The history of Des Moines University reflects a relentless commitment to teach, learn and serve. DMU was founded as the Dr. S. S. Still College and Infirmary of Osteopathy in 1898 by Dr. Summerfield Saunders Still and his wife, Dr. Ella Still. Originally located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, the nation’s second-oldest osteopathic institution has changed locations and names over the years and expanded to three colleges that offer 10 graduate degree programs, constantly evolving to respond to the nation’s health needs.
Now located on a state-of-the-art campus in West Des Moines, DMU offers aspiring health professionals an outstanding education supported by innovative technology in a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Yet the preparation students receive is still grounded in the principles of holistic, patient-centered care and real-world public health practice.
