Welcome to Iowa best medical schools. Our rankings are based on alumni reviews, research scores received, peer institution assessment and admissions statistics including averaged MCAT scores, undergraduate GPA as well as acceptance rates. Below we list top medical schools in Iowa that are top ranked nationally. You can find tuition cost, total enrollment and composite MCAT score for each school.
Top Medical Schools in Iowa
| National Ranking | Best Medical Programs |
| 29 | University of Iowa (Carver) (Iowa City, IA) Acceptance rate: 8.7% MCAT composite score: 10.6 Tuition: Full-time: $30,328 (in-state), Full-time: $41,142 (out-of-state) Average undergraduate GPA: 3.76 Total medical school enrollment: 586 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 1.6:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $157.9
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Medical Schools in Iowa
Iowa is home to renowned medical institutions that offer top-tier medical education, training, and research opportunities. These schools are focused on producing well-rounded healthcare professionals with strong commitments to clinical practice, community health, and research.
1. University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine
Overview
The University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, located in Iowa City, is a highly respected medical school with a rich history of medical education, research, and patient care. The college is part of the University of Iowa Health Care system, which includes University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, providing students with hands-on clinical experience in one of the leading healthcare systems in the region. The college is known for its focus on primary care, medical research, and rural health.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- MD/PhD (Medical Scientist Training Program)
- MD/MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MD/MPH (Master of Public Health)
- Master’s and PhD programs in biomedical sciences
- Residency and fellowship programs in various medical specialties
Admission Requirements
- Average MCAT: 511
- Average GPA: 3.77
- Prerequisites:
- One year of biology with lab
- One year of general and organic chemistry with lab
- Biochemistry
- One year of physics with lab
- Mathematics (calculus or statistics)
- Strong focus on healthcare experience, clinical shadowing, research, and community service
- Emphasis on interpersonal skills, leadership, and service to underserved communities
Starting Salaries
- Median Starting Salary: $60,000–$65,000 (during residency)
- Post-residency: Salaries typically range between $210,000 and $300,000 depending on the specialty, with primary care physicians generally earning toward the lower end and specialists on the higher end.
2. Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Overview
Des Moines University (DMU) College of Osteopathic Medicine, located in Des Moines, is one of the nation’s oldest osteopathic medical schools. DMU focuses on training osteopathic physicians who are committed to providing holistic care, with a strong emphasis on preventive medicine, patient-centered care, and treating the whole person. DMU is well-known for its state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical training facilities, which prepare students for hands-on patient care in a variety of healthcare settings.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS)
- Master of Health Care Administration (MHA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Graduate programs in clinical anatomy and healthcare leadership
Admission Requirements
- Average MCAT: 507
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Prerequisites:
- One year of biology with lab
- One year of general chemistry with lab
- One year of organic chemistry with lab
- Physics with lab
- Biochemistry
- Emphasis on understanding osteopathic principles, clinical experience, and community service, particularly in underserved areas
Starting Salaries
- Median Starting Salary: $55,000–$65,000 (during residency)
- Post-residency: Osteopathic physicians typically earn between $180,000 and $250,000, with primary care physicians often earning on the lower end, and specialists earning higher salaries.