Ignite Your Health Care Career Path
Mini Medical School at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences offers high school and college students hands-on insight into the world of health care. This free program, held every Tuesday evening in February*, lets you work alongside DMU faculty and students to solve real-life medical challenges.
Join us on campus for four 90-minute sessions and explore how doctors evaluate symptoms and understand the causes, management and prevention of various conditions. Through guided mentorship, you’ll tackle real-life case scenarios, just like a doctor would.
Mini Medical School sessions are designed to help young people discover careers in medicine. Plan to attend and start thinking like a health care professional!
Mark Your Calendar
Save the dates for our 2026 Mini Medical School!
-
Tuesdays in February
-
6-7:30 p.m.
-
DMU’s Campus
All sessions are held on DMU’s campus at 8025 Grand Ave., in West Des Moines.
2026 Mini Medical School Tracks
What to Expect
Year 1: Mini Medical School Foundations
Tuesday, Feb. 3: Intro to Medical Thinking
- Learn how health care professionals use clinical reasoning to diagnose and treat patients.
- Engage in a group activity where you’ll analyze a patient’s symptoms.
- Meet your DMU student mentor, who will assist you throughout the program.
Tuesday, Feb. 10: The Science Behind Symptoms
Tuesday, Feb. 17: Advanced Medical Science
Tuesday, Feb. 24: Clinical Case Presentations
Year 2: Mini Medical School Health Professions Lab
Completion of the Year 1 track is required before attending Year 2.
Tuesday, Feb. 3: Intro to Physical & Occupational Therapy
- Learn how physical and occupational therapists help patients regain movement, independence and quality of life.
Tuesday, Feb. 10: Focus on Foot and Ankle Surgery
Tuesday, Feb. 17: Physical Diagnosis
Tuesday, Feb. 24: Ultrasound and Celebration
Who Should Attend?
Is Mini Medical School Right for You?
This free program is ideal for high school and college students curious about careers in health care. Whether you’re just starting to explore medical careers or you’re looking to deepen your understanding of medical sciences, DMU’s Mini Medical School will offer you insights and hands-on experience at our campus on 8025 Grand Ave. in West Des Moines.
Your Educational Setting
Experience a dynamic and supportive learning environment at Des Moines University’s state-of-the-art campus at 8025 Grand Ave. in West Des Moines.
Mini Medical School sessions take place in interactive classrooms where theory meets practice. Surrounded by cutting-edge resources and guided by experienced health care professionals and DMU students, you’ll dive deep into medical sciences in spaces designed to foster innovation and discovery.
How to Register
Secure Your FREE Spot in Mini Medical School!
Registration is open until January 31, 2026. Spots are limited to ensure personalized attention and a high-quality participant experience.
Register now* to sign up and confirm your attendance. Although Mini Medical School is free, we ask that participants commit to attending all four sessions.
* Advance registration is required to participate.
Have Questions? Get in Touch!
If you have any questions about DMU’s Mini Medical School or need more information before registering, we are here to help!
Email us at DMUAdmit@dmu.edu. We’re excited to help you start your journey in health care!