Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine

The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) stands as a prominent private medical school dedicated to training physicians who serve communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Founded in 2001 through a collaboration between Virginia Tech and the Harvey W. Peters Research Foundation, VCOM offers a distinctive medical education centered on the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. Its curriculum integrates conventional medicine and surgery with additional comprehensive training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, equipping graduates with a holistic approach to patient care.

VCOM's inception marked it as the 20th osteopathic medical school in the nation and the fourth medical school in Virginia, named in honor of Edward Via, a key advocate for its establishment. From its initial campus, VCOM rapidly expanded its reach, founding a second campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina, which began classes in 2011, and a third in Auburn, Alabama, in collaboration with Auburn University, starting classes in 2015. This strategic growth underscores VCOM's commitment to addressing regional healthcare needs and fostering a new generation of primary care physicians.

Graduates of VCOM are prepared for diverse medical careers, receiving the same medical licensure and participating in the same residency programs as their M.D. peers. While they are qualified to pursue any field of medicine, VCOM strongly emphasizes preparing students for primary care, aligning with its mission to serve rural populations. As of 2021, VCOM was recognized as the second-largest medical school in the U.S. by total enrollment across its multiple campuses, reflecting its significant impact on medical education and its vital role in contributing skilled healthcare professionals to the nation's health infrastructure.