The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) and West Virginia State University (WVSU) have entered into a memorandum of understanding to better prepare WVSU students who are interested in pursuing a career in the field of osteopathic medicine.
The agreement, signed Sept. 13 by WVSOM President James W. Nemitz, Ph.D., and WVSU President Ericke S. Cage, will provide skills and credentials necessary for admission to and success in osteopathic medical school through the WVSOM Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program.
“Partnerships like this are a win-win not only for both of our institutions but more importantly for our students by creating a well-defined pathway for those who are interested in pursuing a career in osteopathic medicine,” Cage said. “These types of relationships are critical to help produce the trained professionals that the medical field needs in West Virginia and nationwide, and I thank President Nemitz for making this opportunity available to our students.”
“This partnership will identify students who are driven to succeed and who have an early interest in osteopathic medicine, allowing WVSOM to provide mentorship and guidance for successfully navigating the path to medical school,” Nemitz said. “We are thrilled to be working with the West Virginia State University to find students who excel in the classroom and who will eventually excel in providing patient care to West Virginians.”
The goal of WVSOM’s Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program is to promote osteopathic medicine, increase the number of excellent applicants, support aspiring osteopathic physicians at all levels of education and continue the proud legacy of osteopathic medicine. Students who successfully complete all program requirements will receive guaranteed acceptance to WVSOM.
This program will ensure that students will have the opportunity to network with medical students, medical professionals, and assist with shadowing opportunities, while at the same time improving their knowledge of osteopathic medicine.
The Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program is a partnership established between WVSOM and affiliated institutions. The program is designed for undergraduate students who have an interest in osteopathic medicine and plan to enter osteopathic medical school.
For more information on the program, visit www.wvsom.edu/admissions/pomp.