The New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) at Arkansas State University and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock) have announced a new partnership to better prepare students for careers in medicine.
The Pre-Med/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Pathway Program will allow qualified students to complete a bachelor’s degree at UA Little Rock and then continue their medical education at NYITCOM’s campus in Jonesboro, officials said Wednesday. Up to 10 students will be admitted to the program annually through a joint admissions process.
Ann Bain, provost and executive vice chancellor at UA Little Rock, emphasized the importance of providing future doctors with a structured path. “The journey to becoming a physician begins long before medical school,” Bain said. “By creating a clear pathway between our institutions, we’re giving students the confidence, guidance, and opportunities they need to pursue one of the most challenging and rewarding professions while building their future in Arkansas.”
Dr. Shane Speights, dean of NYITCOM at Arkansas State, highlighted the program’s potential to mitigate the physician shortage in the region. “To meet that mission, we must get more students in our pipeline who have ties to the state and are passionate about practicing here,” Speights said. “Partnerships like this one with UA Little Rock are extremely impactful in doing that.”
The pathway program is designed for students pursuing majors in science, technology, engineering, biology, chemistry, physics, or mathematics. It is scheduled to launch in spring 2027, and applications are currently open to interested candidates.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to address critical healthcare workforce shortages in Arkansas and neighboring regions, where the need for qualified medical professionals continues to grow.