NU Docs

NU Docs is a 10-month pathway program that offers Northwestern University undergraduates an immersive introduction to careers in medicine and the life sciences. Offered by the Feinberg School of Medicine’s Office of Health Equity Northwestern University Health Professions Advising and Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences, NU Docs supports Feinberg’s commitment to preparing students to become excellent, patient-centered physicians through structured exposure and mentorship.

The program begins with a required Spring Break Immersion Week on the Chicago campus (March 23–27, 2026). During this week, students participate in admissions advising, resident and medical student panels, faculty specialty talks, anatomy lab exposure, and clinical shadowing—providing a firsthand look into the daily life of a physician.

From April 2026 through February 2027, students continue with clinical shadowing, Immersion in Medicine virtual sessions, and hands-on clinical specialty days that offer deeper insight into medical practice. Through this sustained mentorship, NU Docs identifies promising future physicians early and equips them with the support needed to thrive in medical school.

Learn How NUDOCS Is Shaping Future Leaders

Apply to NU Docs

Applications for the 2026 NU Docs cohort are now open!

Deadline: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CST.

Eligibility

  • Northwestern undergraduate in good academic standing

  • Sophomore or junior standing

  • Able to attend all days of the Spring Break Immersion Week (March 23–27, 2026)

  • May only participate in NU Docs once

Key Dates

  • Application deadline: Tuesday, January 6, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. CST

  • NU Docs Connect (for selected applicants): February 11, 2026

Time Commitment (Approximate)

  • Spring Break Immersion Week (required): 35 hours

  • Clinical Shadowing: 10 hours (strongly encouraged)

  • Specialty Days: 10–15 hours (strongly encouraged)

  • Immersion in Medicine virtual sessions: 2–5 hours (strongly encouraged)

Application Essays (200-word limit each)

  1. Describe your pre-Northwestern academic experience and how it has shaped your readiness for the curriculum.

  2. How will the NU Docs program help you prepare for the transition to medical school? What knowledge, skills, or experiences do you hope to gain?

  3. What experiences have inspired your interest in medicine, and how do you envision a career as a physician allowing you to positively impact your life and the communities you belong to?

 

If you have any questions about NU Docs, please contact the Office of Health Equity at feinberghealthequity@northwestern.edu.