About Des Moines University

One University — Since 1898

We share a singular mission to develop distinctive health professionals committed to health promotion, the discovery of knowledge and service to the community.

Founded in 1898, Des Moines University is a premier medical and health sciences institution comprising three colleges offering 10 graduate degrees. The programs share a collective strength—a collaborative campus community where students and faculty come together in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

Des Moines University creates opportunities by building on its long legacy of providing outstanding education to the nation’s health care professionals and excellent patient care in the DMU Clinic.

Our strong reputation in medicine and health sciences fields is built on the commitment of our faculty who are passionate about training tomorrow's leaders with unmatched dedication and uncompromised intention. Our graduates enter the profession with confidence, compassion, and the determination to improve the lives of others on a daily basis.

Explore Our Campus

DMU quick facts

The University is a community of diverse and talented people. Some key indicators tell the story of the University's exceptional quality.

  • Big Enough To Offer Powerful Amenities, But Small Enough to Focus On Excellence

    DMU is the largest medical school in Iowa — and among the top 25 largest accredited schools in the nation (for D.O.s or M.D.s) — with more than 880 students in the osteopathic medical program. Year-to-year, the university enrolls over 1,500 students across all 10 programs.

  • We Have a Rich History of Equality and Diversity

    The very first medical class in 1898 included both sexes and today 50% of the student body are women. Today, one of our core values is embracing and committing to diversity and inclusivity for all of our students, faculty and staff.

  • We Help Make Your Dreams a Reality With Robust Scholarship Opportunities

    Our students regularly receive more than $5.5 million in scholarship funds.

  • Our Alumni Network Spans the Country — And the Globe

    DMU has an alumni network of over 16,000 with more than 3,100 located in Iowa.

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