A.T. Still University Rankings & Facts

A.T. Still University (ATSU), established in 1892, holds a distinguished position in the field of healthcare education as the world’s first osteopathic medical school. Founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, who is regarded as the father of osteopathic medicine, the university continues to be a pioneering force in medical education. ATSU is committed to training healthcare professionals who are not only skilled in their respective fields but also embody the holistic approach that is the cornerstone of osteopathic medicine.

Overview of A.T. Still University

A.T. Still University offers a broad range of programs, including accredited master's degree programs, doctoral degrees, and online education opportunities. The university operates through multiple colleges, each dedicated to providing education and training in specific healthcare disciplines. Notably, ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM) remains a flagship institution within the university, reflecting the school’s historical roots and commitment to advancing osteopathic medicine.

The programs offered by ATSU cater to a wide range of healthcare professions, with a focus on fields such as osteopathic medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and health science. Among the university’s distinguished programs are the Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), Doctor of Health Science (DHSc), Doctor of Health Education (DHEd), and several online degrees like the Advanced Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Studies (AMOT) and the Transitional Doctor of Audiology. Through these programs, ATSU aims to produce healthcare leaders who can address the complexities of modern healthcare needs with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.

Accreditations and Recognitions

A.T. Still University’s commitment to high standards of education and training is reflected in its extensive accreditations and national rankings. The university’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM) is ranked 16th in the nation for rural medicine by the U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Graduate Schools” guide (2007). This ranking emphasizes ATSU’s focus on preparing medical professionals for work in underserved and rural communities, an area where there is a significant demand for healthcare services. KCOM’s reputation for producing skilled osteopathic physicians who are well-prepared to handle the unique challenges of rural healthcare is one of its key attributes.

In addition to KCOM’s reputation, ATSU’s Physician Assistant Studies program at the Arizona School of Health Sciences (ASHS) ranks in the top 25 nationally, holding the 25th spot in U.S. News & World Report’s rankings for 2007. This recognition speaks to the quality of education provided in this program, which trains physician assistants to play a crucial role in patient care teams across a range of healthcare settings. ATSU’s continued excellence in producing highly competent physician assistants highlights the university’s role in addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals in diverse medical fields.

The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC), ensuring that it meets rigorous academic standards. This accreditation is essential for maintaining the university’s reputation and ensuring that its graduates are prepared for successful careers in healthcare. Additionally, ATSU’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (SOMA) holds provisional accreditation from the Commission of Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA), an important distinction that allows the school to offer the necessary educational programs to produce osteopathic physicians.

The School of Health Management (SHM), another essential part of the ATSU family, is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, reinforcing the high academic standards and institutional quality associated with ATSU.

Commitment to Rural Medicine and Healthcare Access

A.T. Still University is deeply committed to addressing healthcare disparities in rural and underserved communities. The university’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine has long been recognized for its emphasis on rural medicine, a key part of the osteopathic medical tradition. This focus on rural medicine is critical, as rural communities across the United States often face significant challenges in accessing high-quality healthcare services. By training physicians who are specifically prepared to work in these areas, ATSU plays a vital role in addressing these healthcare access issues.

The school’s rural medicine program provides students with practical, hands-on training in rural healthcare settings, where they gain experience treating a diverse range of medical conditions and working with a wide variety of patient populations. This emphasis on rural medicine is not only beneficial to students but also to the communities that benefit from their healthcare services.

ATSU’s commitment to rural healthcare extends beyond osteopathic medicine. Programs such as the Physician Assistant Studies and the Doctor of Audiology program are also designed to address the healthcare needs of underserved areas by training professionals who are equipped to handle the unique challenges of rural medical practice.

Online Education Programs

Recognizing the need for flexible educational opportunities, A.T. Still University also offers a robust range of online degree programs. These programs allow students from all over the country—and even internationally—to pursue advanced degrees without the need to relocate. The Advanced Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Studies (AMOT) and the Transitional Doctor of Audiology program are just a few examples of the online options available to students seeking to further their education in health science and related fields.

The flexibility of online education at ATSU ensures that students can balance their academic and professional commitments while gaining the specialized knowledge required to succeed in their respective fields. This accessibility is particularly important for working professionals who wish to advance their careers without interrupting their current employment.

Clinical Training and Hands-on Experience

Despite offering several online programs, ATSU remains committed to providing students with high-quality clinical training and hands-on experience. Programs such as the Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.), Doctor of Health Science (DHSc), and Occupational Therapy require students to engage in clinical placements and internships that give them real-world exposure to their fields. These experiences are integral to ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable in theory but also proficient in practical skills that they can apply in their future careers.

The university’s extensive clinical training network helps students gain access to top-tier medical facilities and healthcare organizations, further enhancing the value of their education. ATSU’s commitment to clinical training ensures that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of healthcare employers and provide exceptional care to their patients.

Conclusion

A.T. Still University is a leader in healthcare education, with a rich history of pioneering osteopathic medicine and a commitment to producing skilled healthcare professionals who are dedicated to improving patient care. With a wide range of accredited programs, a focus on rural medicine, and a commitment to accessibility through online education, ATSU provides students with the knowledge and training needed to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field.

The university’s rankings, accreditations, and focus on training healthcare professionals for rural and underserved areas further reinforce its position as an institution committed to addressing the healthcare challenges of today and tomorrow. Whether through its renowned Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, its innovative online programs, or its specialized doctoral and master’s programs, ATSU continues to offer high-quality education that prepares students to become leaders in healthcare, shaping the future of medicine and health science with compassion, expertise, and a holistic approach to patient care.