Pathway Programs

The Early Medical School Selection Program (EMSSP) offers an enriched educational experience through a carefully structured program that includes mentorship, academic advising, and professional development. Participants begin their preparation during undergraduate studies and transition to BU’s medical school curriculum as early as the summer after their junior year. Students take courses at Boston University and participate in clinical exposure, research opportunities, and seminars to strengthen their academic foundation and understanding of medical practice. Recruitment for this program has been paused until further notice.

Partner Schools

The partner schools for the Early Medical School Selection Program are as follows:

• Chaminade University
• Clark-Atlanta University         
• Dillard University                          
• Hampton University                        
• Morehouse College                          
• Morgan State University                  
• North Carolina Central University  
• Spelman College
• Tougaloo College
• University of Texas at El Paso
• University of the Incarnate Word
• University of the Virgin Islands
• Virginia Union University

If you are a student at, or plan to attend, one of our partner institutions, we invite you to apply. Please visit the MD Admissions page to learn more.

The American Heart Association Supporting Undergraduate Research Experiences (AHA SURE) is a 10-week mentored research experience focused on cardiovascular and brain research. The program offers hands-on research opportunities in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health to underrepresented undergraduate students. This initiative fosters mentorship, professional development, and academic growth while promoting diversity and inclusion in medical research. Participants engage in a transformative summer experience, gaining critical skills and insights into the fields of biomedical science and public health.

The STARS (Summer Training as Research Scholars) Program at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine is a premier summer research initiative designed to provide undergraduate students with hands-on research experience in the biomedical sciences. Over 10 weeks, participants engage in mentored research projects, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities to prepare them for advanced studies and careers in STEM fields. The program fosters a supportive environment for future leaders in science and medicine.

The Summer Program in Neuroscience (SPIN) at Boston University offers an immersive eight-week experience at the School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center. It offers students a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of neuroscience and its intersection with medicine.

The program combines clinical exposure, didactic sessions, and mentored research to deepen participants’ understanding of neuroscience and biomedical science. SPIN is designed to nurture research skills and career aspirations, equipping students with the knowledge and experience to pursue advanced biomedical research or medicine careers. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the program serves as a platform for participants to gain hands-on research experience and explore the complexities of the brain in relation to medical science.

The Addiction Medicine Clinical Research Training Program (CARE) at Boston University is dedicated to advancing knowledge and practice in addiction medicine through a comprehensive approach. The program conducts cutting-edge research, educates healthcare professionals, provides high-quality healthcare, and informs clinical and public health practices and policies.

CARE aims to improve the lives of individuals affected by unhealthy alcohol and drug use by integrating research and education into actionable solutions. Through its interdisciplinary initiatives, CARE engages participants in research and training opportunities that prepare them for impactful careers in clinical practice, public health, and addiction medicine. CARE bridges the gap between research, education, and policy to promote better outcomes for individuals and communities.

The Physician Researchers in Training (PRiT) program allows students to gain experience in research design, subject interviewing, data collection, data entry, data analysis, and/or data presentation through a research project. Students will acquire clinical exposure in harm reduction, screening, diagnosing, and treating patients with drug and alcohol problems through multiple observer experiences, including a methadone maintenance clinic, office-based opioid treatment with a buprenorphine program, and an inpatient addiction consult service.

The BU-BMC Summer Science Scholars Program introduces local high school students to the exciting world of scientific research through a week-long immersive experience in research labs at Boston University and Boston Medical Center.

Participants explore various aspects of scientific inquiry and gain hands-on experience working alongside researchers in state-of-the-art facilities. The program aims to inspire the next generation of scientists by providing students with a unique opportunity to engage in the research process and learn about potential careers in science and medicine. This initiative fosters curiosity, builds foundational knowledge, and promotes interest in STEM fields among high school students from the local community.

The ACCESS Granted Program (Advancing Career & Community Equity in STEMM [Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine]) Granted Program through the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine is a comprehensive initiative designed to optimize educational and career outcomes in STEMM for students in the greater Boston region, particularly those from backgrounds with numerically limited participation in these fields. Through strategic collaborations, applied learning experiences, and sustained mentorship, the program advances community engagement and academic opportunity by providing early exposure and structured support in STEMM career pathways.