How to Get Into Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM): The Definitive Guide (2024)

Overview of the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM)

The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) is located in the scenic city of Fort Smith, Arkansas. ARCOM is a state-of-the-art educational environment committed to fostering the future of osteopathic medicine. One of the standout features of ARCOM is its focus on small-group learning, which allows for more personalized instruction and better student-teacher interaction. This educational approach is geared towards helping students not just memorize facts but also understand the clinical implications of the foundational sciences they study. By integrating science and clinical practice from the start, ARCOM equips its students with the skills they need to excel in examinations and real-world medical scenarios. This commitment to robust, integrated learning makes ARCOM a compelling choice for those looking to build a solid foundation for a career in osteopathic medicine.

Purpose of This Guide

The primary aim of this guide is to function as a comprehensive resource for individuals contemplating applying to this distinguished osteopathic medical school in Arkansas.

This guide goes beyond merely providing a general overview, going into specifics such as the ARCOM COMLEX pass rates, which are critical indicators of the program’s quality and effectiveness in preparing students for their medical careers.

Additionally, the guide furnishes detailed information about the school’s admissions process, outlining what prospective students can expect from the moment they decide to apply to the day they potentially receive their acceptance letter.

Furthermore, for those curious about the academic side, this guide also delves into the curriculum offered, giving future applicants a glimpse into the courses they will undertake and the skills they will acquire while at the institution. This guide aims to answer virtually every question a prospective student might have, making the application process as smooth as possible.

Topics Covered in this ARCOM Medical School Guide

Key Statistics
Mission Statement
Accreditation
Programs Offered and Affiliations
Special Programs
Selection Factors
Curriculum Overview
Admissions Process and Medical School Admissions Consulting
Financial Information
Facilities and Nearby Medical Resources
Student Groups and Clubs
Admission Statistics
Tips and Strategies for Admission
Additional Information and Contacts

Key Statistics About Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Student Demographics

Total Medical School Enrollment: 626
Total Male: 313
Total Female: 313
First-Year Matriculants: 144
First-Year Male Matriculants: 71
First-Year Female Matriculants: 73
Matriculants In-State: 30
Matriculants Out-of-State: 114
Self-Reported Race/Ethnicity: Varied
Majors of First-Year Matriculants: Diverse

Ethnicity Breakdown:

Asian: 25.7%
Black/African American: 2.8%
Hispanic/Latino: 10.4%
White: 52.8%
Others: 8.4%

Student Demographics

For the academic year of 2022, the total medical school enrollment was 626, equally divided between male and female students. First-year matriculants numbered 144, with a slightly higher number of females. There is a diverse mix of in-state and out-of-state students, as well as varied racial and ethnic representation.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Admissions Process and Policies During the Pandemic

Interview Options: In-Person Only
Physician Letter Required: DO Only
Virtual Shadowing: Both Virtual and In-Person Accepted
Online Coursework for Prerequisites: Accepted, though in-person is preferred
Pass/Fail Grades for Prerequisites: Not Accepted
MCAT Requirements: Official scores required, with exceptions for special circumstances
Online Lab Coursework: In-person preferred

Additional Resources About the MCAT:

For further clarifications on admissions, you can reach out to the admissions office at admissions.arcom@achehealth.edu.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Student Residence Options

On-campus housing is available with various amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and 24-hour security. All students, including those with families, are welcome as long as space allows.

Additional Information and Contacts

If you’re searching for a medical school that offers a mix of modern amenities, a robust curriculum, and a mission focused on serving the underserved, ARCOM could be the right fit for you.

About ARCOM

ARCOM, situated in a state-of-the-art 102,000-square-foot facility in the second largest city of Arkansas. Their campus is equipped with cutting-edge information technology to support your educational needs. Whether you choose to study in one of their serene outdoor spaces or explore the biking and hiking trails nearby, you’ll find that ARCOM is more than just an institution—it’s a place to realize your ambitions.

