Institutional Policy: DO-12

DO 12-1. Authority

W. Va. Code § 18B-1-6

DO 12-2. Policy

2.1 The degree of Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine may be conferred on a candidate who:

2.1.1

is at least 21 years of age;

2.1.2

has been in residence for four (4) years at an accredited College of Osteopathic Medicine or equivalent, the last two (2) of which must be at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine;

2.1.3

has successfully completed all academic preclinical and clinical work;

2.1.4

has demonstrated ethical, personal, and professional qualities deemed necessary for the continued successful study and practice of Osteopathic Medicine;

2.1.5

has satisfactorily discharged all financial obligations to the school;

2.1.6

has passed COMLEX USA Level 2-CE of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME)--(Institutional Policy DO-14);

2.1.7

has demonstrated competence in the fundamental clinical skills and related physician competency domains for osteopathic medical care of patients as required to enter into supervised graduate medical education settings and to continue lifelong learning;

2.1.8

has satisfactorily completed all requirements for graduation as attested to by the Student Promotions Committee, has been recommended by vote of the faculty, and approved by the WVSOM Board of Governors;

2.1.9

attends in person the ceremony at which the degree is to be conferred.  Under extenuating circumstances, the requirement to personally attend the ceremony may be waived by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean or President;

2.1.10

has participated in all required exit interviews and completed all required surveys; and

2.1.11

has completed all of the requirements set forth in this policy within six years of matriculation, inclusive of all time spent on any leave(s) of absence.

2.2

Students who will complete the requirements for graduation after May 31 and before December 31 of a calendar year, and have passed all Level 1 and 2 COMLEX exams at least 30 days prior to the May commencement ceremony, may submit a written request to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean no less than 30 days in advance of commencement to participate in the graduation activities, including commencement with the class with which they have been associated.  No participation will be allowed unless approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean.