Michigan State University offers good news for qualified undergraduate college students in Michigan: a new statewide Early Assurance Program, or EAP, will make it easier to learn about osteopathic medicine and medical school by connecting with the university’s College of Osteopathic Medicine before applying.

The Michigan Osteopathic Medical Scholars Program, or MI-OMSP, now offers opportunities for mentorship, interaction with osteopathic physicians, courses that teach basic clinical skills, and various enrichment activities. It expands on traditional EAPs, which are agreements between medical schools and colleges that allow qualified applicants to bypass certain aspects of the application processes.  

“EAPs are traditionally exclusive agreements between undergraduate programs and medical schools,” said Gerica Lee, director of Pathway Programs for the college. “We are excited to offer the MI-OMSP to all undergraduate students in the state of Michigan who are interested in becoming an osteopathic physician and who meet the program criteria.  

“Our goal is to provide students in the new program with opportunities to deepen their understanding of the osteopathic profession and engage with the College of Osteopathic Medicine while maintaining the flexibility to pursue their undergraduate education without limitations,” Lee added. “Offering this kind of purposeful, direct mentorship to students across the state of Michigan is truly unique.”   

To qualify, applicants must have earned at least 26 credits from their institution, hold a GPA of 3.5 or higher and meet additional criteria. Once in the program, students will be teamed with a medical student mentor, attend a summer workshop and receive advising and assistance to ensure their best chances of admittance to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program at the College of Osteopathic Medicine.