ODI Summer Pre-Matriculation Program (PMP)

What is PMP? Heading link

Hybrid PMP Dates: July 8 – August 2, 2024
Asynchronous Online PMP Dates: July 1 – August 9, 2024

Every summer, the Office of Diversity & Inclusion (ODI) hosts a free Pre-Matriculation Program (PMP) to help admitted students prepare for the academic challenges of our School of Public Health (SPH) graduate master level programs. Students can apply to either a 4-week synchronous program that includes both in-person and virtual components or a 6-week asynchronous option that is completely online.

The goal of PMP is to strengthen the academic, professional and social skills of incoming admitted students as they enter graduate school. The PMP curriculum covers key public health concepts, academic writing, professional/leadership development and quantitative methods. The program includes opportunities for participants to meet public health professionals and alumni, become familiar with campus resources and form relationships with future classmates.

4-week In-person & Synchronous PMP Schedule: 

 Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday (in-person at SPH – 1603 W. Taylor Street) 

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
12:00 – 12:30 PM (Break)
12:30 – 2:30PM

Thursday & Friday (synchronous via zoom) 

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
12:00 – 12:30 PM (Break)
12:30 – 2:00 PM

Students who apply for this version of PMP will be required to engage with faculty, staff and fellow students on weekdays between the hours of 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM from July 8 – August 2, 2024. This will include instruction time, individual and group work, excursions and structured breaks. Please note that additional work outside of this timeframe is expected. Eligible participants will receive a small stipend upon completion of the program. Out of state students may be eligible for further support if admitted to the program. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide stipends to international students, but they are more than welcome and encouraged to apply to the program.

6-week Asynchronous (online) PMP Schedule: 

Orientation Session – July 1, 2024 from 6:30-7:30 PM CST via Zoom

Mid-Program Session – July 22, 2024 from 6:30-7:30 PM CST via Zoom

This version of PMP will take place July 1 – August 9, 2024. As with the synchronous program, students will strengthen their knowledge of public health concepts, quantitative methods, academic writing, and leadership development. Students will have opportunities to connect with faculty, staff and peers, join synchronous students on in-person excursions (non-mandatory) and can direct questions about course content to PMP staff during weekly office hours. Though this version of the program does not require participants to meet at specific times (other than the orientation session and the mid-program session), students are expected to complete weekly assignments as well as a final presentation, which can be the product of individual work or a group project. The time commitment for this program is about 6-8 hours a week. 

Overall Learning Objectives for PMP:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of public health concepts
  • Demonstrate an understanding of core quantitative methods and academic writing
  • Strengthen oral and written communication skills through final presentations and research paper
  • Increase understanding of health disparities and social justice issues
  • Strengthen competency in working in teams

Application Process Heading link

Application has closed.

If you are interested in learning more about the program or have any questions, please contact Cecilia Macias at cmacias2@uic.edu or Angela Hunt at ahunt13@uic.edu

Program Modules Heading link

Orientation to UIC School of Public Health programs & services
Quantitative fundamentals
Academic writing
Research and literature review fundamentals
Research ethics
Overview of public health systems
Applied practice experience information
Guest lectures and field trips related to health disparities, community research, and other topics.
Careers in public health
Resume/portfolio development
Communication skills & electronic etiquette
Mentoring relationships
Leadership & work style assessments
Public speaking and presentation skills
SPH Student Affairs services & activities
Campus tour – SPH buildings, library, UIC ID

PMP Testimonials and Experiences Heading link

If you’re having doubts about what to expect in Graduate school, or don’t have outside support because you’re first Generation, don’t hesitate to apply! This program will gently push you to your potential. After this program, I am excited to start Graduate school. As a first Generation graduate school applicant, and having struggled during undergraduate school, I’m so glad I was able to find the PMP program. (This program should be offered EVERYWHERE) The PMP has helped me get into a habit of education and working together. I have never been with a group of people that genuinely get along and are fighting for the same things. The Iron Oaks event definitely helped solidly our group.

2022 PMP Participant

As someone who was very anxious about starting grad school, the program was a fantastic opportunity to prepare for classes and get a head start. PMP helped me strengthen my academic writing, quantitative, research, and leadership skills which will undoubtedly help me throughout my journey in the public health field. Participating in PMP also made the large city of Chicago feel smaller and more welcoming by allowing me to connect with peers and engage with community organizations.”

2023 PMP Participant

Joining the PMP program has provided me with first-hand experience on what to expect during some portions of the MPH program. It has allowed me to receive an understanding of what I need to work on to be prepared, but it also served as reassurance that not all things are as tough as we make ourselves believe. Though it was a challenge, it was not impossible and the amount of knowledge I’ve received in just a few weeks has been so life changing.

2024 PMP Participant

Program Contacts Heading link