Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine Midwestern University (CCOMMU) Introduction and Academics

Introduction

The Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine originally opened in 1900. It later merged with another osteopathic school, and in 1970 it assumed its present name. The school later changed its name again by adding Midwestern University when it expanded beyond the osteopathic program.

The basic sciences are taught on the 103-acre Downers Grove Campus in a western suburb of Chicago. In 1995, the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine was founded as a part of Midwestern University. The university also houses a College of Pharmacy and a College of Health Sciences.

Academics

The four year program of osteopathy taught at the school is on the leading edge of its field. The school has developed and continues to refine a curriculum that educates students first in the basic medical arts and sciences, then builds on that knowledge with experience.

Students spend their first 2 years completing a rigorous basic science curriculum and preparing for their clinical studies. During their third and fourth years, students rotate through a variety of clinical departments accruing an impressive 92 weeks of direct patient care experience.

Affiliated Teaching Hospitals

Students rotate through numerous hospitals throughout the Chicago area. This diversity of experience allows them to work with people of many cultures and socio-economic conditions—invaluable experience for an urban osteopath.

Unique Programs

Mini Medical School is a month-long medical education program open to anyone in the community who would like to learn more about health issues. Examples of topics covered include Biopsychosocial Issues in Anxiety and Depression and The Beauty of the Human Heart—An Anatomist’s Point of View.

Admissions

Completion of a minimum of 3 years of college (degree preferred), at least a B average, and the MCAT are necessary. The basic premedical science courses are required. A total of 165 students are admitted each September. Approximately one half of the class comes from Illinois.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to students in the forms of loans, grants, and scholarships. The financial aid department at the college is available during regular business hours to discuss strategies and aids for paying for school.

Students

Osteopath students take part in student life at Midwestern University, including the Student Government Association. They also have many organizations unique to osteopathy, including the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, the American College of Osteopathic Family Practitioners, the Gold Humanism Honor Society, and the International Health Club.

There are residence halls for students on campus plus apartments for married students. Standard accommodations include semi-private bathrooms, wireless internet, DirecTV, and air conditioning. There are kitchenettes, study rooms, and laundry rooms on every floor.

Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine Midwestern University