for those interested in medical research.
- Application Deadline: N/A
- Duration: Eight weeks (early June to late July)
The Simon Cancer Center Summer Research Program pairs participants with mentors for 40-hour work weeks on research projects in labs, clinics, or databases. Weekly workshops cover professional development and admissions guidance for graduate and professional programs. It’s aimed at high school seniors and undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds and requires a minimum GPA of 3.2. Participants receive a stipend, though housing and transportation costs are not covered.
- Application Deadline: March 22
- Duration: Five days
This five-day camp at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta gives high school juniors and seniors (aged 16+) a broad understanding of public health. Participants explore topics including data collection, analysis, and health education. Activities include recreated outbreaks, mock press conferences, laboratory sessions, and lectures from CDC scientists. It isn’t focused on medical treatment, but it offers insight into public health careers. The program is free, but participants cover their own housing and transportation.
- Application Deadline: N/A
- Duration: Three weeks
The University of Pennsylvania’s Summer Academies offer three-week, subject-intensive programs focusing on biomedical research, chemistry, physics, or neuroscience. They combine advanced scientific theory with practical, hands-on work. Open to students in grades 9-11, the program offers both residential and online options. Costs start around $9,700, with financial assistance available for select Philadelphia students.
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Duration: Nine days
The National Student Leadership Conference gives high school students a nine-day immersion into medical issues, scientific research, and healthcare challenges. Offered at universities such as American University, Duke, and Yale, it includes clinical rounds, medical examination training, and a public health project. Participants can also enroll in an online college-credit course taught by American University faculty. Costs range from $3,895 to $4,095 depending on location, with scholarships available.
“Experiential programs at 12 prestigious universities including Duke, Yale, and Georgetown. Gain valuable knowledge on how to succeed in your career from professionals in the field.”
NSLC
- Application Deadline: May 1
- Duration: Five days
AIM–High lets high school students immerse themselves in medicine alongside NSU medical students and staff. The program includes interactive sessions and social events for a well-rounded introduction to the field. Offered at NSU’s Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater campuses, it costs $1,600 plus a $40 application fee. Students leave certified in first aid and CPR.
Final Thoughts
Medical programs and internships for high school students are a valuable way to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and prepare for college applications. They cover a range of topics, from biomedical research to clinical practice. Whether you’re interested in research, clinical work, or public health, these programs offer a strong foundation for a future in medicine.
Download a list of 50+ more STEM research programs.
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