Medical Physician Preparation (MPP) Academy

A Division of the NAPCA Foundation

We are an early outreach "pre-med and medical/health professional school readiness" program, committed to preparing the next generation of medical doctors (MD's | DO's), health professionals (i.e., Physician Assistants, Nurses, Dentists, EMTs/Paramedics) and scientists for the physician and healthcare workforce.

MPP Academy

Medical Physician Preparation Academy

We are an early outreach "pre-med and medical/health professional school readiness" program, committed to preparing the next generation of medical doctors (MD's | DO's), health professionals (i.e., physician assistants, nurses, dentists) and scientists for the physician and healthcare workforce.

Program Benefits

Student Learning Objectives

  • Our program empowers students with the mindsets and tools, resources and support, and core competencies that a competitive applicant should possess before entering medical school.
  • Students are provided with the academic preparation necessary to ensure they are prepared to complete college-level pre-med coursework to meet medical school admission requirements.
  • Substantive academic instruction in areas specific to the knowledge, skills, and abilities of students entering medical school are provided, with the intent to prepare students to acquire the 15 core competencies that a competitive applicant should possess before entering medical school, as defined by the Association of American Medical Colleges.
  • Pre-medical preparation will increase completion in pre-med math and science gateway college courses with grades that allow students to be more competitive for admission to medical school.
  • Students learn through a systems-based curriculum aligned with clinical experiences.
  • Hands-on clinical experience and simulations developed and taught by medical scientists and practicing physicians.
  • Simulation activities range from the basics of interacting with patients, checking vitals, providing wound care, making incisions, administering injections, to suturing.
  • Social-emotional skills training, with an emphasis on resilience, is included in the MPP curriculum because of its affirmative impacts on empowering students with the mindsets and tools to break through their academic and non-academic barriers, to maintain motivation, and ultimately, to achieve their future career goal of becoming a medical physician.
  • Students will receive a comprehensive textbook (written exclusively for MPP Academy participants) that empowers them with the mindsets, tools, and resources to navigate the career exploration and planning process. Additionally, students will develop a personal strategic action plan (i.e., Pre-Med Roadmap to Medical School) as part of their capstone project.
  • Students in the high school and undergraduate program will travel abroad for one summer during an international study abroad immersive experience.
  • Students will develop a more strategic approach to reading, college-level writing, note-taking, and researching topics for an academic paper in a quicker, more effective, way. Some of the seminar topics include overcoming procrastination, time management, memory and concentration, note-taking, textbook reading, and exam preparation.
  • Students will be paired with a Career Coach that provides mentorship and personalized support for professional and personal development into the field of medicine.
  • Students are surrounded by like-minded peers and encouraged to support each other and share knowledge, tools, and resources.
  • Our program creates a culture of empowerment through the mentorship of professionals and physicians and medical professionals that supports students on their journey to becoming a future doctor.
  • Students receive an in-depth review of the Medical College Admissions Test, commonly used in the Medical School Admissions holistic review admissions process.
  • As part of the career exploration process students participate in medical school tours and visits to local hospitals and clinics to observe the activities of physicians and residents in a variety of specialties.
  • Students will earn: First Aid and CPR Certification, AED & BLS Certification, and HIPAA Compliance Training & Certification.
  • Students are provided with the tools, resources, and hands-on experience to navigate the college admissions process. Students will develop the knowledge to become a competitive college applicant and to be a desirable candidate at “top schools”.
  • Students are provided with the core competencies and resources to navigate the medical school admissions process. Students will develop the knowledge to become a competitive medical school applicant and to be a desirable candidate at “top schools”
  • Students are supported through the college financial aid process, and additional options available to finance an undergraduate education. This is meant to simplify the complex college financial aid process and reduce the stress and anxiety of paying for college.
  • Students gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to navigate the complex medical school financial aid process with greater confidence, reduced stress and anxiety.
  • Students will experience college life while they live and learn on a college campus. Students will meet new friends from around the world, establish a sense of community, and are provided with the opportunity for academic and personal growth in a safe and secure college environment.
  • Students will learn about the social, economical, and environmental factors that affect the health of patients and populations in a healthcare system outside of the USA.
  • MPP students will develop a service-oriented mindset, engaging in community service learning projects and will experience cultures domestically, as well as internationally. In addition to academic coursework and career exploration experiences, students will participate in a variety of fun indoor and outdoor activities creating an unforgettable summer experience.
  • Students will live on-campus and attend classes within a safe and secure college environment to experience what it will be like as a college student. Students will live in on-campus dorms to learn about residential life.
  • Students will develop new friendships while experiencing college life, exploring and experiencing different career paths in the field of medicine, and developing the mindset and skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.
  • Students will gain valuable insight on future careers and learn strategies on how to achieve their education and career goals from guest speakers from various industries.
  • Students meet with current college students who will share age-appropriate college life experiences and provide recommendations on how to start preparing for college as a college-bound student.
  • Students participate in behind-the-scenes virtual career simulations to get a taste of what a future career might be like.
  • Students experience exclusive career tours to get a taste of what a future career might be like and build connections with professionals from different career fields to help them gain insight into their future careers.
  • Students will discover how to speak confidently and persuasively to both large audiences and small groups.

