A new medical school has opened in Northwest Arkansas. On July 14, 2025, the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) welcomed its first cohort of 48 medical students. It is located in Bentonville, Arkansas and connected to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Heartland Whole Health Institute, and the Scott Family Amazeum via a 5-mile biking//walking trail. The 154,000-square-foot building features state-of-the-art facilities with study & learning spaces, a stimulation center, library, lounge, & rooftop park. It was designed to enhance learning & create a space that encourages overall well-being for students.
Students begin clinical experiences early through local providers such as Mercy, Washington Regional, Highlands Oncology, Arkansas Children’s Northwest, and more. From the school’s website- “The Alice L. Walton Foundation, Heartland Whole Health Institute, and Mercy have committed to a 30-year, $700 million affiliation agreement to expand access to health care, reduce costs, and improve health outcomes in the Heartland. As part of this agreement, Mercy will serve as AWSOM’s primary educational partner. This investment includes a collaboration with Cleveland Clinic to enhance cardiovascular care in the Heartland.”
In an effort to reduce the financial burden & bring more physicians to communities in need in Arkansas, AWSOM is waiving tuition for the first five cohorts of students. Students can find the admission requirements here.
This new medical school will further the Northwest Arkansas Health Care Vision 2030: Continuing the Transformation initiative that was released back in November of 2024. As the population of Northwest Arkansas continues to grow at a rapid pace, ensuring access to affordable, comprehensive, and readily available healthcare is essential to support the region’s long-term well-being and economic vitality. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine will have an impact on healthcare in our region & beyond as each graduating class emerges from this AWSOM place to learn.
