The Hawken School Medical Sciences Pathway Program is a four-year pathway designed for Hawken students interested in pursuing future careers in medicine and health professions. The program provides a strong foundation in science, early exposure to healthcare environments, and opportunities to develop professional skills. Students explore medical fields, participate in hands-on learning, and prepare for advanced studies in college and beyond. The program combines classroom instruction with laboratory work, simulation-based learning, and opportunities for research. Students also participate in seminars focused on medical ethics, cultural competency, communication, and the social determinants of health.

Through a blend of coursework, lab experiences, service learning, and career exploration, students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their future in the health sciences and to be competitive for undergraduate pre-medical or science programs.

Note: adjust copy to add mention of focus areas and capstone project

Core Requirements

  • All Required Science Courses/Studios (Physics, Chem, Biology)
  • Biomedical Science Macro (in 10th grade)
  • 6 to 8 Biomed Electives (6=regular, 8=honors)
  • Medical Sciences Semester in UC
    Clinical Rotations
    1 Upper Level Science Macro
  • 2 Biomed Intensives: Hawken MD, Medical Ethics 
  • Research Lab Internship (either via Sci Res II or Sci Res Internship from MSH)
  • Senior Capstone Project + Presentation (subject to proposal + approval)

Pathways to a Medical Sciences Designation 

The Hawken Medical Sciences Pathways Program consists of two distinct paths: Scholars Designation and Pathway Designation. Upon successful completion of the program, the designation will be applied to a student's Hawken School diploma.

This structured program integrates student choice, rigorous science coursework, hands-on clinical exposure, research opportunities, and professional development experiences to ensure graduates are well-rounded, competitive, and more prepared to enter a healthcare or science major in college. 

Medical Scholars Designation:
Minimum Requirements
  • Successful completion of core science courses with a grade of B or higher and at least two elevated (Honors, AP, or Advanced credit) designations
  • X# science courses and X# Medical science electives with a grade of B or higher or Foundational Credits XYZ
  • At least one medically-based Macro
  • Successful completion of the STEMM Program
  • Successful completion and panel defense of an independent, capstone paper equivalent to a publishable manuscript or literature review beyond a course requirement.
  • Hold a leadership role for at least one year in a medically or community-focused extracurricular of Affinity Group (Med club, Red Cross club, WISH, HOSA, Science Olympiad, Activate Minds, Philanthropy Board, etc.)
  • 4 certifications 
  • 80 hours of community service outside of school in an area focusing on improving community health 

Medical Pathways Designation:
Minimum Requirements
  • Successful completion of core science courses with a grade of B or higher and at least one elevated (Honors or AP) designation
  • X# science courses and X# Medical science electives with a grade of B or higher or Foundational Credits XYZ
  • Successful completion of an independent project, internship, or research paper beyond a course requirement.
  • At least one medically-based Macro
  • Active participation for at least one year in a medically-focused extracurricular or Affinity Group (Med club, Red Cross club, WISH, HOSA, Science Olympiad, Active Minds, Philanthropy Board, etc.)
  • 3 certifications
  • 40 hours of community service outside of school in an area focusing on improving community health

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Medical Sciences Pathways Program will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate understanding of core biological and health science concepts needed for college-level study.

  2. Use medical terminology to describe body systems, conditions, and procedures.

  3. Perform foundational laboratory and clinical skills appropriate for high-school training.

  4. Communicate professionally with peers, teachers, and healthcare mentors.

  5. Understand healthcare systems, roles, and career pathways.

  6. Demonstrate ethical behavior, teamwork, and cultural sensitivity in healthcare-related settings.

  7. Complete a capstone project, connecting research, problem-solving, and real-world healthcare issues.

  8. Prepare for post-secondary programs in health sciences, nursing, or pre-medical tracks.