Why the AMA Physician Leadership Academy?
The AMA Physician Leadership Academy provides foundational leadership education for physicians who are:
- Rising in their organizations
- Expanding their leadership responsibilities
- Preparing for future leadership roles in healthcare
In just 12 months, gain actionable skills from experienced leadership faculty and physician executives covering a variety of topics such as team motivation, culture building, strategic planning and execution, budget management fundamentals and much more.
Each session delivers new skills and techniques you can immediately apply to real-world leadership challenges and daily responsibilities.
With guidance in facilitated small group sessions, you will integrate key lessons into a longitudinal Capstone Project developed throughout the year.
Format: 12-month hybrid program
Dates: Oct. 2026 – Oct. 2027. Exact dates will be posted when available.
Schedule
- In-person workshop: Nov. 13-14, 2026, at AMA Headquarters in Chicago, IL
- Monthly virtual sessions: Alternating interactive teaching and facilitated small group sessions averaging 3 hours/month.
For more information, please email [email protected].
- Who should apply?
The AMA Physician Leadership Academy is designed to provide early-to-mid-career physicians with the skills needed to advance into or grow within leadership positions such as:
- Medical directors
- Service line leaders
- Departmental vice chairs
- Associate chief medical officers
- Independent practice leaders
Health system leaders are welcome to encourage their “rising stars” to apply. Candidates can denote this nomination within the application.
- What you’ll gain
- Foundational leadership competencies for physicians – Strengthen skills in healthcare business and finance, communication, strategy development and more, establishing a confident balance of your responsibilities as both a physician and a leader.
- Real-world application – Put theory into practice with real-life case studies, examples and physician leader faculty.
- National peer network – Connect with peers and potential mentors from around the country to strengthen your career and leadership journey.
- Immediate impact – Create measurable value for your teams and organization through a translational capstone project aligned to your role.
Tuition and application
Applications open June 1, 2026, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early application is strongly encouraged. Email [email protected] for additional information.
Program fee
- AMA members: $7,295
- Non-members: $7,595
FAQs
- Who is this program designed for?
This course is intended for physicians with entry- to mid-range leadership positions, whether recently or imminently promoted into those roles. It is also relevant for those with situational leadership responsibilities and those seeking to round out their knowledge and skills in preparation for future opportunities.
- What topics will be covered?
Full session descriptions and objectives will be available when posted, but covered leadership domains include:
- Self-Management
- Maximizing Personal Productivity
- Influence and Communication
- Building and Leading Teams
- Vision Setting and Strategy
- Leading Change Management
- Systems-Based Practice and Health Care Financial Literacy
- Strategic Negotiation and Conflict Management
- Executive Presentation Skills
- Is this program open to non-AMA members?
Yes, the Leadership Academy is open to physicians who are not AMA members. However, AMA members receive a discounted program fee.
- What is the application process?
The application consists of a series of questions to learn more about your personal and professional experiences. One letter of support is requested. Because space in the cohort is limited, we seek to ensure that all participants are engaged and that expectations fit the program.
Only completed applications will be considered and they will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Once you receive notification of acceptance into the Leadership Academy, you will be prompted to submit the program fee. Your spot will be reserved once your program fee is verified.
- What is included in my program fee?
The fee covers all teaching and small group sessions and materials, including the in-person workshop event.
Please note that travel and accommodation costs are not reimbursed by the AMA.
- What is the cancellation policy?
Program fees, once paid, are non-refundable. Please review the full cancellation policy during registration checkout.
- Where is the workshop taking place?
The in-person workshop will be held at AMA Headquarters (330 N. Wabash Ave) in Chicago, IL, on Nov. 13-14, 2026. The program begins at 12:00 P.M. on Friday, Nov. 13, and concludes at 1:30 PM on Saturday, Nov. 14. Program times are subject to change. Further logistical details, including hotel recommendations, will be shared with registered participants.
