In 1995, Midwestern University acknowledged the growing need for physicians in the United States and established AZCOM in Glendale, Arizona. The inaugural class of osteopathic medical students began classes on September 30, 1996, and graduated on June 4, 2000. AZCOM achieved full accreditation status following the graduation of this first class. In 2008, AZCOM increased its class size to 250 to help address the need for more physicians in the state of Arizona.

Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine educates students to become qualified osteopathic physicians who provide quality patient care, exhibit professionalism, and serve their communities.

The mission will be achieved by meeting the following objectives:

• Incorporate clinical teaching into the curriculum.
• Incorporate osteopathic principles and practice, including osteopathic manipulative treatment, into the curriculum.
• Incorporate basic scientific principles.
• Provide opportunities for research and scholarly activity for students, residents, and faculty.
• Prepare students for COMLEX-USA Level 1, Level 2 CE, and Level 2 PE to support completion of the program and graduation.
• Demonstrate student acquisition of the osteopathic core competencies.
• Assess the performance of AZCOM graduates.
• Encourage participation in community service by students, residents, and faculty.
• Support postgraduate training programs associated with Midwestern University, including osteopathic recognition program development.
• Equip students to be successful in residency placement.
• Provide faculty and staff development opportunities.
• Provide financial literacy programs and events.
• Support mental health and wellness for students, residents and faculty.

AZCOM embodies osteopathic academic excellence and scholarship through professionalism, compassion, leadership, and community service.

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