Ariel University has launched a new six-year medical degree programme at its Adelson School of Medicine to train the next generation of physicians for Israel’s healthcare system. The programme’s first cohort was welcomed at a ceremony on 5 November 2026. 

“We are opening the door to another generation of doctors who will care for Israel’s citizens and shape the future of medicine in the country,” said Professor Ehud Grossman, President of Ariel

University. “We have developed a distinctive model at Ariel that incorporates advanced clinical teaching from the earliest stages.”

Professor Miriam Adelson drew on her experience as a physician: “I learn from every patient. See them as people, respect all patients, and remember that they also have families.” She encouraged students to consider practising in Israel’s peripheral regions.

Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Chair of the Council for Higher Education, said: “The opening of the six-year medical programme at Ariel University is good news for young people who want to study medicine and for the healthcare system, which needs more doctors.”

Health Ministry Director-General Moshe Bar Siman Tov highlighted national efforts to expand medical training and the need to encourage doctors to work in peripheral regions, particularly in psychiatry, geriatrics and family medicine.

Two students from the first cohort shared the experiences that had brought them to medicine. Hagar Bar-Sadeh, who was born and raised in the United States, moved to Israel alone at 18 and served as a search and rescue instructor in the IDF Home Front Command.

“After my discharge, I could have returned to the United States to study medicine, but it was important to me to stay and contribute to the country,” she said. “I am proud and excited to be part of the first cohort.”

Noya Levinson described pursuing admission to medical school while serving as a reserve signals officer in the Paratroopers Brigade following 7 October 2023, with her reserve service continuing alongside her studies.

“Ariel University opened up a significant opportunity for us at the right time,” she said. “The launch of the six-year programme is much more than a new course of study. It expands opportunities for the next generation of doctors in Israel.”

The ceremony also brought together Professor Iris Barshack, Dean of the Adelson School of Medicine; Professor Dudi Schwartz, Vice-Chair of the Council for Higher Education; Ariel Mayor Yair Chetboun; and university partners.