Ariel University Approves New Six-Year Medical School Program
Ariel University's Adelson School of Medicine has received approval to launch a new six-year medical degree program for 80 students per cohort, alongside a pioneering master's program for physician associates to bolster national healthcare staffing.
The Council for Higher Education has approved the launch of a new six-year medical degree program at the Adelson School of Medicine at Ariel University. Named in honor of Dr. Miriam Adelson, publisher of Israel Hayom, and the late Sheldon Adelson, the program will accept 80 students per cohort, culminating in an M.D. degree.
Expanding Medical Training in Israel
The decision follows a rigorous review by a professional committee and is designed to address the growing national shortage of physicians. Training an additional 80 students per cohort will significantly boost the number of medical graduates entering the healthcare system over time.
This initiative complements the establishment of four new medical faculties in recent years, joining institutions like the Weizmann Institute of Science, Reichman University, and the University of Haifa. Together, these developments have expanded the total number of medical students nationwide from 800 five years ago to 1,446 for the upcoming academic year.
Institutional and Academic Impact
"This is an important and meaningful day for the Israeli healthcare system, for the Faculty of Medicine at Ariel University, and personally for me," said Prof. Iris Barshak, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine.
In addition to the six-year track, the council approved a novel master's degree program for "physician associates," the first of its kind in Israel. This academic track aims to integrate qualified professionals alongside specialist doctors, performing specific medical procedures authorized under a 2024 amendment to the law regulating health professions.
