Florida State University Panama City has announced the launch of a new biomedical sciences degree program, set to begin in fall 2026. The Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) program is designed to prepare students for various careers in health care, including clinical practice, management, and policy.
The initiative is a partnership with the FSU College of Medicine and aims to expand access to education focused on the clinical aspects of health care while supporting workforce development in Northwest Florida.
“This new program will serve to improve access to a high-quality education in the clinical aspects of health care — it will be an investment in future health care providers for Bay County and surrounding areas,” said FSU Panama City Dean Randy Hanna.
The IMS program will accept both first-time college students and transfer students from state and community colleges.
Dr. Alma Littles, dean of the FSU College of Medicine, stated: “FSU Panama City is a tremendous resource for the people of Northwest Florida and a great springboard for students wishing to enter the health care professions. I am delighted the College of Medicine has expanded its IMS program, which will help students achieve their goals of preparing for a rewarding career.”
Littles also noted ongoing efforts to address shortages among health care professionals throughout Florida.
Students enrolled in the IMS program will work toward a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. The curriculum includes science courses, service learning opportunities, developmental seminars, and a capstone project. The structure is intended to help students identify suitable career paths within health care and gain professional skills as well as an understanding of community health needs.
“We have been working on establishing this program for around one year,” said FSU PC Associate Dean Amy Polick. “A great deal of work was undertaken to ensure this program maintained the same quality experienced in Tallahassee, while being highly specialized and effective for Panama City students.”
Courses will be delivered in person by current faculty members along with newly recruited instructors. Graduates may pursue further study or careers in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, child welfare services, disability and elder care services, health policy roles, non-profit organizations, or research sectors.
“The options are endless,” said Tory Peek, who will serve as the program coordinator. “This degree could lead to careers in the non-profit sector, research field, community care or health policy and informatics.”
At Tuesday’s press conference announcing the program’s launch were leaders from FSU Panama City and the FSU College of Medicine alongside representatives from local hospitals and educational institutions. Students interested in pursuing the new degree also attended.
Dr. Anthony Speights, senior associate dean for IMS at FSU College of Medicine said: “We have a solid track record of student success, and I am happy we can extend the reach of the IMS program to serve even more students and improve the health care environment in Northwest Florida. Of the program’s 688 graduates, 54 have matriculated into the College of Medicine’s M.D. program and 30 into its School of Physician Assistant Practice, and many others are successfully working in other health care professions.”
Dean Hanna acknowledged faculty members Tyler Towne and Liz Foster for their contributions to developing curriculum and fostering collaboration across campuses.
“This was a team effort, and students will see that commitment when they enroll,” Hanna said.
Prospective applicants can find more information about prerequisites on either med.fsu.edu/imsdegree/home or pc.fsu.edu/ims. For direct inquiries about enrollment or details regarding the new degree offering at FSU Panama City’s campus location visit those sites or contact Tory Peek at (850) 770-2273 or jtpeek@fsu.edu.
