Hackensack Meridian School Of Medicine: A Comprehensive Guide
Is a new medical school in Nutley, New Jersey, a beacon of hope in the face of a growing healthcare crisis? The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, a pioneering institution, is striving to reshape the landscape of medical education and address the critical shortage of physicians in the region and beyond.
Opened in 2015, the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine embarked on its journey, initially operating under the umbrella of Seton Hall University. However, a significant milestone was achieved in July 2020, when it transitioned into an independent entity, marking a new era of autonomy and growth. This transformation was a strategic move, allowing the school to chart its own course and tailor its programs to best serve the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. This exciting development is particularly crucial as the United States braces for a shortfall of approximately 68,000 primary care physicians by the year 2036, according to federal estimates.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine |
| Location | Nutley and Clifton, New Jersey |
| Affiliation | Hackensack Meridian Health |
| Year Opened | 2015 (Initial); Independent in 2020 |
| Accreditation | Full Accreditation granted by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) in February 2023 |
| Application Fee | $80 |
| 2026 Tuition | $78,335 |
| Curriculum Focus | Social determinants of health, community outreach, innovative curriculum |
| Unique Program Features | MD program with early residency placement, seamless transition from Seton Hall University bachelor's degree programs |
| Residency Destinations | Mayo Clinic, University of Pennsylvania, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and more. |
| Link | Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine Official Website |
The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine stands as a testament to the commitment of Hackensack Meridian Health to invest in its community. With a state-of-the-art facility and a forward-thinking approach to medical education, the school is not only preparing the next generation of physicians but also actively working to address the physician shortage, particularly in New Jersey, where the concentration of family physicians is already critically low.
A key element of the school's mission is to address the physician shortage, a pressing issue not only in New Jersey but across the nation. The school has an innovative curriculum that focuses on the social determinants of health and community outreach. The school aims to achieve its vision that each person in New Jersey, and beyond, has access to quality healthcare.
The schools annual Match Day, a significant event for graduating students, was held at MetLife Stadium, a venue that underscores the school's growing stature and the importance of this milestone. The 2023 event saw 136 students celebrating as they learned their residency placements. These aspiring doctors, equipped with the knowledge and skills gained at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, will now begin their specialized training, contributing to the broader healthcare landscape. Graduates of the school have secured placements in some of the most competitive residency programs across the country, including the Mayo Clinic, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, a testament to the quality of education and training provided.
A major stride towards establishing the school's credibility was the granting of full accreditation by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) in February 2023. This recognition affirmed the school's adherence to rigorous educational standards and its commitment to producing highly competent and compassionate physicians. Furthermore, the fact that the school welcomed its first class in 2018 and has since graduated multiple classes reflects its rapid growth and its capacity to make a tangible impact on the medical field. The medical students came from the 2020 cohort of the medical school (75 students) who graduated after four years.
The admissions process is another critical aspect of the schools operation. It seeks individuals with strong academic backgrounds and diverse experiences. Candidates must submit an AMCAS application, followed by a secondary application if selected. Prerequisites include coursework in biology, ensuring a solid foundation in the sciences for all incoming students. The school evaluates applicants holistically, seeking individuals with strong academic backgrounds, diverse experiences, and a commitment to healthcare.
The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine offers an MD program that places medical students into residencies in their fourth year, rather than after medical school. During your first four years, you can complete a bachelor's degree at Seton Hall in any subject of your choosing, as long as you meet the core requirements.
The school is strategically located on the ON3 campus in Nutley and Clifton, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant learning environment. The school is committed to fostering research initiatives. The HMH Research Institute brings together various disciplines to focus on the patient and their health. This commitment to research allows the school to complement its educational programs with promising talent among students and faculty.
The schools financial considerations are also important. The 2026 tuition at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine is $78,335. The 2026 tuition & fees is increased by 3.35% compared to the previous year rate (2025). Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine 's tuition is 16.11% higher than the average tuition of U.S. Medical schools and similar to the average tuition of New Jersey medical schools.
The institution also benefits from the guidance of experienced professionals. Program Director, Assistant Professor, Robert Wood Johnson, Rutgers Research/Clinical Interests: Medical Education research on coaching and feedback Deepti Reddy, M.D. The schools library is located at 123 Metro Boulevard, Nutley, NJ 07110. The library offers an array of resources to support the students academic pursuits.
For those considering applying, the application fee is $80. The schools presence on social media, with an unofficial subreddit, provides a safe forum for current and future doctors to discuss all things Hackensack.
The school's mission is not just about producing doctors; it's about equipping them with the skills and compassion to address the complex healthcare needs of the community. The school is helping to address the physician shortage.
The school's collaborative efforts are exemplified by the program that allows students to transition seamlessly from a bachelor's degree in any major at Seton Hall University to the MD Program at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Allen's is proud to provide Hackensack Meridian with logo apparel for staff and associates. They offer a range of functional and stylish jackets, scrubs, tops, and accessories.
In essence, the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine is much more than just a medical school; it is a dynamic force driving positive change within the healthcare system. It strives to produce well-rounded, empathetic, and highly skilled physicians ready to face the challenges of modern medicine. Its commitment to innovation, community engagement, and addressing critical healthcare needs positions it as a leader in medical education and a vital asset to the communities it serves. This pioneering institution is helping to address the physician shortage.
