Online applications for 2008 entry into the University of Newcastle and the University of New England's Joint Medical Program are now open.

Commencing in semester one next year, the Joint Medical Program is a five year course which will prepare students to practise in urban, regional, rural and remote Australia.

Head of the University of Newcastle's School of Medicine and Public Health, Professor Michael Hensley, said the Joint Medical Program was an Australian first.

"The Joint Medical Program is a unique program delivered by the University of Newcastle and the University of New England in partnership with Hunter New England Health," Professor Hensley said.

"The program capitalises on the University of Newcastle's internationally recognised and respected medical program, and the University of New England's strong rural standing and expertise in delivering nursing, health and science programs.

"The program also provides a strong base for post-graduate training and research in urban, regional, rural and remote medicine."

The Joint Medical Program offers 100 Commonwealth Supported Places at the University of Newcastle, and 60 at the University of New England.

Details of the application process, information about entry requirements and selection, and the online application form are available at www.newcastle.edu.au/jmp.

More information is also available by calling the University of Newcastle's Enquiry Centre on 02 4921 5000 or the University of New England's Student Centre on 1800 818 865.

Applications close on 28 September 2007.