SHPEP convened its last cohort in the Summer of 2026 after 38 years of supporting students pursuing health professions careers. After many years of support for SHPEP, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), the program's founding partner and core funder, decided to sunset the initiative following careful deliberation and research. The Foundation is now directing its efforts toward strategies aimed at dismantling structural racism in the health sector at the institutional level. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), and RWJF proudly recognize the program’s lasting impact and thousands of students, alumni, organizational partners, and institutional leaders who contributed to its legacy. This website has been preserved as an archival resource to celebrate SHPEP’s history, outcomes, impact, and contributions to the health professions. Learn more about the program’s conclusion in our FAQs.
For 19 years the National Believe, Build, Complete, Become Summit has been the national leader in advancing access, excellence and college completion among students in higher education. This Summit provides an avenue for students in higher education to network with accomplished professionals and learn about programs geared towards helping them reach their educational goals.
The SHPEP application will close on February 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Admission decisions will be released on March 15, 2026, via your application dashboard. Don’t wait—submit your application today!
Join us for SHPEP/MSIPI Office Hours—an informal, informational session designed to help you learn more about the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) and the Minority Serving Institution Pathway Initiative (MSIPI).
Join us for SHPEP/MSIPI Office Hours—an informal, informational session designed to help you learn more about the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) and the Minority Serving Institution Pathway Initiative (MSIPI). These sessions are live and interactive, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, hear from SHPEP Ambassadors, and gain insider tips—think of it as a radio talk show where you're part of the conversation!
Join us for Discover MSIPI: Health Profession Pathways at Albany State University and Portland State University, an informative session highlighting the unique opportunities available through the Minority Serving Institution Pathway Initiative (MSIPI). Designed as a specialized five-week summer enrichment experience, MSIPI is integrated into the SHPEP application process and is a free program created to support and empower students pursuing careers in the health professions.