AYP Program Fast Facts

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Next Start Date

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Winter Cohort 2024:
Priority Admissions Deadline

Session I: December 1
Session II: January 15

Term Start Dates
Session I. Saturday, January 20 – March 23, 2024
MPP students enrolled in Fall 2023 Session I and II should attend Session I for the Winter 2024 Term.
Session II. Saturday, February 10 – April 6, 2024

Classes start every 10 weeks.

Apply Now

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Spring Cohort 2024:
Priority Admissions Deadline

February 1

Term Start Dates
Session I. Saturday, April 13 – June 15, 2024

Classes start every 10 weeks.

Apply Now

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Summer Cohort 2024:
Priority Admissions Deadline

May 1

Term Start Dates
Session I. Saturday, June 22 – August 10, 2024

Classes start every 10 weeks.

Apply Now

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PROGRAM DURATION:

Year-round, Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer Terms MPP students learn new medical knowledge and engage in different hands-on clinical skills each term of the year.

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FORMAT & SCHEDULE:
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EXPERT FACULTY:

Each course in MPP’s AYP program is team-taught by practicing physicians, medical school faculty and medical professionals, providing an integrative perspective on medicine and healthcare.

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College & Career Guidance and Support

Your success is our success. Students gain access to MPP’s career preparation, college counseling,
and academic advising services from day one, including the following:

MPP Academy Admitted student 2024
One-on-One College and Career Advising
Résumé and Cover Letter Reviews
Interview Preparation
Career Coaching
Medical School Advising and Preparation

Become the Medical Professional or Doctor that You Want Taking Care of Your Family

MPP Learning Experience

What can you expect when you're attending the MPP Academic Year Program?

During each academic term, you’ll take part in dynamic “pre-med and medical school readiness” lectures, discussions, and hands-on clinical skill sessions led by our distinguished faculty virtually via Zoom.
You will continue the conversation with your fellow MPP students in your learning team, medical specialty student interest group, over meals, and in other social settings.

Simply put, the case method learning approach is a discussion of real-life medical illnesses.

To enhance your learning, you will be part of a small peer discussion group, which enables you to gain a better understanding of the case materials, test new ideas before class, and broaden your perspectives. It’s the perfect opportunity for both teaching and learning.

Gaining clinical experience is a fundamental part of a student’s medical school application because it proves to medical schools and health professional schools that the applicant has been exposed to the medical field and is confident that they want a career in this type of setting.

