Rural Medicine Program | College of Sciences and Mathematics

Rural Medicine Program

Preparing Future Physicians to Serve Rural Alabama

The Rural Medicine Program trains future physicians to serve Alabama’s rural communities while strengthening the future of health care across the state. A collaboration between Auburn University’s College of Sciences and Mathematics and the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, the program is designed for students who are committed to serving communities where access to care is often limited. Since launching in 2006, the Rural Medicine Program has provided students with a strong academic, clinical and professional foundation for medical school and future rural practice.

Students begin with a pre-matriculation year at Auburn, where they complete advanced science coursework, receive academic guidance and take part in experiences that deepen their understanding of rural medicine. Students also begin as a cohort before medical school, building a strong peer support network that continues through medical school, residency and rural practice.

After the Auburn year, students continue their medical training through the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, with hands-on clinical experiences through the Huntsville Rural Medical Campus.

The program has demonstrated exceptional outcomes in developing Alabama’s rural physician workforce. Nearly 70% of practicing graduates are Family Medicine physicians, and more than 50% currently practice in rural Alabama, helping expand access to care in underserved communities across the state.

The Auburn Year

Once admitted to the Rural Medicine Program, students complete a full academic year at Auburn University before beginning medical school at UAB. To successfully complete the Auburn year and matriculate to the UAB Heersink School of Medicine, students must earn a 3.5 GPA in their required coursework.

The RMP Academic Director works with each student to develop an individualized plan of study based on their academic preparation, educational background and professional goals. Students complete the Auburn year through one of three pathways. More information about coursework and pathway options is available below.

View Pre-Matriculation Year Curriculum

Coursework may include:

Clinical applications
Biomedical physiology
Hematology
Immunology
Histology
Genetics
Cell biology
Pharmacology
Health care administration

Signature RMP Experiences

a group of student in a federal building In addition to coursework, Rural Medicine Program students participate in a variety of required experiences designed to strengthen their understanding of rural health care, develop professional skills and build connections with physicians, community leaders and fellow cohort members. Required program experiences include:

Orientation Weekend before the fall semester, which introduces students to the program, clinical experiences and their cohort
White Coat Ceremony during the first week of the fall semester, marking the beginning of students' journey toward a career in medicine
Field Trips to Rural Alabama Communities during the fall semester, providing firsthand exposure to rural health care systems and community health needs
Washington, D.C. Rural Health Policy Institute hosted by the National Rural Health Association in February, where students engage with policymakers, learn about physician advocacy and examine challenges facing rural health care across the nation.
Annual Awards Banquet near the end of the spring semester, celebrating student accomplishments and recognizing the physicians, donors and community partners who support the program

View Photos from the Fall 2025 White Coat Ceremony

View Photos from the Spring 2026 RMP Banquet

View Photos from the RMP 20th Anniversary

Meet the Team

The Rural Medicine Program is supported by leaders at Auburn University and the UAB Heersink School of Medicine who guide students through the academic, medical and clinical components of the program.