High School Pathway’s for Tomorrow’s Workforce

We are a leader in healthcare workforce development. As a student learner at OU Health, you benefit from the education and opportunities that only an academic health system can provide. As Oklahoma’s only comprehensive academic health system, and with OU Health’s academic partner, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, students can grow into the next generation workforce and learn in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings, including student practicums, internships and residencies and more.

OU Health is committed to investing in future healthcare professionals and leaders, providing students at all levels with the necessary skills, education and experience to succeed. When you choose to learn and grow at OU Health, you do so alongside professionals who are experts in their field and whose mission is to improve the lives through healing and discovery.

Student Shadowing Experience

A hands-off experience with clinical and/or non-clinical staff and not for course credit. The student shadowing experience is only eligible for up to seven consecutive calendar days per academic semester. The Volunteen Program is an addition volunteering opportunity for enrolled high school students 14-18 years of age and interested in a career in healthcare.

Healthcare Career Explorers

The Healthcare Career Explorer position offers a unique and exciting opportunity to students currently enrolled in high school interested in investigating or pursuing a career in healthcare. Healthcare Career Explorers are placed in a career stream within OU Health to gain first-hand experience with an inpatient, outpatient and/or ambulatory setting. Explorers interact with patients, healthcare staff and professionals across multiple disciplines to gain valuable insight and skills, qualifying them to transfer into a permanent role at OU Health upon graduation of high school.

• Gain exposure to different aspects of healthcare delivery, administration and patient care.
• Learn and use effective communication skills and empathy in a healthcare setting.
• Connect with healthcare professionals in a variety of clinical and non-clinical specialties.
• Learn about strategic decision-making, team collaboration and organizational leadership.
• Develop skills necessary for securing pivotal positions in the healthcare industry.

Applications for 2024 are now closed, please check back for opportunities for 2025.

Download the Interest Form