June 11-30 or July 16-August 4, 2017

The ever-changing world of medicine is a fast-paced and exciting atmosphere in which to spend the summer. The Pre-Medical Institute is designed to build on students’ strong scientific academic foundation and expose them to topics that they may not otherwise experience before college. We offer the Pre-Medical Institute in both June and July. 

This institute combines traditional undergraduate class and lab curriculum with organized field trips, guest lectures, and hands-on activities in order for students to gain valuable academic and career experience. The institute is divided into morning and afternoon sessions that include assigned readings, daily assignments, and a final project. 

Morning Session

All students attend the same morning general session. Faculty and physicians from the Washington University community visit to share their current research and expert experience in their fields. In addition to physician and faculty lectures, students participate in a number of small-group activities designed to expand students’ scientific knowledge including:

• Anatomy and Physiology Lectures: Explore the structure and function of the human body.
• Biomedical Ethics Case Study Analysis: Examine and discuss current issues confronting the medical community.
• Clinical Skills Sessions: Practice basic medical techniques including taking vital statistics, conducting neurological exams, and completing patient histories.
• Disease Investigations: Research and present findings on the symptoms and treatment of various diseases.

Students will also take a practice MCAT exam and attend a session on writing a personal statement.

Afternoon Session

After lunch, students attend one of four afternoon courses. These courses are designed to give students a more in-depth look into a particular aspect of science or medicine. 

Molecular Biology

Examine the intersection between microbiology and biochemistry. Hands-on labs will teach students about medical diagnostic tests and experiments such as antibiotic resistance and genetic sequencing.

Forensic Science

Using real-life examples from forensic science, this course teaches basic concepts of chemistry, physics, biology, and earth science. Students will learn about DNA, cell structure and other basics of biology when studying evidence.

History of Medicine

Study the contributions of some of the most important figures in the development of medical science and examine how Western and Eastern medicine intersect. Students will explore topics such as the role of the physician, development of modern surgery, the rise of pathology, and improvements to diagnostic techniques and how these topics effect the practice of modern medicine.

Global Health

This course introduces students to important social theories by examining the roles that anthropology, clinical medicine, and public health play in the study of global health.

Research Symposium Project

Working in teams, students create a research symposium project on a topic of their choice that is relevant to the current medical community as discussed in their afternoon course. The project must demonstrate both critical-thinking and undergraduate-level research skills. Projects are presented to Washington University faculty and staff on the final day of the program. 

Program Fees

The 2017 program fee is $5,585 and includes all academic and residential expenses. Scholarship assistance is available to students who demonstrate financial need. See 2017 Institute Program Fees for more information on fees and scholarship assistance.

Eligibility

To be eligible for a High School Summer Institute students should:

• Be a current freshman, sophomore, or junior in high school. 
• Have an academic average of B+ or better.
• As an international student, provide documentation of your ability to complete coursework in English (equivalent of a TOEFL score of 90).

How to Apply

In order to apply to a High School Summer Institute, students must complete an online application, including three short essays, and submit the following supplemental information:

• Transcript
• Teacher Recommendation
• International applicants must send proof of English ability

We review applications on a rolling basis. Once we receive all of the required supplemental information to complete an application, students are notified by mail of the admission decision within 10-12 business days. Qualified applicants are admitted until all spaces in the program are filled.

The application process for the 2017 High School Summer Institutes has closed. Information and applications for 2018 will be available beginning October 1, 2017.