Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine: A Comprehensive Overview

Des Moines University (DMU) is a private medical school located in West Des Moines, Iowa. Founded in 1898, it holds the distinction of being the second oldest osteopathic medical school and the fifteenth largest medical school in the United States. DMU comprises three colleges offering 10 graduate degrees. The university is committed to developing distinctive health professionals dedicated to health promotion, the discovery of knowledge, and service to the community.

A Legacy of Excellence

Originally established as the Dr. S.S. Still College and Infirmary of Osteopathy & Surgery in downtown Des Moines, the institution has undergone several name changes throughout its history. It was renamed Still College in 1905, then Des Moines Still College of Osteopathy and Surgery in the 1940s. In 1958, it became the College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery. The name University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences was adopted in 1980, before finally becoming Des Moines University on September 18, 1999.

DMU's legacy includes several milestones. In 1963, the first satellite clinic was established, followed by the Dietz Diagnostic Center in 1971. The College of Health Sciences introduced the physician assistant program in 1981 and the physical therapy program in 1988. In 1986, the 10-story DMU Clinic opened on campus.

Leadership and Vision

Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., serves as the President of Des Moines University. Throughout its history, DMU has been guided by visionary leaders, including former Iowa Governor Terry E. Branstad, who served as president before retiring in 2009. DMU's commitment to innovation is evident in its partnerships, such as becoming the first medical school to partner with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to offer its provider training program to D.O. students in 2018.

Academic Programs

DMU's College of Osteopathic Medicine focuses on the well-being of the entire person, not just their symptoms, illnesses, or injuries. The university offers a range of graduate programs, including:

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Master of Science in Anatomy
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (M.S.B.S.)
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Master of Public Health (MPH)

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program within the College of Health Sciences holds accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. The Master's degree program in physician assistant studies is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant. The Master's degree program in health care administration is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education and is the only M.H.A. program selected to partner with the American Osteopathic Association.

DMU's four graduate programs within the College of Osteopathic Medicine maintain small student-to-faculty ratios, fostering a close-knit learning environment. For instance, the master’s in biomedical sciences degree has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1. With more than 30 faculty members across multiple disciplines, DMU College of Osteopathic Medicine faculty bring their expansive academic, health care, and research expertise into the classroom.

Admissions

DMU seeks to enroll candidates who demonstrate the greatest potential for success in providing respectful and compassionate care as a future physician. Applicants should have successfully completed or be working toward successful completion of a bachelor’s degree (any major is acceptable) and all required coursework. Required coursework includes eight semester hours (with lab) each in biology, chemistry, and physics (or four hours of physics and a statistics course); four hours of organic chemistry; and three semester hours of biochemistry. In addition, applicants must have taken six semester hours of English.

The MCAT should be taken for the first time no later than September. Successful applicants will have extensive exposure to the medical field in a role that involves direct patient contact. DMU is participating in the use of the Association of American Medical Colleges Professional Readiness Exam (AAMC PREviewTM). An interview will explore the applicant’s personal characteristics (integrity, professionalism, compassion, work ethic, etc.) as well as the motivation required to pursue a career in medicine.

DMU-COM operates under a rolling admission policy; thus, timely submission of the AACOMAS application and supporting materials is to the candidate’s advantage. DMU operates on rolling admission and generally schedules interviews from August to March of the application year.

Read also: Learn about DMACC

Campus and Facilities

DMU's next-generation campus in West Des Moines provides students with an unparalleled learning experience, integrating team-based learning, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced technology. It sets a new standard in medical education. Students thrive within adaptable learning spaces, including state-of-the-art clinical labs, a research lab, an anatomy lab, and a task training lab. DMU’s world-class simulation center provides simulated health care environments mirroring those found in modern medical facilities and is accredited by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. In 2024, DMU earned the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver certification for its state-of-the-art campus. The LEED achievement underscores DMU's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship in its campus facilities.

Campus life at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences encourages students to immerse themselves in learning while fostering opportunities to unwind and recharge. Whether grabbing a latte or a bite to eat at Summerfield’s Café, taking a break in one of the meditation rooms, or participating in various activities, campus life at DMU is enriching. With more than 50 clubs, student organizations, honorary societies, interfaith groups, service learning, and student government associations, there’s something for everyone to get involved in and develop their leadership skills.

DMU’s state-of-the-art Wellness Center provides convenient access to exercise machines, free weights, and group fitness classes led by expert instructors. Plus, DMU’s intramural teams compete for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball championships, fostering a sense of community and healthy competition.

The university’s 88-acre campus offers expansive spaces where students can enjoy the beauty of nature, play soccer by a scenic pond, take a power walk on the extensive trail system through campus, or unwind and connect with friends at designated spots like the Council Ring. DMU's meditation rooms are inclusive for those seeking moments of reflection and relaxation and promote physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. Equipped with massage chairs and featuring feet washing stations to accommodate diverse faith practices, the rooms are open to all students. DMU’s commitment to student wellness extends to primary care services available through DMU’s University Health Clinic, conveniently located on campus. In addition, the Student Counseling Center provides a range of supportive services to assist students in their personal and academic journeys.

Research and Global Health

DMU faculty members are leading research efforts of broad medical impact. Expert researchers and scholars provide many opportunities for students to get involved in their research efforts or launch their own research projects. DMU offers extensive research opportunities and international medicine programs. Opportunities range from short service trips to extended-length international clerkships for credit in the third and fourth years. Numerous electives offered at DMU support a track or emphasis in global health. DMU also is home to several student clubs dedicated to addressing global health issues.

Read also: Comprehensive DMU Clinic Guide

Dual Degree Programs

DMU offers several dual degree programs to enhance students' career prospects:

DO/MHA: The Master of Health Care Administration program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding for vital leadership roles in hospitals, healthcare systems, and healthcare provider organizations. A tuition discount is provided to AOA members for MHA courses.
DO/MPH: The Master of Public Health program provides an opportunity for health professionals and health profession students to further develop their skills to lead community efforts in improving the health of populations.
DO/MS: The Master of Science in Anatomy program provides advanced training in anatomy and is designed to prepare students for a professional career in academic teaching or research.

Accreditation

Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA).

DMU Clinic

The Des Moines University Clinic serves thousands of patients each year. Clinicians are more than just health care and medical providers-they’re researchers, mentors, and thought leaders who are dedicated to providing expert care to patients and their families. Students studying in clinical programs train alongside health care leaders in the DMU Clinic.

Commitment to Primary Care

U.S. News and World Report’s Best Grad Schools report recognized DMU for having the most graduates working in primary care and serving people in medically needy and rural areas.

A Welcoming Environment

DMU prides itself on its welcoming environment. Students feel supported and encouraged to focus on personal growth rather than competition.

Alumni Network

Des Moines University has over 9,000 alumni in virtually every state in the nation. Graduates may enter residency programs in any specialty or subspecialty area.

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