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Sul Ross State University and the Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (SHSU-COM) have entered into a new agreement to increase opportunities for aspiring medical students.

Both universities are members of the Texas State University System (TSUS).

The TSUS Physician Pathway Early Acceptance Program provides a streamlined path to medical school for a select group of SRSU students. This initiative is designed to identify highly motivated Sul Ross freshmen who reflect SHSU-COM’s mission and demonstrate strong academic potential. Through the program, qualified students will be able to secure early acceptance into SHSU-COM while completing their undergraduate degree at Sul Ross.

Up to 14 students across the Texas State University System will be accepted into the program annually, including two students from Sul Ross State University. Participants will benefit from personalized mentorship, MCAT preparation, admissions guidance and hands-on enrichment opportunities throughout their undergraduate years.

To qualify, students must be Texas residents, maintain a minimum 3.6 overall GPA and 3.5 science GPA, and complete at least 30 credit hours by the time of program acceptance. Once accepted, participants receive conditional admission to SHSU-COM, pending completion of all program requirements and a minimum MCAT score of 502.

The College of Osteopathic Medicine at SHSU will invest in students’ success by providing:

  • MCAT preparation curriculum valued at approximately $1,500 per participant
  • Two week-long summer internships with medical school–style training
  • One-on-one mentorship from SHSU-COM faculty and current medical students

The MOU took effect immediately and runs through December 2028, with potential for renewal. Applications will open in Summer 2026 for rising sophomores from participating TSUS institutions.

“This partnership represents an incredible opportunity for our students,” Dr. Dean Culpepper, the Dean of the SRSU College of Health Sciences. “By collaborating with SHSU-COM, we’re opening doors for future physicians who want to serve Texas communities, especially in rural and underserved areas.”

Students interested in joining the program can learn more by contacting the Sul Ross Pre-Health Advisory Office or SHSU-COM Enrollment Services at (936) 202-5202 or enrollcom@shsu.edu.

For more information, email dean.culpepper@sulross.edu.