The RVU-MCOM curriculum is based on a proven systems-based integrated academic model. It emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and guides students to develop a holistic, osteopathic approach to medicine. During the preclinical years, each system is studied twice: first with an emphasis on normal form and function in OMS I, followed by an emphasis on pathophysiology and clinical reasoning in OMS II. Basic biomedical sciences are integrated with clinical sciences in a manner that reflects clinical relevance, rather than being presented as separate disciplines.
Interspersed within the system-based blocks are curricular periods dedicated to Clinical, Academic, Reflection, Enrichment, Scholarly Activity, and Integration (CARES-I). These periods allow students to step away from the structured pace of the core curriculum to apply their newly acquired knowledge to clinical scenarios and tailor their educational experiences. During CARES-I, students engage in clinical simulations, wellness activities, electives, tracks, and research.
Weekly schedules include Student Directed Learning (SDL) distributed throughout the week and Engaged Learning Sessions (ELS) held 3-4 half-days per week. Assessments are formative and summative with an emphasis on mastery of content and skill competency.
Students are introduced to clinical settings and simulation beginning in the first semester and continuing throughout the preclinical curriculum, providing early preparation for clinical practice. Early clinical exposure, simulation, and active learning in team- and small-group settings support the development of critical thinking, clinical problem-solving, and lifelong learning skills. Professionalism and ethics are emphasized throughout the curriculum.
OMS III and OMS IV students are placed at regional centers across the state and surrounding region to support continuity and coordination of clinical education within RVU’s clinical training network. The competency-based curriculum is designed to prepare students for graduate medical education, with an emphasis on training future primary care physicians.
MCOM is supported by dedicated faculty, well-established affiliations with medical centers, hospitals, and health care systems, and a structured rural medicine program, all aligned with its mission to educate excellent osteopathic physicians.