University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Address: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
Phone: +1 501-276-9000
Email: uams@uams.edu
Website: www.uams.edu
About University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Established in 1879, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a non-profit public specialized higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Little Rock (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Arkansas. Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 3,000-3,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 145-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UAMS also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, financial aids and/or scholarships, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Why University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is renowned for several reasons, making it one of the leading academic medical centers in the United States, especially in the state of Arkansas. Here's why it is famous:
1. Comprehensive Medical Education and Training
- UAMS is a key institution for medical education in the region, offering a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, residency programs, and graduate health sciences degrees in nursing, pharmacy, public health, and biomedical sciences. Its College of Medicine is particularly well-known for training physicians who go on to practice in various specialties, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
2. Strong Focus on Rural Health
- UAMS is deeply committed to addressing healthcare disparities in rural communities. As Arkansas’s primary academic medical institution, it plays a critical role in training medical professionals who provide care in these regions. It operates several community health initiatives and offers programs that specifically address rural health needs.
3. Research Excellence
- UAMS is known for its significant contributions to biomedical research and clinical trials. Its research is particularly strong in areas such as cancer, neurology, cardiovascular health, aging, immunology, and translational medicine. The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute is especially notable, conducting cutting-edge research in cancer treatment and prevention. UAMS is a key player in advancing healthcare research in the region and nationally.
4. Health System Integration
- UAMS operates an extensive healthcare network with its own hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers, making it a leader in clinical care. The UAMS Medical Center is the largest academic medical center in the state and provides a wide range of specialty care, including neurosurgery, cancer treatment, pediatric care, and transplant services.
5. Innovation in Healthcare
- UAMS is a hub for healthcare innovation, particularly in digital health and telemedicine. It has implemented state-of-the-art technologies in patient care, education, and research. The university is also a leader in medical simulation and virtual reality training, providing students with cutting-edge tools to enhance their learning and patient care skills.
6. Statewide Impact
- As the only academic health sciences university in Arkansas, UAMS has a tremendous impact on the state's healthcare landscape. It trains the majority of the state's physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other health professionals, and its research, particularly in public health, aging, and rural health, directly benefits the state's population.
7. Affiliated Medical Centers and Hospitals
- UAMS is affiliated with numerous clinical and research institutions, including the Arkansas Children's Hospital, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, and the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. These affiliations provide students with extensive hands-on training and exposure to diverse patient populations and medical conditions.
8. Public Health Leadership
- UAMS’s College of Public Health is instrumental in promoting public health education and addressing health disparities. The college’s focus on areas like epidemiology, health policy, and community health has earned it recognition as a key player in improving healthcare outcomes not only in Arkansas but globally.
9. Nursing and Allied Health Programs
- UAMS’s College of Nursing and College of Health Professions are known for producing highly skilled healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and medical laboratory scientists. The nursing program, in particular, is noted for its innovative training methods and leadership in nursing education.
10. Commitment to Diversity and Equity
- UAMS has a strong commitment to promoting diversity and equity in healthcare education. The university actively works to recruit and train healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that its students reflect the communities they will serve. This focus on diversity extends to the university's research initiatives, which often explore healthcare issues impacting marginalized communities.
11. National Recognition and Rankings
- UAMS is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the United States, particularly in primary care and rural health education. Its College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy are highly regarded, both in terms of educational quality and research output. The U.S. News & World Report and other ranking entities often place UAMS in top positions for public health and medical education.
In summary, UAMS is famous for its comprehensive medical education, research excellence, healthcare services, and focus on rural health, making it a leading institution in medical training and healthcare innovation in Arkansas and the surrounding regions.
Cost of Attendance
| FY 2024-2025 Tuition/Fee | Resident (per semester) | Non-resident (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition* | $17,000 | $33,567 |
| Freshman White Coat Ceremony Fee (one-time) | $25 | $25 |
| Application Fee (one-time) (1) | $100 | $100 |
| Visiting Student Application Service (VSAS) Processing Fee (1) | $100 | $100 |
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), like most medical and health sciences schools, has specific language requirements for non-native English speakers applying to its programs. Here’s a general overview of the language requirements:
1. English Proficiency Requirements
UAMS requires English proficiency for all applicants whose native language is not English. This ensures that students can fully engage in academic coursework, clinical practice, and research. The university typically accepts the following tests:
-
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
- Minimum score of 80 on the iBT (internet-based test) for undergraduate and some graduate programs.
