Texas is struggling to produce enough doctors, nurses, and clinicians to meet the growing demand for healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities. The state’s universities are working to build pipelines of students from diverse backgrounds to fill this gap. However, despite these efforts, diversity gaps persist, with Black and Latino men representing only 2.9% and 3.2% of medical school graduates nationwide.
First-year pre-med students like Brian Mata and Ronald King are facing unique challenges as they transition from high school to university life. Without early exposure to science and math in high school, these students struggle with self-doubt and confidence. To address this issue, North Texas colleges are implementing programs that provide mentoring networks, research opportunities, and structured advising to keep students engaged in healthcare pathways.
Despite the progress being made, socioeconomic barriers and awareness remain significant obstacles. University officials acknowledge that financial constraints and lack of visibility can deter students from pursuing careers in medicine. For example, at Tarrant County College, prerequisites such as anatomy and physiology are a major hurdle for many students.
Early exposure to science, math, and clinical experiences is critical in building confidence and preparing students for medical school. Programs like the Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences (TABS) provide hands-on learning opportunities and early credits that help students stay on track. TCU’s STEM Scholar program also offers weekly meetings with the director and a monthly faculty mentor check-in to support students struggling in their pre-med coursework.
To overcome diversity gaps, universities are working to increase representation and visibility among underrepresented groups. Dr. Kirk Calhoun, president of UNT Health Fort Worth, emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments where students feel encouraged to pursue careers in medicine. By providing tailored support and resources, universities can help bridge the gap between diverse backgrounds and healthcare careers.
As the state continues to face a critical doctor shortage, it is essential that universities prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives to ensure that all students have access to quality education and career opportunities.
Source: https://fortworthreport.org/2025/12/02/how-north-texas-colleges-work-to-keep-pre-med-students-in-the-health-care-pipeline