This program is for high school students interested in pursuing a career in medicine or medical research. The MGH IHP Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program, offered by the MGH IHP Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research, gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in healthcare and medical research, learn from MGH IHP faculty, Harvard Medical School instructors, and earn a prestigious certificate to enhance college applications.

Seats Available: 25

Application Deadline: Rolling (payment due upon acceptance)
Time to Complete: 2 weeks
Format: Onsite
2026 Program Dates: July 20-31 & Aug 3-14

Designed for motivated and high-achieving students, this exclusive program provides an opportunity to engage with world-renowned medical professionals from the MGH IHP and instructors from Harvard Medical School. With only 25 seats available, the program offers unparalleled access to medical education and career guidance.

Sample Schedule (subject to change):

Week 1:

Day 1: Introduction to Anatomy & Physiolog
Day 2: Emergency Room Skills
Day 3: Life-Threatening Emergencies
Day 4: Cardiac Arrest Response & CPR Certification
Day 5: Research Skills & Wilderness Medicine

 

Week 2:

Day 6: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Day 7: Pediatrics
Day 8: Introduction to Surgery
Day 9: Neurology – Stroke Focus
Day 10: Neurology – Seizure Management & Research Presentations

Program Cost: $4,500 per student
Optional College Credit: Add $540 to earn 1 college credits

Students may request college credit at the time of registration. Additional forms and academic requirements may apply.

 

Applications for the MGH IHP Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program are now open. 


Apply 


Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
The payment process will be shared upon acceptance into the program. 
 

students work on a torso with EMS personnel

Explore the World of Medicine

Gain hands-on experience in surgery, emergency care, cardiology, and more, while learning critical life skills for future success in healthcare.

students wrap another student's arm in a splint

Interactive Learning & Fun

Engage in immersive simulations, creative problem-solving activities, and collaborative research projects that make learning medicine exciting and accessible.

nursing students at a computer in a hospital hallway

Future Healthcare Leaders Start Here

Develop essential skills, explore medical specialties, and build a strong foundation for a career in healthcare through this innovative two-week program.

Gloved hands work on a manikin that shows the anatomy of the abdominal area
High school students had access to interactive simulation manikins during the Aspiring Physician and Medical Scientist Summer Program.
News

High School Students Have Hands-on Summer Experience

Read Article

Faculty

Janice C. Palaganas, PhD, RN, NP, ANEF, FNAP, FAAN, FSSH

Founding Director, Center of Excellence in Healthcare Simulation Research Principal Investigator, REBEL Lab Professor, Health Professions Education