When medical school admissions teams highlight clinical experience as a core requirement, they’re doing more than simply checking a box. If a student has firsthand experience in a clinical setting, it tells the admissions committee several things about an applicant:

  • They know what they’re getting into by pursuing medicine
  • They’ve begun to develop skills related to direct patient care and the treatment of people from diverse backgrounds
  • They’re prepared to navigate hospital and clinical environments as part of a dynamic medical team
  • They’re committed to the process of becoming a licensed physician

Gateway to a career in effective clinical research starts here

MPP provides students with a faculty advisor that mentors and supervises their clinical research experience. The overarching goal of the clinical research experience is to equip the next generation of medical professionals and scientists with the skill sets essential to evaluating evidence, understanding biostatistics and epidemiology, and producing high quality clinical research. We aim to ensure that MPP students develop a strong foundation in the design, implementation, analysis and interpretation of clinical research studies.

Once the program begins, you may be assigned to be the leader of your discussion group. In this role, you will facilitate the discussion, help the group remain focused on the questions at hand, and ensure every member shares their unique viewpoints.

  • Anesthesiology
  • Cardiology
  • Clinical Ultrasound
  • Dermatology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Family Medicine
  • Gastroenterology
  • Genetics
  • Geriatrics
  • Integrative Health
  • Internal Medicine
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Med-Peds
  • Neurology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Ob/Gyn
  • Ophthalmology
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Otolaryngology
  • Pathology
  • Pediatrics
  • Plastic Surgery
  • Psychiatry
  • Radiology
  • Oncology
  • Sports Medicine
  • Surgery
  • Urology
  • Vascular Surgery

MPP Virtual Experience

The pandemic has forced individuals and organizations to adapt quickly to new ways of doing business, new ways of leading, and new ways of learning. At Harvard Business School we’ve leveraged technology to enhance virtual leadership programs with the types of interactivity and connectivity formerly reserved for in-person engagements.

MPP Academy’s AYP program is facilitated in Zoom.

In order to participate in a Zoom session, we recommend that you use the Zoom Client for Meetings. To download the Zoom Client for Meetings, please follow the instructions found at https://zoom.us/download or follow instructions via your web browser when you follow the link for your first session. Additional Zoom instructions and guidance will be provided to participants in advance of the program start date.

Prior to the start of the program, admitted participants will receive an email with a link to the Learning Community where you will find preliminary program information, including the program schedule, case readings, and assignments. The Learning Community also contains information regarding access to the virtual classroom.

Participation in our programs requires that you have a computer or laptop with a video camera and audio access. A headset microphone will deliver the best sound quality. If you do not have a headset, please be sure to wear headphones or sit in close proximity to the computer microphone. While a wireless internet connection can be most convenient, a wired network connection is recommended for the best virtual experience. Cellular networks are generally not encouraged. Please close all other browsers or applications during sessions in order to be fully immersed in the learning experience.

Our Learning Community is best supported by Google Chrome, Safari and Firefox. The HBS Live Online Classrooms are only supported by Google Chrome at this time. To access these classrooms, it is recommended that participants download the latest version of Google Chrome before attending any sessions.

Laptops or desktop computers are also recommended for the best virtual learning experience. At this time, tablets and mobile devices are not supported by the HBS Live Online Classroom, nor do they support all of Zoom’s functionalities.

For any technical assistance related to the Learning Community or accessing the Zoom platform, our Technology Support Services (TSS) team is available to assist you.

You may contact them at ithelp@hbs.edu or by calling +1.617.495.6600.

The TSS team is available

  • Monday – Thursday 7:00am – 9:00pm ET,
  • Friday 7:00am – 6:00pm ET,
  • Sunday 12:00pm – 9:00pm ET.

TSS is not available on Saturdays.

The Value of MPP

MPP provides students with a supportive environment to explore their specific interests within the medical field.

MPP integrates our core pre-med and medical school readiness curriculum with a spectrum of hands-on learning opportunities so that our students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to the real world, in real time. Learning by doing prepares MPP graduates to be immediately ready to thrive and excel in the workplace.

In the process, our students learn more about themselves, the dynamics of teams, and prepare for a future career in medicine and healthcare.

Our world-class faculty (Practicing Physicians, Medical School Professors, and Medical Professionals) will inform, inspire, and challenge you as you prepare for a future career in medicine and healthcare.

Drawing on extensive research and real-world experience, these experts will disrupt your way of thinking and empower you to implement innovative ideas.

