Methodist University Medical School in Fayetteville Gains Accreditation

BREAKING NEWS: The Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine in Fayetteville, North Carolina, has just received official accreditation, paving the way to launch its inaugural class. This vital milestone is set to address the pressing shortage of healthcare professionals in the region.

Classes at the new medical school will commence in July 2026, following a significant investment of $65 million in state-of-the-art facilities located on the Cape Fear Medical Center campus. The school is a collaborative effort between Methodist University and Cape Fear Valley Health System, both committed to enhancing medical education and healthcare delivery.

“We are short of doctors in every single specialty in this region, and the purpose of this medical school is to correct that,” said Dr. Hershey Bell, Founding Dean of the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in alleviating the local healthcare crisis.

Starting within the next 10 days, the medical school will begin accepting applications from prospective students. Dr. Bell anticipates receiving between 2,000 and 2,500 applications, with plans to interview around 350 candidates during the fall or winter months. Ultimately, the school aims to accept 64 students into its charter class, marking a significant step towards building a robust healthcare workforce.

In preparation for its opening, the school has already hired over 50 faculty and staff members. Additionally, it will collaborate with more than 200 clinical faculty from Cape Fear Valley Health System, ensuring students receive comprehensive, hands-on training.

The establishment of this medical school is a direct response to the growing demand for healthcare services in North Carolina, particularly in underserved areas. As the region grapples with a critical doctor shortage, the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine aims to fill this gap by training the next generation of physicians.

As the school gears up for its first class, stakeholders and community members eagerly await the positive impacts it will bring, not just in education but also in improving health outcomes across the region. This development is more than just a new educational institution; it represents hope for a healthier future for Fayetteville and beyond.

Stay tuned for further updates as application processes unfold and the school prepares for its groundbreaking journey in medical education.