- For certain programs, a higher score may be required (e.g., 100 or above for graduate-level courses).
-
IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
- Minimum overall band score of 6.5 for most programs.
- Higher scores may be required for specific graduate programs, typically ranging from 7.0 or above.
-
Duolingo English Test:
- UAMS may accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to TOEFL or IELTS, with a minimum score of 105.
-
Pearson Test of English (PTE):
- Minimum score of 58-60, depending on the program.
2. Exemptions to the Language Requirements
Applicants who meet any of the following criteria may be exempt from providing TOEFL, IELTS, or other English proficiency test scores:
- Completion of a degree program from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an English-speaking institution where the language of instruction is English.
- Citizenship from an English-speaking country (such as the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, etc.).
- Certain graduate programs may have more flexible language requirements if the applicant has extensive professional experience in English-speaking environments or if they have completed an English-taught degree program in an English-speaking country.
3. Other Considerations
- Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs, especially at the graduate or professional level (such as the MD program, Nursing, Pharmacy, or Public Health), may have stricter language requirements. It is essential to check the specific program page for detailed language proficiency criteria.
- Conditional Admission: In certain cases, UAMS may offer conditional admission to students who meet academic requirements but have not yet achieved the required language proficiency scores. Students may be required to take additional English language courses before fully enrolling.
4. Additional Requirements for International Students
- Visa and Immigration Requirements: Non-U.S. students must meet additional visa and immigration requirements, such as proving financial support and passing health screenings.
- Application Deadlines: International students should be mindful of specific application deadlines, as they may differ from domestic applicants due to visa processing times.
For the most accurate and program-specific language requirements, it is recommended that applicants refer to the official UAMS admissions website or contact the admissions office directly.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) offers a wide range of specialized programs across the health sciences, emphasizing research, education, and clinical care. Here are some of the key areas of specialization:
1. Medicine (MD Program)
- Specialties: UAMS’s College of Medicine provides a comprehensive Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which includes various specialty tracks such as:
- Primary Care
- Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Internal Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
- Radiology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anesthesiology
- Dermatology
- The program is renowned for its strong clinical training, especially in rural health, primary care, and underserved communities.
2. Nursing
- Specialties: UAMS’s College of Nursing offers advanced degree programs, including:
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs with specializations in areas such as:
- Family Nursing
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- Nursing Leadership and Administration
- The university is recognized for its emphasis on nurse practitioners and clinical leadership roles.
3. Pharmacy
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD): The College of Pharmacy offers the PharmD program, which prepares students to become pharmacists. Specializations within the program include:
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Pharmacy Practice
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Pharmacy Administration
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Oncology Pharmacy
- Pediatric Pharmacy
4. Health Professions
- UAMS offers a variety of health professions programs, including:
- Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Occupational Therapy
- Radiologic Imaging Sciences
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Respiratory Therapy
- These programs emphasize clinical practice and interprofessional collaboration.
5. Public Health
- Master of Public Health (MPH): UAMS’s College of Public Health offers a highly regarded MPH program that includes specializations in areas like:
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Environmental Health
- Social and Behavioral Health
- Maternal and Child Health
- Global Health
6. Biomedical Sciences and Research
- PhD in Biomedical Sciences: UAMS offers a robust PhD program in biomedical sciences, which prepares students for careers in research and academia. The areas of research focus include:
- Cancer Research
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Molecular Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- UAMS is particularly recognized for its research in cancer, neuroscience, and cardiovascular health.
7. Dentistry
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS): UAMS also offers a DDS program through its College of Dental Medicine, focusing on comprehensive dental education and hands-on clinical experience.
