Chicago College Of Osteopathic Medicine At Midwestern University
If you're considering pursuing a career in the field of medicine, you might be interested in learning more about the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM) at Midwestern University. Founded in 1900, CCOM is one of the oldest osteopathic medical schools in the United States. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive overview of CCOM, including its history, curriculum, admissions process, and more.
A Brief History of CCOM
As we mentioned earlier, CCOM was founded in 1900 by Dr. Martin Littleton, a physician from Kirksville, Missouri, who was a follower of Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathic medicine. The school was originally called the Chicago College of Osteopathy, but its name was changed to the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1913.
Over the years, CCOM has grown and expanded, and it is now one of the largest osteopathic medical schools in the country. In addition to its main campus in Downers Grove, Illinois, CCOM also has a campus in Glendale, Arizona.
The Curriculum at CCOM
CCOM offers a four-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program that is designed to prepare students for careers as primary care physicians. The curriculum is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: The first two years of the program focus on classroom instruction in the basic sciences, such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and microbiology. Students also learn about the osteopathic principles and practices that are central to the practice of osteopathic medicine.
- Phase 2: The final two years of the program are focused on clinical training, during which students work with patients under the supervision of licensed physicians. Students rotate through a variety of clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices, to gain exposure to different areas of medicine.
CCOM also offers several dual-degree programs, including a DO/MS in Biomedical Sciences, a DO/MPH in Public Health, and a DO/MBA in Business Administration. These programs allow students to earn two degrees in less time than it would take to earn them separately.
Admissions Process
Admission to CCOM is competitive, and the school receives thousands of applications each year. To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Completion of the required prerequisite courses in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and physics
- Submission of MCAT scores
Applicants must also submit letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume or CV detailing their academic and professional background.
Once an application is submitted, it is reviewed by the CCOM admissions committee, which evaluates each applicant based on their academic record, MCAT scores, personal statement, and other factors. The most qualified applicants are then invited to interview with members of the admissions committee.
Campus Life at CCOM
CCOM offers a vibrant campus community, with a variety of student organizations, clubs, and events. Students can get involved in groups such as the Student Government Association, the American Osteopathic Association Student Chapter, and the Global Health Initiative.
CCOM also has a state-of-the-art simulation center, where students can practice their clinical skills on high-tech mannequins that simulate real-life medical scenarios. The school also has a variety of research opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing research in the field of osteopathic medicine.
Conclusion
If you're interested in pursuing a career in medicine, the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University is definitely worth considering. With a long history of excellence in osteopathic medical education, a comprehensive curriculum, and a vibrant campus community, CCOM offers students the tools and resources they need to succeed in this challenging and rewarding field.