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Students study human anatomy models in a busy classroom setting. Biotechnology Microschool.

Innovations in Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool

A Seamless Pathway from High School to Medical Careers

The Innovations in Medicine & Biotechnology Microschool, powered by the PAST Foundation, offers high school students an accelerated, cost-free pathway into medical and bioscience careers. Through a unique blend of academic coursework, hands-on clinical experience, and industry-recognized credentials, students graduate ready to thrive in college and the healthcare workforce.

Students in lab coats examining a heart at Biotechnology Microschool with PAST Foundation
Smiling woman in pink hoodie with laptop at a table, joyful expression.

Why Choose This Microschool?

  • Students earn 14 college credits toward a Medical Laboratory Technology AAS at Columbus State Community College. Thanks to 2+2 transfer agreements, graduates can pursue bachelor’s degrees at institutions like The Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati.

  • Graduates earn a Clinical Laboratory Assisting Certificate, enabling them to work in lab settings upon high school graduation or while continuing their education.

  • Through mentorships and internships with medical professionals, students apply what they learn in real-world clinical and research environments.

  • Supported through Career Technical Funding and College Credit Plus, the program is designed to reduce or eliminate financial barriers.

  • In addition to the Clinical Laboratory Assisting Certificate, students earn additional industry-recognized credentials relevant to multiple healthcare career paths.

  • Students receive dedicated support in planning their educational and career pathways in the medical field.

Program Structure 

Year A

Fall Semester

  • COLS 1101: First Year Experience Seminar

  • Career exploration in healthcare

  • Health simulations & introductory credentials

Spring Semester

  • MLT 1100: Basic Concepts in Healthcare

  • BIO 1101: Fundamentals of Human Anatomy & Physiology

  • Workforce development & capstone project

Year B

Fall Semester

  • MULT 1110: Medical Terminology or HIMT 1274: Medical Reimbursement & Coding

  • PSY 1100: Introduction to Psychology

  • Advanced credentials & career counseling

Spring Semester

  • MLT 1112: Laboratory Theory for Health Industries

  • MLT 1113: Laboratory Technique for Health Industries

  • Industry credentials, workforce readiness & final capstone

Program Benefits

Lower Cost, Higher Value

Students graduate high school with credentials and up to 14 college credits—reducing the total cost of a college degree.

College-Ready and Career-Certified

Students are certified for entry-level positions in medical laboratories, providing income and experience that enhance future opportunities.

Equity-Focused

Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the program supports students from all backgrounds in pursuing careers in healthcare.

Innovation in Action

The Microschool acts as a research and development model for new ways to teach, mentor, and prepare students for medical careers.

Why It Matters

Early, hands-on exposure to the medical field helps students:

  • Build confidence and STEM identity

  • Envision real-world careers

  • Gain critical experience and credentials before college
     

Students graduate not only with a strong academic foundation, but with mentors, networks, and a head start toward a meaningful future in healthcare.

Want to bring this program to your school or community?

Student looking through a microscope in a Biotechnology Microschool lab setting.
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