Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) Pathways Program

The primary goal of the Southwest PA AHEC’s HCOP Pathways Program is to support students from K-12 education who have limited funds or academic preparation in the pursuit of healthcare careers through mentorship, personal and academic advising, financial support resources, and exposure to health professions and community partnerships.

Healthcare is predicted to continue to be one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. This growth reflects the demand for healthcare workers to address the needs of an aging population. As a result, rewarding career opportunities will continue to be available in multiple health care settings.

The recruitment and educational preparation of Middle School and High School students is necessary in creating the workforce that will be needed to provide future services.

PA AHEC Search academy

A virtual career exploration program for high school students interested in healthcare. Students get the chance to interact with professionals working in a variety of settings across the state and learn about different career paths. All presentations include hands-on activities such as suturing, dental activities, and a scavenger hunt. Parent/guardian permission is required to receive materials.

summer health career academy

Southwest Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center (AHEC) holds an annual Summer Health Career Academy.  The academy is designed for current ninth and tenth grade students who are interested in learning about opportunities in various health careers and the academic preparation necessary for these careers. Students meet with and talk to practicing health care professionals, engage in health career activities, learn to monitor vital signs, engage in hands on medical procedures, learn basic medical terminology, and receive training in leadership skills.  

Applications are accepted from ninth and tenth grade students who reside in the seven southwestern Pennsylvania counties (Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland).

Have you already participated in the Career Academy and want to return as a Mentor? Connect here to apply!

princeton review sat/act prep course

Pennsylvania AHEC is offering a discount on the Princeton Review year-long SAT & ACT Self-Paced Prep Course to eligible high school students. The course is originally offered for $299, but through a partnership with AHEC, students will be able to access the course for $100.

Scholarships are available to eligible students. Please contact Lynne Williams at lwilliams@southwestahec.org to learn more.