The Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama provides
innovative research, education, and clinical care in a culture of excellence, discovery,
and scholarship to the next generation of physicians, scientists, and educators.
The educational design of the M.D. program is a competency-based curriculum across all four years, with the first two years of medical school comprising an integrated organ systems-based approach. The last two years are held in USA Health's hospitals and care centers, as well as the offices of community physicians, and expand the students’ education in the surrounds of full-time patient care.
In the early phase of the selection process for our M.D. program, the Admissions Committee looks at the applicant's objective criteria, including GPA, MCAT scores, substance and level of courses taken, trend in academic performance, pre-health advisory review, extracurricular activities, and state of residence. In the interview stage, the Admissions Committee evaluates the applicant’s personal and emotional characteristics that are necessary to become a competent physician.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide innovative research, education, and clinical care in a culture of excellence, discovery, and scholarship to the next generation of physicians, scientists, and educators to advance patient-centered and equitable healthcare.
Vision Statement
We envision a thriving community of medical educators, researchers, and physicians who advance high-quality, innovative, and reliable health care for all.
Strategic Goals
- Education and Academic Excellence
- Research and Discovery
- Staff and Faculty Success
- University & Community Relations
Learn more about the Whiddon College of Medicine in the 2024-2027 COM Strategic Plan [PDF] and the 2022-2023 Annual Report [PDF].
The Whiddon College of Medicine is a member of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). The College offers two degree programs. The M.D. program is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). The Ph.D. program in Basic Medical Sciences is one of the doctoral programs in the University of South Alabama Graduate School. USA Health residency and fellowship programs are affiliated with the College and are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).
Preparation for a career in the science and/or practice of medicine demands the acquisition of a large fund of knowledge and a host of special skills. It also demands the strengthening of those virtues that undergird scientific inquiry and/or the doctor/patient relationship.
The Whiddon College of Medicine's Compact Between Teachers and Trainees in Medicine and Biomedical Sciences [PDF] serves both as a pledge and as a reminder to teachers and trainees that their conduct in fulfilling their mutual obligations is the medium through which our profession(s) instills ethical values.