Explore new residency programs for 2026. Stay informed and increase your chances with the latest ACGME-accredited options.
For medical graduates preparing for the 2026 residency match, staying ahead of the curve is critical. One of the most overlooked strategies for increasing your chances of matching is exploring new residency programs. These programs, freshly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), present unique opportunities for those applying in 2026.
In this blog post, we break down the most promising new residency programs for 2026 with insights into program codes, specialties, and locations.
Table of Contents
Why Focus on New Residency Programs in 2026?
As the medical field evolves, so do the training pathways. New residency programs in 2026 are designed to address gaps in care, regional training needs, and the growing demand for specialized and general physicians alike. These programs often provide more personalized attention, cutting-edge curriculum, and a chance to be part of an institution’s foundational class—an exciting opportunity for residents eager to make a mark.
Whether you’re an IMG, a non-traditional applicant, or simply looking to optimize your match strategy, new residency programs for 2026 can offer an edge.
Pediatrics: New Residency Programs for 2026
| Program Name | Program Code | Specialty | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Southeastern University – College of Osteopathic Medicine Program | 3201100002 | Pediatrics | Florida |
Nova Southeastern University – College of Osteopathic Medicine Program
This program brings a strong osteopathic foundation to pediatric training, emphasizing a holistic, family-centered approach. Located in a vibrant medical community, Nova Southeastern University is poised to attract applicants seeking strong mentorship, access to diverse patient populations, and the benefits of a newly accredited program with growth potential.
If you’re passionate about pediatrics and eager to train in Florida, this is a new residency program for 2026 that deserves serious consideration.
Transitional Year Programs for 2026
Transitional year programs are vital for graduates entering advanced specialties like radiology, dermatology, anesthesiology, or physical medicine and rehabilitation. For the 2026 match, several new transitional year programs have gained accreditation and are now open for applications.
Here’s a detailed look at each:
| Program Name | Program Code | Specialty | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Program | 9990400004 | Transitional Year | Arkansas |
| Morehouse School of Medicine/Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Program | 9990500006 | Transitional Year | California |
| Kern Medical Center Program | 9990500012 | Transitional Year | California |
| Florida State University College of Medicine Program | 9991100011 | Transitional Year | Florida |
| BayCare Health System (St. Joseph’s Hospital) Program | 9991100012 | Transitional Year | Florida |
| TidalHealth Program | 9992300001 | Transitional Year | Maryland |
| McLaren Health Care Corporation Program | 9992500001 | Transitional Year | Michigan |
Let’s explore what makes each of these new residency programs for 2026 unique:
1. Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine – Transitional Year
Located in a region with underserved populations, this program is expected to offer hands-on clinical exposure in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Ideal for applicants who value a community-focused training environment.
2. Morehouse School of Medicine/Bakersfield Memorial Hospital – Transitional Year
This collaboration brings a historically strong academic institution together with a growing California health system. As a new residency program in 2026, it offers rich clinical diversity and strong community involvement.
3. Kern Medical Center – Transitional Year
Strategically positioned in California’s Central Valley, this transitional year program aims to address regional healthcare shortages. Expect solid exposure to emergency medicine, internal medicine, and critical care.
4. Florida State University College of Medicine – Transitional Year
Florida State’s commitment to primary care education is well-known. Its new transitional year program emphasizes a patient-centered model and provides strong mentoring for future specialists.
5. BayCare Health System (St. Joseph’s Hospital) – Transitional Year
This program is hospital-based with access to state-of-the-art facilities in Tampa Bay. The 2026 transitional year curriculum includes rotations across various specialties, preparing graduates for advanced training with confidence.
6. TidalHealth – Transitional Year
Based in Maryland, TidalHealth’s program is designed for flexibility and exposure to high-acuity cases. It’s a strong option for candidates seeking a more personalized, smaller cohort experience.
7. McLaren Health Care Corporation – Transitional Year
This Michigan-based system provides a solid academic foundation combined with community-based clinical practice. It’s one of the new residency programs in 2026 that bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world patient care.
How to Use This Information for a Stronger Match Strategy
Knowing where new residency programs are launching in 2026 gives you a strategic advantage. Here are three ways to leverage this information:
- Less Competition: Since these programs are new, they may not yet be on the radar for many applicants, increasing your chance of getting an interview.
- Be a Pioneer: Join the inaugural class and help shape the culture and legacy of a new residency program.
- Geographic Advantage: If you’re targeting specific states like Florida, California, or Michigan, these 2026 new residency programs expand your local options.
FAQ
When do the new residency programs for 2026 start?
The newly accredited residency programs for the 2026 Match will begin on July 1, 2026. This marks the official start of the 2026–2027 academic year, and selected applicants will join these programs as part of their first or early incoming class.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook New Residency Programs in 2026
The ACGME’s latest accreditations for the academic year 2025–2026 bring exciting opportunities for medical graduates. Whether your interest lies in pediatrics or you’re seeking a transitional year before advancing into a specialty, the new residency programs for 2026 listed above offer pathways worth exploring.
Adding these programs to your ERAS application strategy could be the difference between a match and a missed opportunity. As the competition intensifies, your adaptability and willingness to look beyond the “big name” institutions can significantly boost your chances.
Stay Informed and Stay Ahead
Bookmark this post and check back for updates as more new residency programs for 2026 continue to receive accreditation. If you’re preparing for the match, explore every possible opportunity—and let these new programs be part of your journey.
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