Schaumburg, IL – February 24, 2026 – NCOM is pleased to share that it has received candidate status from the COCA signifying continued advancement of this new non-profit college of osteopathic medicine based in Schaumburg, Illinois. This important achievement brings NCOM one step closer to matriculating and graduating future generations of proud and passionate osteopathic physicians leading to lasting and meaningful long-term impact within the communities they will serve.
“We are honored to have been granted Candidate status by COCA and look forward to meeting and exceeding the requirements for this next phase of the process,” stated Founding Dean, Chief Academic Officer, and Professor of Emergency Medicine, Dr. K. Scott Whitlow, DO, CS, FAAEM. “NCOM will bring innovative and unparalleled opportunities to the Chicagoland area, and beyond, to create positive and lasting impact to the world of osteopathic medicine.”
The COCA, a division within the American Osteopathic Association, is recognized by the US Department of Education as the accreditor of colleges of osteopathic medicine. Candidate status means that NCOM has met all the required standards and elements set by the COCA while also showcasing the planning and resources necessary to proceed towards the next milestone of Pre-Accreditation status within two years. Once NCOM achieves Pre-Accreditation status, it will be allowed to start the recruitment of students.
“I’ve shared my commitment and passion to what I call the ‘tripod’ of service to community – care, compassion, and excellence,” said President/CEO Dr. M.T. AliNiazee, PhD. “COCA recognizing that commitment and passion by advancing NCOM through this process continues to fuel everything we do, and we look forward to sharing our continued progress.”
For more information about NCOM, the leadership team, or to follow our journey to accreditation, please visit www.ncomchicago.org.