Program Overview

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Introduction to the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine

The University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM) is a faith-based Catholic institution that welcomes persons of diverse backgrounds. The school offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) program, as well as other graduate programs.

Program Overview

The UIWSOM four-year curriculum is divided into two phases that include community engagement and early clinical experience activities. The six threads woven throughout the curriculum include:

• Mental Health and Wellness
• Spirituality
• Social Accountability, Service and Scholarship
• Student Success, Mentoring and Advising
• Board Preparation
• Evidence-based Medicine

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must submit their application through the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS). The application cycle typically opens in May and closes in April of the following year. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, MCAT scores, and three letters of recommendation.

Prerequisites

Applicants must complete the required prerequisites, which include:

• Biology with lab (8 semester hours)
• Chemistry with lab (8 semester hours)
• Organic Chemistry with lab (8 semester hours)
• Physics with lab (8 semester hours)
• Biochemistry (3 semester hours)
• Mathematics (6 semester hours)
• English (6 semester hours)

GPA and MCAT Requirements

While there is no minimum GPA or MCAT score required for admission, the school considers applicants holistically, taking into account their overall academic performance and MCAT scores. The average GPA and MCAT scores of entering students are around 3.6 and 504, respectively.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The tuition and fees for the UIWSOM program are as follows:

• Resident tuition: $62,400
• Resident fees: $2,300
• Non-Resident tuition: $62,400
• Non-Resident fees: $2,300
• Supplemental Application Fee: $50
• Health Insurance: $5,270
• Estimated Room, Board, Books and Living Costs: $30,744 per year

Admitted students can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other required documentation.

Accreditation

The University of the Incarnate Word is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The UIWSOM is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA) to offer the academic program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree.

Osteopathic Medicine

Osteopathic medicine is a parallel branch of American medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care. Osteopathic physicians (D.O.s) receive training in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) and are fully licensed to practice medicine, prescribe medications, and perform surgery.

Philosophy

The philosophy of osteopathic medicine is centered on the concept of treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of a disease. Osteopathic physicians are trained to consider the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a patient's health.

Approach

The osteopathic approach to medicine emphasizes the use of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) to diagnose and treat patients. OMT is a hands-on technique that helps to alleviate pain, restore motion, and support the body's natural functions.

International Students and Foreign Coursework

The UIWSOM does not currently admit international students with F-1 or J-1 visas. However, the school does consider applications from U.S. citizens who have taken courses overseas. Foreign coursework must be evaluated by a U.S. NACES approved member evaluation company.

Admission Interviews

Competitive applicants will be invited to participate in a faculty interview, either in-person or virtually. The interview is an opportunity for the applicant to learn more about the program and for the faculty to assess the applicant's qualifications and fit with the school's mission and values.

Conclusion

The University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine offers a comprehensive program in osteopathic medicine that emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care. The school is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA) and offers a competitive tuition rate. Applicants must submit their application through AACOMAS and meet the required prerequisites, GPA, and MCAT requirements.