Training future physicians for underserved communities
A pathway within the UC Santa Cruz Premed Postbacc Program, designed to support academic enhancer students from diverse backgrounds who are committed to serving medically underserved communities.
Our mission
To provide comprehensive medical school preparation for students from underrepresented backgrounds and create a network of compassionate, skilled, and culturally responsive physicians dedicated to returning to their communities and advancing health equity across California¡¯s underserved regions.
Our vision
To increase the number of physicians practicing in medically underserved areas of California.
Program overview
Located at the °®¶¹´«Ã½ MBEST Center in Marina, CA we identify, mentor, and train students with the tools needed to succeed in medical school and beyond.
Start: Summer
Format: Hybrid format with in-person sessions
Location: °®¶¹´«Ã½ MBEST Center, Marina, CA and online
Duration: 12 months
Academic components
Beyond the classroom
Who should apply?
The Central Coast Cohort Program is designed for academic enhancers from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds in the Central Coast of California who are committed to serving their communities.
Ideal candidates
- Bachelor's degree holders
Students who have completed a bachelor's degree and most or all medical school prerequisites.
- Local community investment
Students with family, cultural, and linguistic connection to agricultural and rural regions of the Central Coast.
- Commitment to service
Students dedicated to practicing medicine in medically underserved communities.
- 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.
- Financial support
Access to scholarship opportunities to help offset tuition costs.
- Community network
Connection to a supportive network of peers and professionals with similar goals and experiences.
Our commitment to diversity
We are dedicated to increasing the number of physicians from diverse backgrounds practicing in medically underserved communities. Our program specifically addresses barriers faced by students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, providing the resources and guidance necessary to succeed.
Ready to take the next step?
Join the Central Coast Cohort and begin your journey toward becoming a physician who makes a difference in medically underserved communities.