University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
General Information
Overview
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is a comprehensive public health sciences university located in Little Rock, Arkansas. Founded in 1879 as the medical department of the University of Arkansas, UAMS has grown into a leading academic medical center with a mission to improve the health, health care, and well-being of the people of Arkansas and beyond. UAMS encompasses education, research, patient care, and community service across its colleges, hospitals, and regional health centers. Its six colleges provide training in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health, health professions, and graduate studies, creating a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare education.
UAMS is also home to robust research programs focusing on translational and clinical studies, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurosciences, infectious diseases, and population health. The university emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, early exposure to patient care, and interprofessional education, producing graduates who are well-prepared to meet the evolving challenges of modern healthcare. UAMS maintains strong partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations statewide, ensuring students and faculty have access to extensive practical and community-based learning opportunities.
Contact Information
Address: 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
Phone Number: +1 (501) 686-5000
Email Address: admissions@uams.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1879 |
| Type | Public Academic Health Sciences University |
| Motto / Mission | Improving health and healthcare through education, research, and patient care |
| Accreditation | Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and relevant professional accrediting bodies for each college |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 3,200 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs |
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Rankings
| Region | Recognition / Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | Ranked among top medical schools in the South for primary care and research |
| Global | Recognized internationally for research output, particularly in translational medicine and public health |
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Academics
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Faculties / Departments
UAMS has six colleges and multiple centers:
- College of Medicine
- College of Nursing
- College of Pharmacy
- College of Health Professions
- College of Public Health
- Graduate School
- Research Centers: Translational Research Institute, Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, Psychiatric Research Institute, Jackson T. Stephens Spine & Neurosciences Institute
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Courses and Programs / Majors
Programs offered include:
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and advanced nursing degrees
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Health professions degrees (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology)
- Public health degrees (MPH, DrPH)
- Graduate programs in biomedical sciences, biostatistics, molecular medicine
- Postgraduate residencies and fellowships in various medical specialties
Online Learning
UAMS offers a range of online and hybrid programs, particularly in nursing, public health, and health professions, allowing working professionals to continue education while maintaining their careers. Courses are delivered through modern learning platforms that combine asynchronous lectures with interactive virtual labs, case studies, and simulation-based learning.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Benchmark / Requirement |
|---|---|
| MCAT | Average 510–515 for MD program |
| GRE | Required for select graduate programs, average scores vary by program |
| PCAT | Required for PharmD applicants, percentile typically 60–80th |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The average retention rate at UAMS is approximately 92%, reflecting strong student support and academic resources. Graduation rates for professional programs like MD, PharmD, and BSN are typically above 85%, indicative of rigorous academic standards and effective student guidance programs.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Undergraduate and professional programs at UAMS have competitive GPA requirements. For the MD program, the average GPA is around 3.7, while pharmacy applicants often present GPAs above 3.5. Standardized test requirements vary by program, with MCAT, PCAT, or GRE scores considered in conjunction with academic performance, experience, and interview evaluations.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Acceptance Rate
| Program | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| MD Program | ~7–8% |
| PharmD Program | ~15% |
| Nursing and Health Professions | 40–60%, varies by program |
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Application Requirements
Applicants are expected to submit official transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and documentation of relevant healthcare or research experience. Professional programs may also require interviews and supplemental essays. For graduate programs, research experience and letters highlighting academic and professional aptitude are critical components.
Application Process
- Complete the centralized or program-specific application (AMCAS for MD, PharmCAS for pharmacy).
- Submit transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended.
- Provide standardized test scores (MCAT, GRE, or PCAT depending on program).
- Submit letters of recommendation and personal statement.
- Participate in interviews if invited.
- Receive admission decision and complete enrollment requirements including background checks and immunizations for clinical programs.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Program | Deadline |
|---|---|
| MD Program | October 15 for early consideration, rolling admissions through January |
| PharmD Program | February 1 |
| Nursing Programs | Varies by entry level, generally January–March |
| Graduate Programs | Typically December–February depending on program |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are asked to submit a personal statement highlighting motivation for pursuing a career in healthcare, previous academic and professional experiences, long-term goals, and a commitment to serving communities, particularly in Arkansas.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Scholarships
UAMS offers merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. There are specialized awards for students in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and public health. Additionally, loan forgiveness and service-based scholarships are available for students committing to work in underserved areas.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program | Estimated Tuition / Fees |
|---|---|
| MD Program | $28,000–$34,000 per year (in-state), $54,000–$60,000 per year (out-of-state) |
| PharmD Program | $22,000–$30,000 per year (in-state), $35,000–$42,000 per year (out-of-state) |
| Nursing / Health Professions | $10,000–$25,000 per year depending on program and residency |
| Graduate Programs | $10,000–$20,000 per year depending on program |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
UAMS has a diverse student body with a balanced mix of genders and strong representation of underrepresented minorities in healthcare. The average student age varies widely by program, with professional programs attracting students in their early to mid-20s and graduate programs often enrolling students in their late 20s to 40s.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The university supports low-income and disabled students through dedicated financial aid, counseling, accessibility services, and mentorship programs. Programs are designed to accommodate students with diverse needs, including flexible course schedules and accessible clinical placements.
Student Body Breakdown
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~3,200 |
| Medical Students | ~700 |
| Pharmacy Students | ~500 |
| Nursing Students | ~800 |
| Graduate Students | ~1,200 |
| International Students | ~5–10% of total enrollment |
University Diversity
UAMS fosters a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion across its academic and clinical environments. Students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds learn collaboratively in interprofessional teams. Diversity initiatives focus on reducing health disparities, increasing representation in healthcare, and creating inclusive learning spaces. UAMS also engages in outreach programs to recruit and mentor students from underrepresented communities, contributing to a pipeline of culturally competent healthcare professionals.
Average Earnings
Graduates from UAMS programs are highly employable. Physicians from the MD program often enter residency programs with competitive salaries that increase significantly upon completion. Pharmacy graduates typically earn starting salaries ranging from $100,000–$120,000, while nursing and allied health professionals earn competitive wages relative to regional norms. Alumni generally report strong career satisfaction and advancement opportunities in academic, clinical, and research settings.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
UAMS employs highly qualified faculty across all its colleges, including professors, clinicians, researchers, and instructors. Staff includes academic advisors, administrative personnel, lab coordinators, and clinical educators who support students in academic and practical experiences.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members are recognized nationally and internationally for contributions to medicine, pharmacy, nursing, public health, and biomedical research. Many hold dual roles in teaching and clinical practice, ensuring students gain exposure to cutting-edge treatments and research innovations. Faculty achievements include publications in top journals, leadership in professional organizations, and grants for clinical and translational research.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
UAMS is located on a modern urban campus in Little Rock. While most students in professional programs reside off-campus, the university provides guidance on nearby housing and student services. Campus facilities include research labs, simulation centers, libraries, and student lounges. Student life emphasizes professional development, interprofessional learning, and community engagement.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via public transit, including buses and regional transport options. On-campus parking is available for students and faculty. Many students rely on personal vehicles for commuting to clinical sites across the state, while the university provides shuttle services for specific programs and regional medical centers.