Our Focus

If you have a passion for serving the remarkable people living in Minnesota’s rural communities, including vibrant immigrant communities, this campus is a wonderful option for you. Our focus is on educating future physicians who aspire to be great clinicians and leaders across Greater Minnesota. And by partnering with physicians throughout CentraCare, you will learn in a variety of settings and communities to best prepare you for your future in medicine.

Your Opportunity

If you attend the CentraCare Regional Campus in St. Cloud, you’ll have a truly rare opportunity. You’ll learn at one of the country’s most esteemed medical schools – the University of Minnesota is ranked #2 nationally in primary care. And, at CentraCare, you’ll have unmatched rural-based clinical care options offered by one of the most award-winning systems in the nation. This combination of an academic medical center and community-based integrated health system will give you a unique experience.

Leadership

Cindy Firkins Smith, MD

Cindy Firkins Smith, MD

Dr. Smith is a life-long rural resident, long-term rural physician and active University of Minnesota Medical School faculty member. She spearheads this exciting work of building a coalition of CentraCare, University of Minnesota Medical School, and community stakeholders – all of whom are dedicated to developing a very special student experience.

“We know that the best way to get more doctors in Greater Minnesota is to attract rural-oriented applicants, educate them locally, and show them the joy and privilege of serving rural people.”

Jill Amsberry, DO

Jill Amsberry, DO

Dr. Amsberry leads development of undergraduate medical education for the CentraCare – St. Cloud Regional Campus. She is committed to blending evidence-based principles in medical education with community engagement.

“We have an exhilarating opportunity in this innovative program to elevate the standard of care in Minnesota’s rural communities.”

Tom Satre, MD

Tom Satre, MD

Dr. Satre directs the University of Minnesota CentraCare St. Cloud Family Medicine Residency. He is also the editor-in-chief of the HelpDesk Answers project for the Family Physicians Inquiries Network. He mentors residents in research and writing. Other pursuits include transforming medical practice to improve quality and value in a patient-centered manner.

“When medical students graduate, they will have a variety of rich clinical residency options throughout Greater Minnesota.”

Admissions

If the focus of this campus excites you and matches your aspirations, we encourage you to apply. Please follow the guidelines on the Admissions page, and select CentraCare – St. Cloud as your preferred site. We will begin accepting applications in May 2024 for the incoming class of 2025. 

Go to Admissions

Our Road Ahead

Work is underway to create a special learning environment for medical students at the new CentraCare Regional Campus in St. Cloud. Below is the timeline and progress as we move closer to welcoming our first year of medical students in the fall of 2025.

DECEMBER 2023
LCME accreditation notification form submitted
JANUARY 2024
CentraCare opens clerkship rotations to 3rd & 4th year medical students from the Twin Cities Campus
FEBRUARY 2024
LCME support received for Regional Campus expansion
MAY 2024
Accepts first medical school applications
2025
CentraCare launches new residency program slots and specialties
FALL 2025
Opens with first class of 24 first-year students
2028
Reaches maturity with a total enrollment of 96 students
2029
First class graduates
2038
CentraCare residency program reaches maturity with 55 total residents in five programs

Campus Life

Nestled in the heart of Central Minnesota, the St. Cloud campus is located along the Sauk River near its confluence with the Mississippi River in St. Cloud. The educational experience offers small class sizes led by exemplary and experienced faculty, and the campus facilities, student housing and parking are all conveniently located for students. And life in St. Cloud has something for everyone. From a vibrant local arts scene and premier music venues to regional sports and entertainment options, St. Cloud is a thriving community and economic hub of Central Minnesota. And for outdoor enthusiasts, there is easy access to incredible nature and outdoor activities in every season.