Through the connected power of state-of-the-art videoconferencing technology, work and study with your learning team, while connecting to classmates from across the globe.

Throughout the program, you will have the opportunity to meet your fellow classmates and university professors by attending four intensive class sessions at one of our University campus locations.

To enhance your learning, you will be part of a small peer discussion group, which enables you to gain a better understanding of the case materials, test new ideas before class, and broaden your perspectives. It’s the perfect opportunity for both teaching and learning.

Designed around a collaborative learning model, our program encourages interaction with peers in your cohort. You will collaborate, learn, and socialize with your learning group members, who come from different places around the world.

Once the program begins, you may be assigned to be the leader of your discussion group. In this role, you will facilitate the discussion, help the group remain focused on the questions at hand, and ensure every member shares their unique viewpoints.

Our Medical Specialty Student Interest Groups at MPP allow students to get a better understanding of all the different opportunities offered in the field of anesthesiology. We also offer opportunities for shadowing, research, and workshops in the field of anesthesiology.

Participants apply what they’ve learned. Many take on higher levels of leadership, launch new products and ventures, and implement operational improvements.

Our faculty and leadership are constantly innovating and building curriculum to enable students to succeed in the dynamic and fluid world of today and tomorrow.

We treat our students like family. We value your voice and suggestions. Our program will continue to grow and get better day by day because we are truly committed to making MPP the best place for students to learn and thrive.

MPP By the Numbers

30

Campuses

We host our programs at some of America’s most prestigious Universities

10:1

Student-Staff Ratio

Students work closely with their program staff and instructors in an interactive learning environment

10

Countries

Students from several countries attend our summer and year-round programs

40%

Percentage of NAPCA staff members who attended our programs when they were in high school.

Over

$2,000,000

in Scholarships

Awarded annually to MPP/NAPCA Alumni and students.

2010

The year we launched our first college and career-focused program at the University of Southern California.

Impact

College Acceptances & Matriculations

We are proud to share that 100% of MPP Academy graduates go on to college immediately after graduation, many to some of the most prestigious institutions in the country. Each year, many MPP Academy students are recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program and earn significant scholarships to colleges and universities.

SHORT TERM OUTCOMES

The short-term outcomes reflect the knowledge, skills, and attitudes we expect students to acquire after they graduate from our high school program.

PRE-MED ACADEMIC READINESS

Are scholars learning PRE-MED content knowledge that is necessary to succeed in college level pre-medical coursework which is also required for admission to medical school?

Pre-Med Foundation Knowledge

  • % of scholars demonstrated significant growth in the PRE-MED Academic Readiness assessment.

College Readiness in Science

  • % of scholars demonstrated an increase in Biology assessment scores over the course of the program.
  • % of scholars demonstrated an increase in Chemistry assessment scores over the course of the program.
  • % of scholars demonstrated an increase in Physics assessment scores over the course of the program.
  • % of scholars demonstrated a statistically significant increase in Pre-Med Science Readiness Assessment (covers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) scores from pre- to post-­MPP.

College Readiness in Mathematics

  • % of scholars demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the Pre-Med Mathematics Readiness Assessment (covers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) scores from pre- to post-­MPP.
  • % of scholars demonstrated an increase in Pre-Algebra assessment scores over the course of the program.
  • % of scholars demonstrated a statistically significant increase in Algebra 1 assessment scores from pre- to post-­MPP.
  • % of scholars demonstrated an increase in Algebra II assessment scores over the course of the program.
  • % of scholars demonstrated a statistically significant increase in Calculus assessment scores from pre- to post-­MPP.

College Writing Readiness

  • % of scholars demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the College Writing Readiness Assessment scores from pre- to post-­MPP.

PRE-MED ATTITUDES & ASPIRATIONS

Does scholar engagement in PRE-MED readiness courses increase their interest in pursuing PRE-MED in college?
  • % of scholars plan or committed to declare an academic major in a STEM field in college.
  • % of scholars plan or committed to enroll and complete a pre-medicine program at a four-year university that provides them with all the required pre-med courses needed to apply for medical school.

