Wichita State University and the Kansas Health Science Center – Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine have announced a partnership that is aimed at addressing a physician shortage in the state.
The agreement allows a select number of Wichita State University students to accelerate their career path with a 3+4 program. Qualified students who meet admission requirements will have the opportunity to begin their first year of medical school in their senior year of undergraduate studies at WSU. After completing their first year at KHSC-KansasCOM, they will receive their bachelor’s degree from WSU, thereby having the opportunity to complete both undergraduate work and a medical degree in seven years.
KHSC-KansasCOM will reserve first-year seats, beginning in the fall of 2025, for WSU students who meet specific course requirements within their undergraduate program and admissions criteria at KHSC-KansasCOM. The students will have the opportunity to transition to the college in pursuit of their medical degree with the class of 2029.
Dr. Tiffany Masson, president of the KHSC, said in a press release that the physician shortage is projected to worsen in the next decade. She said the program with Wichita State will help build the physician workforce of the future through a 3+4 program that will train a qualified workforce at an expedited pace.
WSU president Richard Muma said the agreement will enable Wichita State students “to fast-track their academic and career goals, address the medical care shortages in Kansas communities, and enhance health outcomes for millions in our region.”
