ODI Summer Pre-Matriculation Program (PMP)
ODI Pre-Matriculation Program (PMP)
What is PMP?
Hybrid PMP Dates: TBD
Asynchronous Online PMP Dates: TBD
Every summer, the Urban Health Program 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 – 2:30 PM. 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 – TBD
Mid-Program Session – TBD
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
Applications closed.
If you are interested in learning more about the program or have any questions, please contact Angela Hunt at ahunt13@uic.edu
Program Modules
Academic Modules
| 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. |
Professional Development / Leadership Modules
| 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
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
“I would say that PMP is a great course for anyone who A) doesn’t have a Public Health background in undergrad or professionally, B) want to refresh their academic writing and math skills and C) generally wishes to get a feel for the MPH program during the summer. PMP is a great way to build community, especially if you attend the game nights!”
2025 PMP Participants