College Of Health Sciences

Prepare To Become A Health Care Expert

A Degree From DMU’s College of Health Sciences Will Help You Reach Your Goals

We need leaders who can reimagine medicine and produce better health outcomes for everyone.

At Des Moines University’s College of Health Sciences, we are dedicated to equipping the next generation of healthcare professionals with the tools and techniques to address the challenges facing people all around the world. You can choose to pursue a future as a health care administrator, physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician assistant, public health expert or many other career paths that are ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s 100 Best Jobs.

With a degree from DMU and a leading college of health science, you will be well-positioned to practice and take charge in nearly any medical setting.

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Explore DMU’s College of Health Sciences

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Mission and Values

The College of Health Sciences has a mission to advance health and wellbeing of society by cultivating exemplary health professionals and leaders through innovative, evidence-based and interprofessional education.

In addition, our values of Accountability, Collaboration, Honesty, Inclusiveness and Wellness support DMU’s mission.

College of Health Sciences Highlights

As a health science college, it is DMU’s mission to advance the health and well-being of society. No matter which College of Health Sciences program you choose, you can expect to:

OTD students and faculty discuss course material in the plinth lab.

State of the Art Facilities and Technology

In 2023, DMU relocated to an 88-acre campus in West Des Moines, Iowa, featuring technology-rich, flexible education spaces that support innovative teaching methods and connect faculty and students across our programs. Our research facilities include a vibrant and spacious open laboratory, fostering collaboration and innovation.

A DPT faculty member demonstrates how to secure a gait belt around a student while other students observe and practice in a physical therapy lab.

Learn From Experts

Across multiple disciplines, CHS faculty bring broad professional backgrounds and decades of experience as clinicians and educators. Our programs’ low student-to-faculty ratios mean you will have unfettered access to these accomplished thought leaders. You will also be mentored and receive career advising — whether studying on campus or online.

A DMU PA student in black scrubs works alongside a DMU alum serving as a preceptor as they help a patient adjust a wrist brace during an exam‑room encounter.

Health Profession Focused

DMU’s College of Health Sciences specializes in preparing future health professionals for successful careers. Through a rigorous education and board pass rates above national averages, you’ll be ready to make an impact as a clinician, public health professional or health care leader.

Two DMU students assist a runner with stretches at the DMU Des Moines Marathon recovery zone.

Experiential Learning Networks

Through partnerships with hundreds of community organizations, CHS provides hands-on learning across a range of specialty areas. Backed by more than 125 years of excellence in health sciences education, you’ll learn from experienced health care professionals and industry leaders who are shaping the future of care.

Latest News

Occupational therapy students and an instructor using crutches and adaptive equipment in a clinical lab setting to practice mobility techniques.

Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program Adds Concentrations

The Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at DMU has added four concentration areas for students: general practice, pediatrics, rehabilitation and wellness.

Members of the winning Innovation Tank team hold a ceremonial $8,000 first-place prize check during the 2026 competition as confetti falls around them.

Innovation Tank Ignites Big Ideas

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, DMU hosted its second annual Innovation Tank, a competition designed to spark creative thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling real-world health care challenges.

Professional portrait collage featuring Elitsa Ananieva-Stoyanova, LiLian Yuan and Shane McClinton displayed side by side.

DMU Office of Research Announces Directors for New Centers

The Office of Research at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has launched three new research centers, growing opportunities for interdisciplinary research and impact, and named directors for two of them.