Western University of Health Sciences
Program Type: Early Assurance Program
Program Overview
Western University of Health Sciences offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program that prepares students to become physicians trained in a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. Osteopathic physicians (DOs) use the full scope of modern medicine while also emphasizing the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit in patient health.
Through the CSUF linkage program, qualified students may receive consideration for early or structured admission into WesternU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Who Can Apply?
This linkage opportunity is available to:
-
CSUF undergraduate students who have completed required prerequisite coursework
-
Pre-Health Professions Certificate (PHPC) students who have completed at least one semester of the program
- Students with at least one academic year remaining at CSUF after acceptance
Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, commitment to osteopathic medicine, and alignment with WesternU’s mission of compassionate, service-oriented care.
Academic Requirements
Students must meet both CSUF linkage requirements and WesternU DO admission requirements, which generally include:
- Completion of required prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
- Competitive cumulative and science GPA (typically around 3.3 or higher)
- Minimum grades of B in science coursework (recommended for competitiveness)
- Completion of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), typically with a competitive score (e.g., ~24 or higher depending on cycle expectations)
- At least 8 hours of shadowing with a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Submission of required essays and application materials through CSUF
- Support from the CSUF Health Professions Committee
- Interview and recommendation from WesternU admissions committee
Why Consider This Linkage?
- Early access to a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program in California
- Training in a holistic, patient-centered medical model
- Opportunity to streamline the medical school admissions process
- Strong emphasis on primary care, service, and community health
- Structured support through CSUF Health Professions Advising
Before You Apply
Admission requirements, timelines, and program expectations may change annually. Students interested in the WesternU DO linkage should meet with a Health Professions Advisor early to review eligibility, plan coursework, and confirm current admissions requirements.
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM)
Program Type: Early Assurance Program
Program Overview
LECOM offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program through its Early Acceptance Program partnership with CSUF. The DO degree emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine, focusing on the mind, body, and spirit in patient care.
Through this partnership, qualified CSUF students may receive provisional early acceptance into LECOM while completing their undergraduate education.
LECOM campuses include:
- Erie, Pennsylvania
- Greensburg, Pennsylvania
- Bradenton, Florida
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is available to:
- CSUF undergraduate students who have completed required prerequisite coursework
- First- and second-year students at CSUF (or equivalent early academic standing)
- Students who do not yet hold a bachelor’s degree
Students must demonstrate strong academic performance, commitment to osteopathic medicine, and readiness for a structured early assurance pathway.
Academic Requirements
Students must meet both CSUF linkage requirements and LECOM admission requirements, which generally include:
- Completion of prerequisite coursework in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and mathematics (including calculus)
- Competitive cumulative and science GPA (typically around 3.4 overall and 3.2 science for CSUF students)
- Strong academic performance with no significant deficiencies in prerequisite coursework
- SAT/ACT requirements for high school applicants (if applicable)
- Completion of CSUF Early Acceptance Program (EAP) application and interview process
Successful interview with LECOM admissions
Note: The MCAT is not required for participation in the Early Acceptance Program pathway, but additional requirements must be met prior to matriculation.
Why Consider This Linkage?
- Early provisional acceptance into an osteopathic medical school
- Multiple campus options within the LECOM system
- Holistic, patient-centered approach to medical education
- Streamlined admissions pathway for qualified CSUF students
- Opportunity to secure a medical school seat early while completing undergraduate studies
Before You Apply
Admission requirements, timelines, and program conditions are subject to change. Students interested in the LECOM DO Early Acceptance Program should meet with a Health Professions Advisor early to confirm eligibility, review academic planning, and understand current application requirements.
