At Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, your education and preparation for clinical rotations is our main emphasis. You have the opportunity to learn in a high-quality and supportive environment. During the first year, students begin to develop hands-on skills and communication techniques that distinguish them with both patients and fellow professionals. Because of our students’ early introduction to clinical and interpersonal skills, they begin rotations with a high level of competence and confidence to practice the art and science of medicine.
D.O. Program Highlights
-
Develop Independent, Ground-Breaking Research Projects
DMU’s students and faculty advance medical research, offering numerous opportunities to engage in diverse research projects or initiate your own. Programs such as the Mentored Student Research Program, Technology Development Fellowship, Mentored Research Elective Course and Fourth Year Research Elective Rotations provide structured, hands-on research experiences across various medical fields.
The D.O. program works closely with the DMU’s research department to expand existing research opportunities — and identify new ones — ensuring you can advance your research skills, publish findings and achieve recognition through awards, fellowships and scholarships.
-
Train and Practice in State-of-the-Art Labs
While studying for your osteopathic medicine degree at DMU, you will learn in a variety of labs and other settings with cutting-edge technology and tools, including the Cadaver Dissection/Anatomy Labs, the Surgical and Medical Skills Lab and Simulation Center.
-
Collaborate With Fellow Medical Students
At DMU you will build collaborative relationships with faculty and peers. Students work together on research projects, elective course work, community events, club activities and Interprofessional Education experiences.
-
Receive Support and Guidance When You Need It
Throughout the four-year D.O. program, you will receive academic and career development support. DMU’s residency placement curriculum aims to guide you toward a specialty of your choice, with one of the highest placement rates in the country.
-
Learn Osteopathic Manual Medicine
DMU’s OMM program is second to none. You will engage in a longitudinal curriculum across all four years of training that can be supplemented with OMM electives and fellowships.
-
Practice Your Physical Diagnosis Skills
Develop essential clinical skills in our state-of-the-art Simulation Center, working extensively with simulated and standardized patients who are trained to bring real-life scenarios to life. Through their valuable feedback, you’ll gain a patient-centered perspective, enhancing your proficiency in physical diagnosis and preparing you for real-world care.
-
Enrich Your Education With Electives and Extracurricular Activities
At DMU, you can tailor your education to match your passions and career goals. Our diverse selection of electives and extracurricular activities — from the Healthy Cooking Elective in our state-of-the-art teaching kitchen to unique opportunities offered through the Diversity and Multicultural Affairs Office — empowers you to explore new perspectives and broaden your skills.
-
Gain Expertise Through Quality Clinical Rotations
In your third and fourth years at DMU, you’ll engage in hands-on clinical training through rotations at academic institutions or community-based programs. These rotations cover key areas such as obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, psychiatry, emergency medicine, family medicine, internal medicine and pediatrics. During your fourth year, you’ll explore diverse specialty opportunities, helping you confidently choose your path for residency.
-
Set Yourself Up for Success on National Board Exams
For the past several years, DMU students have had pass rates higher than the national average on all COMLEX levels. Our rigorous curriculum and dedicated support prepare you to excel and confidently reach your professional goals.
-
Get Involved Through Student Clubs
Go beyond the classroom with DMU’s wide array of student involvement opportunities.
-
Student Support Resources to Help You Thrive
At DMU, you will benefit from comprehensive support services designed to foster academic success and personal well-being. Access resources including peer tutors, the Student Counseling Center and academic counseling at the Center for Educational Enhancement.
-
Find Your Match
Our D.O. students are highly recruited into a wide variety of graduate medical programs throughout the country.
-
Have the Option To Become an OMM Fellow
As a D.O. student, you can apply for a one-year OMM fellowship at DMU during the second year of the D.O. program.
-
Pursue Two Degrees at Once With Dual Degree Opportunities
Students can develop their leadership skills, understand health care needs and enhance their careers with a dual degree leading to a Master of Public Health, Master of Health Care Administration, Master of Science in Anatomy, Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences or Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences.
-
Participate in an International Rotation
You can participate in international rotations and short-term trips through our Global Health Department.