Fort Smith, the third largest city in Arkansas, offers a perfect blend of modernity and old-world charm. Recently, Forbes Magazine named it the number one city in America for cost of living, offering both economic advantages and quality of life. With its scenic outdoor activities, renowned guest artists, and numerous festivals, Fort Smith is the place to be. Quality education is also a priority here, with national award-winning public and private schools.

So, whether you’re attracted by the prospect of an exceptional education or the allure of a city that balances modern amenities with a touch of “True Grit,” ARCOM and Fort Smith welcome you.

ARCOM Mission Statement

The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) has a clear mission: to educate and train osteopathic physicians who embody compassion, mastery in patient-centered care, adherence to ethical and social principles, a commitment to ongoing education, and a focus on providing service to underserved populations. Excellence in teaching, research, service, and scholarly activity form the backbone of our undergraduate and graduate medical education programs.

What is the ARCOM COMLEX?

ARCOM COMLEX stands for the COMLEX-USA, which is a three-level examination system that is used to assess the competency of osteopathic medical students and graduates. The COMLEX-USA is required for licensure as an osteopathic physician (DO) in the United States.

ARCOM COMLEX refers to the performance of ARCOM students on the COMLEX-USA examinations. In the 2021 testing cycle, ARCOM students had a first-time pass rate of 88.8% on COMLEX-USA Level 1, above the national average. ARCOM’s first class graduated in May 2021, and all 26 students who completed COMLEX-USA Level 3 passed the exam.

Is Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Accredited?

Yes, ARCOM holds full accreditation.

The Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) is a not-for-profit corporation, recognized as an institution of higher learning in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine is its pioneering program.

ARCOM is accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA). It is also institutionally affiliated with Arkansas Colleges of Health Education.

In 2021, ARCOM was awarded “Accreditation with Heightened Monitoring” by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) and the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA). This accreditation permits graduates to take the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Exam (COMLEX-USA).

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Programs and University Affiliations

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

This program trains future physicians in the art and science of osteopathic medicine, emphasizing a patient-centric approach that treats the whole person. It offers comprehensive medical education that includes not only medical knowledge but also practical skills and ethical grounding.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

This program is designed for students who aspire to become occupational therapists. The curriculum focuses on rehabilitation, hands-on patient care, and the therapeutic use of daily activities to improve the quality of life for patients who are recovering from, or adapting to, physical or mental health issues.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

This program aims to train students in the field of physical therapy, focusing on optimizing patient mobility, relieving pain, and improving overall physical function. It combines rigorous coursework with extensive clinical training to ensure graduates are ready for practice.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Master of Science in Biomedicine (MS)

The MS in Biomedicine program is geared toward students interested in research roles in healthcare. It focuses on in-depth scientific study, ranging from molecular biology to systems biology, as preparation for either further academic pursuit or direct entry into healthcare research careers.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Master of Public Health (MPH)

This program aims to prepare students for roles in public health policy, epidemiology, and healthcare administration, among other areas. Students are trained to develop, implement, and assess public health strategies on both small and large scales.

Each of these programs at ARCOM is structured to offer comprehensive and specialized training, equipping graduates for various roles in healthcare. The cost of attendance for each program is estimated to help prospective students budget for their education adequately. It’s advisable to visit the specific links for a more exact breakdown of costs.

Notable Faculty and Alumni at the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Alumni Spotlight: Meet Jack Parker, ARCOM Class of 2023

Current Role

Jack Parker is a PGY-1 pathology resident at Baylor University Medical Center (BUMC) in Dallas, Texas.

Work-Life Balance

During his time at ARCOM, Jack treated his days as though he was clocking into a full-time job. This disciplined approach allowed him to focus intensely on his studies during the day while reserving the evenings for personal time. He stressed the importance of sleep and quality time with friends and family. His specialty, pathology, is also known for offering a more balanced work-life situation, something he intends to take full advantage of.

