UMDNJ's School of Osteopathic Medicine (SOM) is dedicated to providing the highest quality medical education, research, and health care services. The unique philosophy of osteopathic medicine which is based on wellness and wholistic care provides the foundation of the school's innovative approach to learning. SOM's curriculum prepares future physicians to be leaders in their communities and in clinical and academic medicine. SOM has rapidly risen to a school recognized for its high level of excellence. For example, SOM students consistently rank among the top 25% on national board scores. Also, the school's externally funded research base is among the highest of the 19 osteopathic medical schools in the U.S. SOM is first among osteopathic medical schools in student diversity, with minority students making up over 40% of the student body, and females constituting one half of all students. more