Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway
How the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway Works
The Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway (KAHSP) is a partnership between Bakersfield College, the Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC), Morehouse School of Medicine, and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. This program provides a direct, affordable route for Kern County students to pursue medical careers — starting locally at Bakersfield College, continuing in Atlanta through AUCC and Morehouse School of Medicine, and ultimately returning home for residency. Together, we’re cultivating homegrown physicians and building a healthier future for Kern County.
Step 1
High School Graduates
The Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway (KAHSP) creates a direct pipeline for incoming college students to attend a world-renowned medical school. With limited admission, the KAHSP will develop Kern County’s next generation of medical practitioners.
Step 2
Bakersfield College
Students begin their KAHSP journey at Bakersfield College, where they earn their associate degree. With a qualifying GPA, students have the opportunity to transfer to one of the three AUCC universities, continuing their path toward a bachelor’s degree.
Step 3
Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC)
Transfer-eligible students will apply to Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, or Spelman College. While completing their bachelor’s degree, students will prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply to Morehouse School of Medicine.
Step 4
Morehouse School of Medicine
If accepted to Morehouse School of Medicine, students will complete their first two years of medical study in Atlanta, then transition to Kern County to complete the final two years.
Step 5
Return to Kern
Kern-AUCC Health Scholars will complete the pathway through residency in Kern County, ready to serve as medical professionals in the Central Valley.
Program Requirements
Students in the program must meet the following requirements to maintain KAHSP eligibility:
- Meet with their Pathway Counselor every semester
- Create a Student Education Plan with their Pathway Counselor that includes the recommended and required coursework
- Strive to meet personal goals set by the program and maintain a desirable GPA
Student Benefits
The KAHSP offers students a variety of benefits, including:
- Exploration of medical careers
- Professional development workshops
- Guidance through completion of pathway to medicine
- Access to pre-medical resources
- Support for transfer
- Field trips and conferences