Challenges in Medical School

Jack’s most challenging moments came when he compared his progress to that of his peers, particularly during clinical rotations and exam preparation periods. These comparisons led him to question his career choice and potential for success in the medical field.

Overcoming Challenges

The turning point for Jack was discovering his passion for pathology. Immersing himself in this specialty helped him find a sense of purpose and enthusiasm for medicine. This focus provided him a way to disengage from comparisons and served as a beacon to guide him through the tougher times in his studies.

Residency Experience

Transitioning from a confident fourth-year osteopathic medical student to a first-year resident brought a mix of excitement, humility, and challenges for Jack. He finds pathology to be a specialty that requires ongoing learning, especially when it comes to pattern recognition and becoming familiar with a wide array of diagnoses. Fortunately, his transition was made smoother by the fact that he was already familiar with his home city of Dallas and had completed multiple pathology rotations, including one at BUMC.

Anticipated Challenges in Residency

Looking forward, Jack sees maintaining a balanced mindset as his biggest upcoming challenge. He believes that thinking like a marathon runner rather than a sprinter will be essential for long-term success in his residency program. He also emphasizes the need to give oneself grace when encountering setbacks. In his own words, “This is what I’m meant to do, so let’s have fun while doing it and enjoy the process!”

Through Jack’s narrative, one can see the blend of discipline, passion, and resilience that helps shape successful medical professionals. His experience at ARCOM has clearly equipped him well for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in his medical journey.

Faculty Research at ARCOM

Joanne Peterson, Ph.D.

Dr. Peterson is focused on enhancing student performance, particularly in the complex subject of gross anatomy. Her research is centered on identifying various methods that incoming medical students can adopt to better adapt to the intensive academic demands of anatomical sciences.

ORCID ID: Joanne Peterson

Lance Forshee, Ph.D.

Dr. Forshee aims to refine the educational experience for medical students by tackling real-world issues. His ongoing research examines the psychological impacts of fear-based teaching methods employed by faculty. His earlier work includes creating and validating assessment methods, exploring student perceptions of interdisciplinary courses, and analyzing the effects of course-based research experiences.

ORCID ID: Lance Forshee

Matthew C. White, Ph.D.

Dr. White specializes in the study of ubiquitin-proteasome system and related stress pathways, particularly in their relation to cancer and neuroinflammation. Current research collaborations include protein synthesis control mechanisms in cancer and redox regulators of ubiquitin-dependent inflammatory signaling.

ORCID ID: Matthew C. White

Lance Bridges, Ph.D.

The Bridges lab primarily investigates the function of ADAM proteins in immune cell activity. They are particularly interested in exploring how these proteins, which combine adhesive and proteolytic qualities, are regulated. Current work includes the novel concept of “competitive mimicry” as a regulation mechanism for ADAM proteins.

ORCID ID: Lance Bridges

Kenneth Hensley, Ph.D.

Dr. Hensley studies redox biology processes that contribute to neuroinflammation, particularly in the aging brain. His recent work involves the identification of a novel enzyme, LanCL1, and its potential impact on various neurodegenerative diseases.

ORCID ID: Kenneth Hensley

Sherry Turner, Ph.D.

Dr. Turner focuses on clinical medicine, trauma, and disaster medicine, with an osteopathic perspective. She is currently investigating the potential benefits of osteopathic manipulative therapy on COPD and various distraction methods for dementia patients.

ORCID ID: Sherry Turner

Joshua Burns, Ph.D.

Dr. Burns conducts research on protein structure and function, specifically in bacterial protein toxins. His lab uses a range of approaches, from biophysical to genetic, to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these toxins and their interactions with membranes.

ORCID ID: Joshua Burns

Naunihal Zaveri, Ph.D.

Dr. Zaveri’s projects focus on optimizing pharmacology education and incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the curriculum. She collaborates extensively with other medical schools and has presented her findings at national conferences.

