Lincoln Scholars Program

Launching Illinois's next generation of rural physicians 

Welcome

SIU School of Medicine’s mission is to prepare highly skilled and compassionate community-focused physicians who are committed to addressing the unique health care needs of rural populations. The Lincoln Scholars Program has been specifically designed to train the next generation of hometown healers.

Through innovative education, early hands-on clinical experiences and a strong emphasis on teamwork, we empower our students to make a lasting impact in underserved communities across southern Illinois and beyond.

As part of the Rural MD Program, students spend all four years of their training at our Carbondale campus, gaining the expertise needed to serve rural communities effectively, with the option for electives in Springfield during PEP and fourth year.

Join us in shaping the future of rural medicine.

Lincoln scholars treating patient
faculty-default-image

Our faculty

The faculty at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine is focused on educating the region's top physicians, researching new models of care, and providing expert clinical services that address the health care needs of central and southern Illinois.

Curriculum

The Lincoln Scholars Program (LSP) medical curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in rural medicine through a blend of innovative learning methods and hands-on clinical experiences.

FAQs

Are LSP students required to go into a Primary Care specialty? 

While Primary Care specialties are emphasized in the LSP, there is no requirement to specialize in Primary Care.

Are LSP students required to practice in a rural area after residency? 

LSP students are encouraged and especially prepared to practice in rural/underserved areas, but there is no specific requirement. There are, however, state and federal incentives to practice in rural/underserved areas.

When will I begin seeing patients? 

LSP students begin seeing patients in the first few months of medical school during weekly mentor clinic. 
 

Photo galleries

Lincoln Scholars celebration
LSP inaugural class celebration
LSP Match Day
LSP Match Day
Lincoln scholars treating patient
LSP in the field

Latest articles

Dr. Tyler Fulks, first aid provider

Dr. Tyler Fulks & SIU providing emergency care at state fair

As families flock to the Illinois State Fair for deep-fried delicacies and dizzying rides, an essential team works quietly behind the scenes to ensure their safety.
Maci Burgener and Evan Beilfuss

Baby med school on steroids leads to hometown health care

For many aspiring medical professionals, the journey to becoming a physician can feel like navigating a complex maze. For Evan Beilfuss and Maci Burgener, their paths converged at SIU School of
Hendrick Hamilton and RISE classmates

RISE-ing to the occasion

At the AAMC’s summer leadership conference, second-year medical student Hendrick Hamilton learned some valuable lessons for professional and personal growth.

More from the department

 

We're on social