About VTCSOM
Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine (VTCSOM) is a medical school located in Roanoke, Virginia, established through a partnership between Virginia Tech and Carilion Clinic in 2010. This unique public-private collaboration has created an innovative medical education model that integrates research, clinical practice, and the latest medical technologies.
VTCSOM Mission: To improve the health of the communities we serve by providing exceptional medical education, conducting cutting-edge research, and delivering compassionate patient care.
Innovation in Medical Education
VTCSOM offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program that emphasizes competency-based education, patient-centered care, and research. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the rapidly changing landscape of healthcare by fostering critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
One distinctive aspect of VTCSOM's educational approach is its "curriculum management system," which integrates basic science and clinical education throughout all four years of medical school. This systems-based approach allows students to understand the biological, psychological, and social aspects of health and disease in a comprehensive manner.
Research Excellence
Research is a core component of VTCSOM's mission. The school is affiliated with the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, which conducts interdisciplinary research in areas such as cardiovascular science, neuroscience, cancer biology, and metabolic disorders. Medical students are required to complete a rigorous research curriculum, culminating in a mentored research project. This emphasis on research not only contributes to scientific advancement but also helps students develop critical analysis skills essential for evidence-based medical practice.
Clinical Training
VTCSOM students benefit from extensive clinical experiences at Carilion Clinic, a nationally recognized healthcare system. Through this partnership, students work alongside experienced clinicians in a variety of settings, gaining exposure to diverse patient populations and clinical scenarios. The school's focus on interprofessional education also allows medical students to learn collaboratively with students in other health professions, mirroring the team-based approach of modern healthcare delivery.
Student Life
Located in the vibrant city of Roanoke, VTCSOM offers a supportive learning environment in a picturesque setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern simulation center where they can practice clinical skills in a safe environment. The school's relatively small class sizeapproximately 42 students per yearensures personalized attention from faculty and fosters a strong sense of community among students.
Admissions
VTCSOM seeks candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, research experience, and a commitment to serving others. The admissions process is holistic, considering not only academic metrics but also personal qualities, experiences, and alignment with the school's values. Successful applicants typically have strong undergraduate academic records, competitive MCAT scores, and meaningful experiences in clinical, research, and community service settings.