ORCID ID: Naunihal Zaveri

Caitlin Yoakum, Ph.D.

Dr. Yoakum’s research is in the field of primate anatomy, especially concerning the feeding system. Her work aims to understand the anatomical variations in nervous tissue and muscle size, which contribute to different dietary practices among primates.

ORCID ID: Caitlin Yoakum

This list of faculty research interests at ARCOM provides an overview of the diverse and impactful research projects being conducted. Each faculty member is contributing to the advancement of medical science and education in their own unique way.

What to Expect – Curriculum at Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Curricular Offerings

The curriculum focuses on active learning and problem-solving, aligned with the competencies set by the profession. Through a combination of classroom lectures, labs, case-based learning, and early clinical experiences, students are prepared for primary care roles.

Preparatory Programs

MS in Biomedicine: A 30-credit hour program to be completed in one year

Required and Recommended Courses

Anatomy (Recommended)
Biochemistry (Required, 3 hrs)
Biology/Zoology (Required, 8 hrs with Lab)
Inorganic Chemistry (Required, 8 hrs with Lab)
Organic Chemistry (Required, 8 hrs with Lab)
Other Science and Non-Science Courses

Admissions Information

Admissions Cycle: Rolling
Earliest Application Date: May 4, 2023
Primary Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Selection Factors: In line with ARCOM’s mission and values, the school aims for a diverse student body. All undergraduate majors are considered as long as prerequisites are completed.
Interviews: Run from July through April and include sessions with faculty, community representatives, and current students.

Additional Application Details

Supplemental Application: Required
Supplemental Fee: $50, non-refundable
Acceptance Schedule: Earliest acceptance is August 1, 2023, and the latest is July 17, 2024

What is the Minimum GPA for ARCOM? MCAT?

Mean MCAT Score: 501.3
Average Cumulative Undergrad GPA: 3.52

For any additional queries, the admissions contact information is as follows:

Phone: (479) 308-2292
Email: admissions.arcom@achehealth.edu
Website: ARCOM Admissions

Admissions Process at Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

The Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine is located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. It’s a modern medical school that uses a team-based learning curriculum with a focus on integrating basic science knowledge into clinical applications.

Interview Options: In-Person
Physician Letter: DO Only
Virtual Shadowing: Both Virtual and In-Person Accepted
Prerequisite Coursework: Online coursework accepted, but in-person preferred
Pass/Fail Grades: Not accepted
MCAT Requirements: Required, with a cut-off date in May 2020

For special admissions circumstances, contact the admissions office at admissions.arcom@achehealth.edu.

Admission Requirements for ARCOM

Required Recommendations

Applicants must provide a letter of endorsement from a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). If procuring a recommendation from a DO is challenging, one from a Medical Doctor (MD) is acceptable. However, this alternative requires a “missing requirements waiver form,” available from the admissions office.

A second recommendation is mandatory and can come from one of two sources. First, a Pre-Medical/Professional Advisory Committee can offer this endorsement. Alternatively, two natural science professors who are familiar with the applicant’s academic capabilities can provide this recommendation.

Note: Should a committee letter cause delays in your application, using recommendations from two science faculty is highly advised. Additional letters enhancing your academic or professional profile are welcome and can be submitted through AACOMAS, Virtual Evals, Interfolio, email, or regular mail.

Testing and Academic Requirements

MCAT scores should be dated no earlier than May 2020.
Applicants should have completed at least 90 credit hours from an accredited college or university or three-fourths of the required credits for a degree.
Only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible for admission; international students are not accepted.
The CASPer test is recommended but not mandatory.

Holistic Review

ARCOM does not set rigid minimum requirements for GPA or MCAT scores. Instead, the admission process reviews multiple factors that align with ARCOM’s mission. Generally, though, competitive candidates have an overall GPA above 3.5, a science GPA above 3.4, and an MCAT score over 500.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Volunteer or shadowing hours are not strictly required but highly advised to exhibit a well-rounded application and dedication to community service.

Preference Criteria

Priority is often given to students from rural or underserved backgrounds who are likely to contribute to ARCOM’s mission. This focus is particularly on candidates from Arkansas and the Southcentral United States.

COVID-19 Adjustments

ARCOM acknowledges the challenges faced by applicants due to the ongoing pandemic. Should you encounter difficulties in meeting admission prerequisites, please contact our admissions department to discuss possible waivers or adjustments.

Pre-Requisite Courses for Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

The following courses, with the listed semester hours, must be completed at an accredited institution:

Biological Sciences with Lab: 8 hours
Biochemistry: 3 hours
Inorganic Chemistry with Lab: 8 hours
Organic Chemistry with Lab: 8 hours
Physics with Lab: 8 hours
Additional Science Electives: 4 hours
English Composition and Literature: 6 hours

Beyond these, broad educational backgrounds that include humanities and behavioral sciences are strongly encouraged, as are additional science courses like genetics, human anatomy, and epidemiology.

For Admitted Students

Each class at ARCOM is limited to 150 students and follows a cohort model. Orientation usually takes place at the end of July annually.

Transfer Policy

ARCOM seldom allows transfers and only from LCME or AOA accredited colleges. Transfers must be academically sound at their current institutions and should provide robust documentation, including a letter from a dean or equivalent authority from their prior institution.

Application Deadline for the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

The final date for application submission is April 15 for enrollment in the following Fall (starting in June/July).

Credits and Accreditation

Transferable credits are only accepted from institutions accredited by either the American Osteopathic Association’s Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA) or the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME).

For more detailed information, prospective students are encouraged to reach out to ARCOM’s admission office.

Financial Information

Tuition, Fees & Financial Aid for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

Tuition Costs

In-State Tuition: $51,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $51,000

Fees Overview

Annual Fees for In-State Residents: $0
Annual Fees for Out-of-State Residents: $0
Health Insurance Fee: $0

For more specifics about what is included in the tuition fees, you can consult the ACHE Financial Aid website.

Additional Expenses

Estimated Annual Room, Board, Books, and Living Costs: $15,810

Student Debt

Average Graduate Indebtedness: $221,385

Deposits

Acceptance Deposit: $2,000
Additional Deposit: $0
Is the Deposit Applied to Tuition? Yes
Is the Deposit Refundable? No

The non-refundable deposit is applied toward the tuition for the first semester upon matriculation.

Financial Aid Information

Financial Aid Website: ACHE Financial Aid
Percent of Enrolled Students Receiving Financial Aid: 84%
Scholarships Offered: Yes
Annual Scholarship or Grant Per Student: $2,560

Students interested in financial aid options can check the ACHE Financial Aid website for details, including scholarships and grants. Given that a significant number of students receive financial aid, it’s advisable to explore all available options.

ARCOM Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) Program Cost for 2023-2024

For students pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree at ARCOM, the cost of attendance varies depending on the year of study and housing status. Below is a summary of the estimated costs:

First Year (Year 1)

Tuition: $55,000 (both On-Campus and Off-Campus)
Fees: $775
Housing and Food: $17,347 (On-Campus), $18,330 (Off-Campus)
Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment: $2,133
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: $5,100
Transportation Expenses: $2,820 (On-Campus), $2,887 (Off-Campus)
Federal Loan Fees: $1,390
- Total Estimated Cost: $84,565 (On-Campus), $85,615 (Off-Campus)

Second Year (Year 2)

Tuition: $51,000
Fees: $0
Housing and Food: $17,347 (On-Campus), $18,330 (Off-Campus)
Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment: $1,014
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: $5,903
Transportation Expenses: $2,820 (On-Campus), $2,887 (Off-Campus)
Federal Loan Fees: $1,390
- Total Estimated Cost: $79,474 (On-Campus), $80,524 (Off-Campus)

Third Year (Year 3)

Tuition: $43,000
Fees: $3,450
Housing and Food: $18,255 (On-Campus), $21,996 (Off-Campus)
Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment: $0
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: $8,092
Transportation Expenses: $3,384 (On-Campus), $3,451 (Off-Campus)
Federal Loan Fees: $1,390
- Total Estimated Cost: $77,571 (On-Campus), $81,379 (Off-Campus)

Fourth Year (Year 4)

Tuition: $43,000
Fees: $3,450
Housing and Food: $17,347 (On-Campus), $18,330 (Off-Campus)
Books, Course Materials, Supplies and Equipment: $0
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses: $10,582
Transportation Expenses: $3,384 (On-Campus), $2,887 (Off-Campus)
Federal Loan Fees: $1,390
- Total Estimated Cost: $79,153 (On-Campus), $79,639 (Off-Campus)

These are estimated costs, and they include a range of expenses such as tuition, fees, housing, food, books, personal expenses, transportation, and federal loan fees. The costs are subject to change and should be verified for the most current information.

Facilities Section: Center for Clinical Skills Development at ARCOM

ARCOM sits on nearly 600 acres in Fort Smith, which is a rural setting despite being Arkansas’s third largest city. The campus includes state-of-the-art labs, such as the Simulation and Standardized Patient Labs, as well as the Anatomy and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine Labs. A dedicated 3500-square-foot research facility is available, and renovations for a 100,000-square-foot Research Institute are expected by 2024.

Wellness initiatives include artwork, fitness centers, walking trails, and informational sessions on nutrition and exercise. Student housing is available and features a wide range of amenities, such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and 24-hour campus police protection.

The Center for Clinical Skills Development (CCSD) serves as a pivotal training ground for aspiring healthcare professionals enrolled in ARCOM programs. Students can apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled, realistic environment. The center has two main labs: the Tom Alexander Memorial Standardized Patient Center and the Simulation Lab.

Vision Statement

The CCSD aims to propel ACHE’s broader mission by improving the instruction and evaluation of psychomotor skills via interactive and cutting-edge simulation exercises.

In alignment with ACHE’s educational objectives, the CCSD integrates advanced, learner-centric, simulation exercises across ACHE programs to create competent and empathetic healthcare providers for the future.

CCSD Code of Ethics

Our code of ethics ensures that all activities and interactions are conducted with the highest degree of professionalism, respect, and integrity.

What is Simulation?

Simulation in healthcare education involves replicating real-world clinical scenarios through high-fidelity simulators, trained actors, and specialized task trainers, all set within a controlled setting.

Goals of Simulation

Furnish students with practical learning experiences
Ready students for real-world clinical settings
Evaluate the proficiency of clinical skills
Promote interprofessional collaboration
Elevate patient safety protocols
Help faculty identify student competencies and areas requiring attention

Become a Standardized Patient

The Standardized Patient Program is actively seeking dedicated community members interested in role-playing to help train future healthcare providers. If this piques your interest, please submit your details below for more information.

Meet the Team

Donald Sefcik, DO: Senior Vice President & Provost
Kerrie Sanders: Manager, Center for Clinical Skills & Development
Daniela Guerrero: Standardized Patient Center Coordinator
Lauren Smith: SIM Lab Coordinator

Contact Information

Main Phone: 479-308-2243
Email: Simulation@achehealth.edu
Schedule a Tour: 479-308-2289
Address: Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, 7000 Chad Colley Blvd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72916

By offering state-of-the-art facilities and a highly skilled team, the CCSD stands as a cornerstone of ARCOM’s commitment to fostering excellence in healthcare education.

