The University of Manitoba is accepting 110 students into its Faculty of Medicine this year.

That is the largest class of doctors in training that they've ever had.

In 1999 there were just 70 physician training seats at the university.

Health Minister Theresa Oswald says the increase is part of a provincial strategy to fill the doctor shortage in Manitoba.

"Training more front-line health professionals here in Manitoba is the best investment we can make as a government to ensure Manitobans have access to the care they need," Oswald said.

This is the third consecutive year the University of Manitoba has accepted100 students or more.

In April the province also announced a $4 million plan to keep doctors who graduate in the province practicing here.