What are Pathway Programs and Bridges?

Pathway Programs and Bridges (PPB) are premedical and science, technology, engineering, math, and medical (STEMM) programs targeted to students across the educational continuum, from K-12 through undergraduate education and graduate school. They can be one-week summer programs, in-class or after-class school programs, community outreach programs, online or residential programs, post-baccalaureate certificate or master's programs, among others. These programs fulfill a variety of different needs such as, 1) improving access to medical school for diverse applicants, 2) offering premed courses for career changers, 3) providing academic success training to those students who have not been accepted into STEMM programs, and 4) introducing students to STEMM professions.

Who Are We?

The PPB Special Interest Group came out of the AAMC SGEA (Southern Group on Educational Affairs) in an effort to bring together individuals involved in PPB programs to provide a space for the exchange of ideas. It has since grown into a national group.

What is Our Mission?

The mission of the Pathway Programs and Bridges Special Interest Group is to provide a forum in which individuals involved in these PPB programs can share best practices and novel research in these areas. Our goal is to inspire improvements in PPB program development, ultimately benefiting students, STEMM professions, and healthcare. We recognize Pathway and Bridge programs are not new. For years, organizations have been working diligently to empower and guide students in their educational pursuits beginning in K-12 through technical, community college, career, certificate programs, undergraduate and post-baccalaureate education. We also understand the positive impact resulting from the years of local, state, and federally funded initiatives to increase the numbers of students pursuing and persisting in education. We welcome all who are committed to being part of the solution to increase the number of diverse and culturally affirming STEMM professionals for years to come.