ARCOM Typical Class Profile

Average Overall GPA: 3.52
Average MCAT Score: 501.3
Average Age: 25
Total Medical School Enrollment: 626
Total Male:313
Total Female:313
Total Enrollment Affiliate Institutions:758

First-Year Matriculants:144
First-Year Male Matriculants: 71
First-Year Female Matriculants: 73
Matriculants In-State:30
Matriculants Out-of-State:114

Self-Reported Race/Ethnicity

American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.0%
Asian: 25.7%
Black/African American: 2.8%
Hispanic/Latino: 10.4%
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.0%
White: 52.8%
Multiple Races: 5.6%
Undisclosed: 2.8%

Majors of First-Year Matriculants

Science Majors: 58%
Non-Science Majors: 11%
Graduate Degrees: 31%

The information above is based on the ARCOM 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM)-Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics

Tips and Strategies for Admission to the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine Secondary Application Questions

List any significant volunteer, community service and/or mission experiences you have had that is not listed on your AACOMAS application.

While attending UCLA, I committed to a long-term volunteer role with Habitat for Humanity in Los Angeles. I devoted 15 hours per week over the course of eight months. As a construction volunteer, I was hands-on in building homes for low-income families. In addition to the physical labor, I also assisted in planning, which required me to collaborate with the site managers and engineers. My duties were wide-ranging, from interpreting blueprints to driving forklifts, and interacting with the families who would be living in the homes we were building. This experience deeply impressed upon me the importance of housing as a fundamental factor in health and well-being, strengthening my resolve to serve communities in need.

Please tell us about any healthcare experiences you have had that are not listed on your AACOMAS application.

I interned at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia for about a year, dedicating around 20 hours per week. I was primarily assigned to the pediatric unit, where I had a variety of roles. These ranged from assisting in patient intake, administering basic diagnostic tests under supervision, and even participating in rounds as part of a team. This direct exposure to clinical work was vital in enhancing my understanding of patient care. It also offered me the valuable opportunity to work in a fast-paced healthcare environment, providing me with insights into the complexities of healthcare delivery.

How do you plan to fulfill the ARCOM Mission in your practice as a physician?

The ARCOM mission resonates strongly with my personal goals. I am committed to working in underserved areas, focusing on primary care. My experiences with Habitat for Humanity instilled in me the principle of service and the realization that healthcare extends beyond clinical settings into social determinants like housing. My aim is to create healthcare programs that address these determinants in tandem with clinical care, providing a comprehensive approach to community health.

What challenges do you expect to personally face most in the next 10 years as a healthcare professional?

I anticipate that one of the biggest challenges will be keeping up with rapid technological advancements while ensuring equitable healthcare delivery. Emerging technologies like telemedicine and artificial intelligence have the potential to revolutionize healthcare but could also exacerbate existing inequalities. The evolution of personalized medicine is another advancement that, while promising, may be financially prohibitive for many patients.

How do you expect to overcome these challenges?

I plan to overcome these challenges by engaging in policy advocacy and participating in organizations aimed at equitable healthcare access. By being more than a physician, but also a leader in healthcare, I hope to bring systemic issues to the forefront of discussions and policy decisions. Education, research, and community outreach will also be tools I utilize to address these challenges.

Describe an experience where you interacted with a person or people from a different background than you.

During my time at Grady Memorial, I was a mentor to Aisha, a young girl from a Somali refugee family. I found that the cultural and religious nuances were critical to understand for effective healthcare delivery. For instance, I learned about the community’s traditional health beliefs, which often conflicted with Western medicine, creating hesitancy around vaccines and certain treatments.

How did that interaction impact your mindset of the role of a physician?

Interacting with Aisha and her family altered my understanding of what a physician should be. I realized the importance of cultural competency and that a physician’s role is not just to diagnose and treat, but also to communicate effectively with patients from all walks of life. This experience inspired me to work towards becoming a cultural broker in the healthcare system.

If you are in a difficult basic science class and feel you are not fully grasping the information given in lecture, how would you alter your study habits or techniques?

