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School History

Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions (commonly referred to as DeBakey High School) is a nationally recognized magnet high school in the Houston Independent School District (HISD), with a specialized focus on health professions and STEM education.

Historical Overview:

  • Founded: 1972

  • Original Name: High School for Health Professions

  • Renamed: In 1996, to honor Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, a pioneering cardiovascular surgeon and medical educator.

  • Purpose: Established through a partnership between HISD and the Baylor College of Medicine to prepare students for careers in the medical field.

  • First of its Kind: It was the first high school in the United States specifically dedicated to medical professions.

Key Milestones:

  • Academic Excellence: Consistently ranks among the top public high schools nationally (often in U.S. News & World Report and Niche rankings).

  • Programs: Offers rigorous coursework including AP, dual credit, and specialized health science courses such as medical microbiology, pathophysiology, and clinical rotations.

  • Partnerships: Strong ties with Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Medical Center institutions, and various healthcare organizations.