- Specialties within dentistry include:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
8. Graduate Medical Education (Residency Programs)
- UAMS offers a variety of residency programs in multiple medical specialties, such as:
- Internal Medicine
- Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Psychiatry
- Anesthesiology
- Radiology
9. Research Institutes and Centers
- UAMS is home to several specialized research centers that provide advanced training in specific fields. These include:
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute
- Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging
- Institute for Digital Health and Innovation
- Neuroscience Institute
- Arkansas Children's Research Institute
- Translational Research Institute
These centers focus on cutting-edge research and clinical applications, and students can engage in interdisciplinary research across many health-related fields.
10. Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
- UAMS offers specialized programs in psychiatry and behavioral health, focusing on treatment and research in areas such as:
- Addiction Psychiatry
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Geriatric Psychiatry
UAMS is particularly well-regarded for its emphasis on rural health and community-based care, providing students opportunities to serve in under-resourced areas of Arkansas and beyond. The medical school has strong connections to statewide health initiatives, helping students become well-rounded healthcare providers across diverse patient populations.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has a number of distinguished faculty members in various medical and health sciences fields, though specific "top professors" may vary depending on the department or program. Below are some noteworthy professors and leaders at UAMS known for their contributions to medical research, education, and clinical care:
1. Dr. Gustavo A. Nino (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Pediatrics, Research in childhood cancers.
- Dr. Nino is a prominent researcher in pediatric oncology and has received recognition for his work in developing treatments for childhood cancers. He is affiliated with the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at UAMS.
2. Dr. William L. M. Marczak (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Neurosurgery.
- Dr. Marczak is recognized for his contributions to neurosurgery and has been part of several pioneering efforts in the field. He is known for his work in neurotrauma and spinal surgery.
3. Dr. Michael J. Barash (Professor, College of Pharmacy)
- Specialty: Pharmaceutical sciences and drug development.
- Dr. Barash is a respected figure in pharmacology and drug development, and has worked extensively on drug formulations and biopharmaceuticals.
4. Dr. Peter L. Crooks (Professor, College of Pharmacy)
- Specialty: Pharmacology and molecular pharmacology.
- Dr. Crooks is recognized for his work in drug discovery, particularly in the areas of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. He also leads efforts to improve the effectiveness of medications for complex diseases.
5. Dr. Mark Smeltzer (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Microbiology and Immunology.
- Dr. Smeltzer is known for his research on bacterial infections and the development of treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. His work has implications for hospital-acquired infections and biofilms.
6. Dr. Jose V. Cibelli (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Stem cell research.
- Dr. Cibelli is a leader in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. He has made significant contributions to the field of stem cell therapy and its applications in tissue repair and regeneration.
7. Dr. Thomas M. O’Leary (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Neurology and neuroscience.
- Dr. O’Leary is highly respected in neurology and neuroscience and has made important contributions to understanding neurodegenerative diseases and stroke recovery.
8. Dr. James D. Meador-Woodruff (Professor, College of Medicine)
- Specialty: Psychiatry and Neuroscience.
- Dr. Meador-Woodruff is a well-known researcher in the fields of psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia. His work has helped shape treatment approaches for mental health conditions.
9. Dr. Janet J. Seeley (Professor, College of Public Health)
- Specialty: Public health.
- Dr. Seeley is a leader in public health education, with a focus on health equity, community health, and preventive medicine. She works to address health disparities and improve health outcomes, particularly in rural communities.
These professors represent the diversity and expertise across different departments and specialties at UAMS. Many of them have received awards and recognition for their contributions to research and education. UAMS's faculty members are continually engaged in groundbreaking medical research and innovative clinical practices, making the institution a significant player in healthcare education and service.
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) does not currently have any Nobel Prize laureates associated with it. However, the university is well-regarded for its research in areas such as cancer, neuroscience, aging, biomedical sciences, and healthcare. UAMS faculty and researchers contribute significantly to advancing knowledge in these fields, but none have been awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize as of now.
Many academic medical institutions and universities contribute groundbreaking research that may later influence Nobel-winning discoveries, so while UAMS itself has not produced Nobel Prize winners, its research and educational programs continue to make important contributions to medical science.