In such a scenario, I would take a multi-pronged approach. First, I would consult external resources and textbooks to supplement my understanding of lecture material. Second, I would form or join a study group to engage in collaborative learning. Lastly, I would seek the help of a tutor or mentor to provide targeted, personalized instruction.

What is a recent book you read that impacted the way you think about today’s world?

The most recent book that has left an impression on me is “Medical Apartheid” by Harriet A. Washington.

Please explain how this book impacted the way you think about today’s world.

Reading “Medical Apartheid” has made me more conscious of the historical injustices in the medical field, particularly regarding the African-American community. It has made me more determined than ever to contribute to a healthcare system that is equitable and free from the taint of racial prejudice and systemic inequality.

How did you hear about ARCOM?

I first learned about ARCOM during a college fair at UCLA. The focus on community-based medical education and the mission to serve underserved populations immediately struck a chord with me.

Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM)-Secondary Application

Comparing Arkansas’s Medical Schools

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine serves as the state’s primary public medical school, celebrated for its rigorous academic programs and focus on clinical skills. This institution benefits from partnerships with institutions like Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. These affiliations offer students a diverse clinical and research experience.

Contrastingly, the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) is a private medical school that emphasizes osteopathic principles and community-based care. Although it may not have the long-standing history of UAMS, ARCOM is highly c

ommitted to quality medical education and practical clinical training, often in rural and underserved areas.

Assessing Arkansas’s PA Programs

Physician Assistant (PA) programs in Arkansas, such as the Harding University PA Program, have accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). This ensures adherence to nationally recognized educational standards. Unlike UAMS, which is a public institution, Harding University operates as a private, faith-based university.

Medical Schools Near Me

This list provides an overview of medical institutions across various states, including the academically rewarding options available in Arkansas. As you explore this list, you’ll find schools that offer a combination of rigorous academic training and invaluable clinical experience. Each institution presents unique opportunities to pave your way to a fulfilling healthcare career.

Other Medical Schools and PA Schools in Arkansas

International Medical Aid Boost Your Medical Career in Arkansas

International Medical Aid offers a distinctive pre-medical shadowing study abroad program designed to enhance your application. This initiative is ideal for acquiring real-world experience, demonstrating your dedication to the medical profession, and enhancing your chances of admission to the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) or other esteemed medical schools in Arkansas.

By participating in programs like the one offered by International Medical Aid, you not only improve your eligibility for PA programs in Arkansas but also amplify your overall profile for other medical schools across the state. Embarking on a medical career starts with a meticulously crafted application, and this guide is intended to serve as a key resource for that very purpose.

International Medical Aid serves as a valuable resource for aspiring medical professionals, particularly for those eyeing opportunities in DO Schools in Arkansas, Fort Smith Medical School, or other AR Medical Schools. Our organization offers pre-med shadowing study abroad programs that uniquely position students to gain the real-world experience often favored by admissions committees, including those at Arkansas PA Programs and Medical School Fort Smith.

This hands-on experience enhances your application and provides a broader understanding of the medical field, which can be advantageous whether you’re applying to DO Schools or MD Schools.

To help students make well-informed decisions, International Medical Aid also provides resources that clarify the differences between DO and MD degrees. If you’re caught at the crossroads of choosing between DO Schools in Arkansas or pursuing an MD, our resourceful guide on DO vs MD can shed light on the major distinctions and help you evaluate which path aligns with your career aspirations.

Through our comprehensive services and programs, International Medical Aid aims to be a cornerstone in your journey toward a rewarding medical career.

Conclusion and Words of Encouragement

We trust this in-depth guide provides you with the necessary information for your upcoming application or interview at ARCOM or any other medical institution in Arkansas. International Medical Aid offers medical school admission consulting targeted advice aimed at helping you decipher the complex process of medical school admissions, particularly if you’re considering medical or PA schools in Arkansas. We wish you every success as you pursue your dreams in the medical field. To consult with our experts on medical school admissions, Book an Appointment with International Medical Aid.