Does scholar engagement in PRE-MED courses increase their interest in pursuing a career in medicine.
  • % of scholars committed to pursue a career path in medicine and healthcare.

  • % of scholars plan to apply to medical school to pursue a career in medicine.

ACCESS TO ROLE MODELS, NEW FRIENDSHIPS, AND A PEER NETWORK OF SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT

Are scholars developing supportive peer and adult networks to guide and support their path to becoming a medical doctor?
  • % of scholars indicated that they have established professional relationships with medical physicians and other healthcare professionals who have impacted their future college and career goals. STO, MTO
  • % of scholars reported feeling part of a community of students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine and healthcare. STO, MTO
  • % of scholars reported that the new friendships they gained from attending the program provided a peer network of support and encouragement. STO, MTO

Do scholars feel like they belong in and can succeed in the field of medicine as a medical doctor?
  • % of scholars reported that they believe in themselves to achieve the goal of becoming a medical doctor.

COLLEGE READINESS

College Admissions Knowledge

  • % of scholars have the knowledge to apply to college as demonstrated by the college admissions knowledge assessment.

College Entrance Exam Completion

  • % of scholars reported that they feel prepared to perform well on college entrance exams.
  • % of scholars have registered and taken the SAT or ACT college entrance exams at substantially higher rates in comparison with non-participating peers.

Financial Aid Knowledge

  • % of scholars have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at substantially higher rates in comparison with non-participating peers.
  • % of scholars have the knowledge to apply for financial aid as demonstrated by the financial aid knowledge assessment.
  • % of scholars have knowledge about student loans and how to apply for them as demonstrated by the financial aid knowledge assessment.
  • % of scholars became more confident in their ability to obtain financial aid to finance their college education (__% to 100%).

UC/CSU A-G Subject Knowledge

  • % of scholars completed the UC/CSU A-G college preparatory coursework required for admission to a 4 year college or university with a grade of B or better.
    • In comparison, 34% of all California high school graduates complete “a-g” coursework with a grade of C or better.

College Matriculation

  • % of scholars enrolled in a four year college or university.
College Readiness:

MPP/NAPCA students are better prepared for college than non-NAPCA students at specific schools served by NAPCA, surpassing students when it comes to “a-g” coursework and entrance exam completion, four-year college eligibility, college enrollment, college persistence, and college completion.

Coursework:

MPP/NAPCA students are three times more likely to complete the “a-g” courses required for college admission than their non-NAPCA counterparts: 91% compared to 30%.

College Enrollment:

98% of MPP/NAPCA students attend college the first year after high school graduation.

College Success:

The college persistence rates of MPP/NAPCA alumni are equal to or better than their campus counterparts who did not participate in NAPCA.

100%

of scholars plan to major in a STEM field in college.

100%

of scholars demonstrated significant growth in at least one core subject assessment.

92%

of scholars when thinking about a career in STEM, see themselves fitting in well.

Medical Physician Preparation (MPP) Academy

100%

Academic Preparation for Pre-Med University Coursework

of MPP scholars are better prepared to thrive in Pre-Med university coursework than non-MPP students at specific schools served by MPP, surpassing students when it comes to college readiness in mathematics and science.

Medical Physician Preparation (MPP) Academy 723x481

100%

of MPP scholars are three times more likely to complete the “a-g” courses required for college admission than their non-MPP counterparts: 100% compared to 33% on a national level.

Medical Physician Preparation (MPP) Academy 723x481

100%

of MPP scholars attend a four-year college or university, the first year after high school graduation.

Intention to Major in STEM

National: 45%
MPP: 100%

Bachelor's Degree Completion in STEM

National: 34%
MPP: 82%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Professors are here to push everyone to learn, but not to embarrass anyone. If the class is quiet, they’ll often ask a participant with experience in the industry in which the case is set to speak first. This is done well in advance so that person can come to class prepared to share. Trust the process. The more open you are, the more willing you’ll be to engage, and the more alive the classroom will become.

STATEMENT OF ACCREDITATION