Is the merger a "done deal," and what is the timeline?
The decision to integrate the two medical schools is complete. We are now in the next phase of the process, which is to seek combined accreditation. It is anticipated that the first class of the new "Rutgers School of Medicine" will be enrolled in the 2028 academic year. Over the next five years, we will be aligning our work to achieve accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). Our work will be conducted in a way that promotes equitable representation and allows opportunities for all medical school community members to contribute to the vision.
Why is medical school integration being pursued?
First, a single medical school accreditation within Rutgers will create a stronger, more innovative institution that offers enhanced educational and research opportunities. By aligning and not competing, we create a hub of biomedical and health sciences education, research, and clinical care that will allow us to better serve our communities. With one Rutgers School of Medicine, we can expand academic programs, improve infrastructure, and enrich learning environments.
In the past, the two medical schools have been competitors for talent and resources. Now, we can be allies in attracting students, grants, and faculty who are pioneers in their fields. We are already leveraging opportunities for philanthropic support of our vision.
Next, as the state university, Rutgers and now Rutgers School of Medicine, we have an obligation to the residents of New Jersey to lead in transformative healthcare delivery. Through the creation of Rutgers School of Medicine, with campuses in Newark and New Brunswick, we will have an academic healthcare delivery enterprise that will better serve all New Jersey communities. Our residents must receive the highest quality of healthcare.
What are the benefits to integration?
We must be together, and aligned, to accomplish this mission. Together, we are greater than the sum of our parts. Together we can have even greater influence over the provision of health education in our state. An integrated model of medical education will position Rutgers School of Medicine as a leading public medical school nationally.
- First, it will enhance our ability to attract top talent with an enhanced national reputation and elevated ranking.
- Second, by leveraging research opportunities, the Rutgers School of Medicine will become a leader in innovation and attract more federal and industry funding for competitive clinical trials.
- Third, it will allow Rutgers to expand specialty hospital care and offer more patient services to reduce health care inequities. Aligned medical schools will expand opportunities for students, providing innovative experiences on both campuses.
It also will enhance opportunities for development and fundraising as a single medical school under the Rutgers brand in support of our missions.
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