About TCOM
Creative-Innovative-Progressive
Different by design...TCOM.
Mission: The Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine educates tomorrow's patient-centered physicians and scientists by advancing medical knowledge and providing the highest quality primary and specialty care to the citizens of Texas.
Founded in 1970, the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM) has emerged as one of the nation's leading osteopathic medical schools. During this time, it has received both state and national recognition for its efforts to meet the demands of underserved populations and excellence in education. These honors include:
Top 25 Specialty Ranking in Rural Medicine
U.S. News & World Report, 2011 edition
Top 15 Specialty Ranking in Geriatrics
U.S. News & World Report, 2011 edition
Top 20 Specialty Ranking in Family Medicine
U.S. News & World Report, 2010 and 2011 editions
Top 50 Medical Schools for Primary Care Medicine
U.S. News & World Report, 2002 through present
A Record of Service: Whether they are the only doctor serving a rural community or a specialist at a major medical center, TCOM graduates distinguish themselves as leaders, teachers and scholars. With over 2,800 alumni to date, approximately 65% practice primary care medicine (family practice, general internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology), helping reduce the shortage of physicians in Texas communities. In addition to primary care, alumni also practice in over 50 specialties such as aerospace medicine and vascular medicine. Recent alumni have excelled in some of the nation's most demanding residency training programs by earning the position of chief resident.
History: TCOM's history reflects the traditions, philosophy and commitment to education excellence perpetuated in all programs at the UNT Health Science Center. TCOM accepted its first students in 1970. In 1972, a relationship was forged that laid the foundation for the medical school's eventual evolution into a health science center. TCOM, then a privately funded school, contracted with North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) in nearby Denton to teach basic science courses to first- and second-year medical students. TCOM's first graduating class of 18 received their doctor of osteopathy degrees in 1974. The successful collaboration between the two schools combined with TCOM's commitment to 'specializing' in the education of primary care physicians earned the confidence of state government leaders.
In 1975, TCOM became a state-supported medical school under the jurisdiction of the North Texas Board of Regents. In response to TCOM's remarkable growth and its achievements in health care and science, the Texas Legislature redesignated the medical school as a health science center in 1993. TCOM became the cornerstone component, retaining its osteopathic identity and focus.
This page last updated Sep 01, 2010
