Introduction
The demand for skilled, compassionate physicians is growing — and medical schools are evolving to meet that need. Rowan University’s Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (Rowan-Virtua SOM) is at the forefront, offering innovative programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and a mission-driven approach to training the next generation of doctors.
Whether you’re a high school senior dreaming of a medical career or a college graduate ready to take the next step, Rowan-Virtua SOM provides the education, resources, and clinical experience to help you succeed in today’s competitive healthcare landscape.
H2: About Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine
Rowan-Virtua SOM is part of the Virtua Health College of Medicine & Life Sciences at Rowan University. Its mission is to:
- Develop clinically skilled, compassionate, and culturally competent physicians
- Advance research and innovation to address today’s medical challenges
- Provide patient-centered care with a focus on primary and community health
The school is known for its osteopathic philosophy, which emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care — treating the whole person, not just the symptoms.
H2: Academic Programs for Future Physicians
H3: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) Program
The flagship DO program offers two distinct learning tracks to match different learning styles:
- Synergistic Guided Learning (SGL) – Combines lectures, labs, and small-group discussions.
- Problem-Based Learning (PBL) – Focuses on case-based, self-directed learning.
Core curriculum includes:
- Anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry
- Clinical skills and patient interaction from year one
- Osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) training
- Rotations in primary care, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, and more
H3: Accelerated 3+4 Medical Degree Programs
For exceptional high school students, Rowan offers 7-year (3+4) accelerated pathways:
- Complete three years of undergraduate study at Rowan
- Transition directly into Rowan-Virtua SOM for four years of medical school
- Earn both a Bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) in less time
H3: Graduate Medical Education (Residencies & Fellowships)
Rowan-Virtua SOM offers residency and fellowship programs in:
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine
- Transitional Year Programs
These programs prepare graduates for board certification and specialized practice.
H2: World-Class Facilities
Rowan-Virtua SOM operates two campuses — Stratford and Sewell — each equipped with advanced learning environments.
Key facilities include:
- Clinical Skills & Simulation Center – Realistic patient care scenarios using high-fidelity mannequins and standardized patients.
- Anatomy Labs – Modern dissection labs for hands-on learning.
- OMM Labs – Dedicated spaces for osteopathic manipulative medicine training.
- Research Laboratories – Focused on neuroscience, molecular biology, and translational medicine.
- Health Sciences Library – Extensive medical resources, journals, and study spaces.
H2: Research & Innovation Opportunities
Rowan-Virtua SOM is deeply committed to advancing medical science. Students can participate in:
- Basic science research in cell biology, neuroscience, and molecular medicine
- Clinical trials in partnership with healthcare providers
- Community health studies addressing underserved populations
- Interdisciplinary projects with Rowan’s School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences
H2: Admissions – How to Get In
H3: DO Program Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Prerequisite courses: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English
- MCAT scores (competitive range varies annually)
- Letters of recommendation (including one from a physician, preferably a DO)
- Personal statement outlining motivation for osteopathic medicine
Applications are submitted through AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service).
H3: 3+4 Accelerated Program Requirements
- Open to incoming first-year undergraduates
- Strong high school GPA and SAT/ACT scores
- Commitment to pursuing osteopathic medicine
- Early application to Rowan’s Office of Pre-Health Programs
H2: Student Life & Support Services
Rowan-Virtua SOM fosters a supportive, collaborative environment. Students benefit from:
- Mentorship programs pairing first-year students with upperclassmen
- Student organizations like the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA)
- Wellness initiatives promoting mental and physical health
- Career services for residency preparation and job placement
H2: Career Outlook for Rowan-Virtua SOM Graduates
Graduates enter diverse fields, including:
- Primary care (family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics)
- Specialty care (neurology, cardiology, orthopedics)
- Academic medicine and research
- Public health and community medicine
With the growing demand for physicians, especially in underserved areas, Rowan-Virtua SOM alumni are well-positioned for impactful careers.
H2: Why Choose Rowan-Virtua SOM?
Key advantages:
- Holistic osteopathic approach to patient care
- Flexible learning tracks to suit different study styles
- Strong community health focus
- Cutting-edge facilities and research opportunities
- Accelerated pathways for motivated students
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Rowan University’s Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine offers more than just a medical degree — it provides a comprehensive, hands-on education that prepares future doctors to lead with skill, compassion, and innovation.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward your medical career, explore Rowan-Virtua SOM’s programs, visit the campus, and connect with admissions advisors.
👩⚕️ Ready to start your journey? Learn more at the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine official site and take the first step toward becoming the physician you’ve always dreamed of being.