About the Rural Medicine Program

Funded by the State of Alabama and now in its 19th year, the Rural Medicine Program (RMP) is a strategic collaboration between Auburn University’s College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM) and the UAB Heersink School of Medicine. Launched in 2006, the RMP aims to address the shortage of primary care physicians in rural Alabama by preparing students for medical school and encouraging their return to serve rural communities. With nearly 50% of graduates continuing to practice in rural areas, the RMP plays a vital role in enhancing healthcare access in Alabama.

The program includes a pre-matriculation year at Auburn University, followed by medical training at UAB, and hands-on clinical experience in Huntsville. This three-phase structure includes rigorous science courses, clinical mentorship, and experiential learning, all designed to foster a strong commitment to rural medicine among its students. 

Pre-matriculation year at Auburn University

Once admitted to RMP, students must apply to Auburn University, or continue their enrollment at Auburn, for pre-matriculation studies. Each student will spend a full academic year (fall and spring semesters) taking a minimum of 12 credits per semester.

The RMP Academic Director will assist each student in creating a plan of study that best prepares them for the first year of medical school. Specific courses will depend on each individual student’s academic background and previous preparation.

Typical courses include Clinical Applications I & II; Biomedical Physiology; Hematology; Immunology; Histology; Genetics; Cell Biology; Health Administration.

Successful completion of the RMP-Auburn year requires a 3.5 GPA in these courses for admission to UAB Heersink School of Medicine.

Extra-curricular requirements at Auburn

• Students will attend a required program and clinical orientation in August before classes begin for the Fall semester.
• Students will attend the Washington D.C. Governmental Affairs Conference of the Medical Association of Alabama in February.

For more information on the program and application process: https://www.uab.edu/medicine/home/education/md-program/rural-medicine/rural-medicine-program

David Bramm, MD
RMP Program Director
UAB Heersink School of Medicine
Huntsville Rural Medical Campus
davidbramm@uabmc.edu

Maggie Han, PhD
RMP Academic Director
Auburn University
College of Sciences and Mathematics
xzh0003@auburn.edu

Keith Bufford, MD
RMP Medical Director
Auburn University