Reimagining the road to medicine
A pathway within UC Santa Cruz’s Premed Postbacc Program, designed to support non-traditional students (career changers) and academic enhancers nationwide.
Cohorts start each winter and summer.
Apply today!
Our mission
To provide comprehensive medical school preparation for students from both traditional and non-traditional backgrounds and create a network of compassionate, skilled, and culturally responsive physicians dedicated to advancing health equity.
Our vision
A future of highly effective, diverse, and compassionate physicians delivering equitable and culturally responsive healthcare.
Program overview
Located at the Silicon Valley Campus of University of California, Santa Cruz, we identify, mentor, and train students with the tools needed to succeed in medical school and beyond.
Start: Winter and summer
Format: Hybrid format with in-person sessions; fully online option available for out-of-area and international students
Location: UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus in Santa Clara, CA
Duration: 12-24+ months
Academic components
Beyond the classroom
Who should apply?
The Silicon Valley Cohort Program is designed for non-traditional students and academic enhancers.
International students
Through partnerships with accredited Caribbean medical schools, qualified students gain guaranteed MD interview and admission opportunities—expanding access for international students and career changers.
Ideal candidates
- Bachelor's degree holders
Students who have completed a bachelor's degree.
- Career changers | Non-traditional students
Students who may need to complete medical school prerequisites while preparing for the MCAT and strengthening their medical school application.
- Academic enhancers
Students seeking to strengthen their GPA, improve MCAT scores, and enhance their medical school application.
Program benefits
Through our comprehensive support system, participants benefit from:
- Academic enhancement
Structured coursework to improve GPA and strengthen science foundation.
- Dedicated mentorship
Personalized guidance from experienced advisors and medical professionals.
- Community network
Connection to a supportive network of peers and professionals with similar goals and experiences.
Our commitment to diversity
We are committed to increasing diversity and supporting a range of students, including career changers, non-traditional students, and academic enhancers, who bring diversity in experience, age, identity, and background.
Ready to take the next step?
Join the Silicon Valley Cohort and begin your journey toward becoming a physician who makes a difference.