SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(KELO)- Big changes ahead for the USD Sanford School of Medicine and its students.

USD President Sheila Gestring announced Thursday morning that the first 18 months of the Doctor of Medicine program will be moving from Vermillion to Sioux Falls in two years.

The move will improve clinical opportunities for Med School Students.

Sanford Health CEO Bill Gassen says that, in turn, will be a big benefit for South Dakota residents, because many of those students will stay in the state throughout their careers.

The move will take place in the summer of 2027.