Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program (POMP)

The goal of the Pre-Osteopathic Program at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) 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 that successfully complete all program requirements will receive a guaranteed acceptance to WVSOM.

This program will ensure that students will have the opportunity to network with medical students, medical professionals, provide/assist with shadowing opportunities, while at the same time improving their knowledge of osteopathic medicine.  

The Pre-Osteopathic program is a partnership established between WVSOM and affiliate undergraduate institutions. The program is designed for undergraduate students who have an interest in osteopathic medicine and plan to enter osteopathic medical school.  

Students must meet the following requirements in order to be eligible for the program:

  • Currently enrolled in one of our affiliate schools 
    • Bethany College
    • Bluefield State University
    • Concord University
    • Davis and Elkins College
    • Fairmont State University
    • Frostburg State University
    • Glenville State University
    • Shepherd University
    • University of Charleston
    • Waynesburg University
    • West Liberty University
    • West Virginia State University
    • West Virginia University Institute of Technology
    • West Virginia Wesleyan College
  • A college sophomore
  • A Science Grade Point average of 3.4 or higher
  • Must be a US resident or permanent citizen
  •  Students must have completed the following course by time of application:
    • 8 hrs. of Biology with Labs
    • 8 hrs. of General Chemistry with Labs

Why WVSOM?

WVSOM is one of the best primary medical schools in the United States. U.S. News & World Report has ranked WVSOM as one of the nation’s top medical schools for 24 consecutive years. WVSOM is No. 1 in the nation among all medical schools graduating physicians who practice in rural areas according to Academic Medicine.

Still not sure, well WVSOM has excellent medical teaching facilities. The classrooms are state-of–the art and more than 25 human patient simulators. Moreover, WVSOM is located in one of the most beautiful regions of West Virginia. Located in southern West Virginia, we are close to some of the best white water rafting, skiing, spelunking, biking, hiking, camping, and rock climbing in the state of West Virginia. So why not?

When is the Application Deadline for the Pre-Osteopathic program? 

Applicants are asked to apply during the spring of their sophomore year. Applications are due by June 30th of each year. Interviews will occur by the end of July. Students are expected to demonstrate empathy, compassion, maturity and a commitment to life-long learning and maintain a GPA of 3.4 or higher. 

What are the requirements within the Pre-Osteopathic Program? 

  • Submit an AACOMAS application prior to beginning senior year. 
  • Maintain a 3.4 science GPA. 
  • Achieve a MCAT score of 500 or better by senior year.
  • Shadow a D.O. for 25 hours or more. 
  • Complete 25 hours or more of volunteer/health care experience.
  • Submit two required letters of recommendation;
    • Physician letter from M.D. or D.O (non-family member). A letter from an osteopathic physician is strongly recommended.
    • Basic Science Faculty Member who has taught you, Pre-Med Advisor, or Pre-Med Advisory Committee.  
  • Successfully complete all WVSOM prerequisite coursework.  
    • A listing of prerequisites can be found here. 

So what’s in it for you? 

  • Students will receive a guaranteed acceptance to WVSOM, pending successful completion of their medical interview.
  • Be assigned a faculty mentor to monitor their progress and to answer their questions.  
  • Receive an expedited application review to WVSOM and an early admission interview.  
  • Opportunity to meet with WVSOM alumni, students, and faculty. 
  • Participate in a series of lectures including but not limited to the history of osteopathic medicine.