Overview: Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS), established in 1912, is a distinguished private health sciences university located in North Chicago, Illinois, United States. Evolving from the Chicago Hospital-College of Medicine, RFUMS now stands as a comprehensive institution emphasizing graduate-level medical and health education. With a total enrollment of approximately 2,100 students across five colleges, the university operates a single primary campus, fostering a close-knit academic environment. Renowned for its rigorous research and teaching in health professions, RFUMS is a respected institution attracting students and faculty from across the globe.
RFUMS is notably strong in life sciences, especially medicine, pharmacy, biomedical sciences, podiatric medicine, and physician assistant studies. Its signature programs include the Chicago Medical School and the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, both recognized for innovation in curriculum and training. The university pioneers interprofessional and team-based educational models, preparing students for collaborative, real-world healthcare settings. RFUMS boasts active research centers in neuroscience, cancer biology, and regenerative medicine, with competitive NIH funding and partnerships with local medical centers and international research consortia. Alumni hold leadership roles globally, reflecting the university’s robust academic reputation and impact in healthcare education and research.
Student life at RFUMS is vibrant, with over 50 student organizations spanning academic, cultural, and professional interests. Regular events such as Interprofessional Healthcare Symposia, diversity celebrations, and wellness activities nurture a strong sense of community. Comprehensive student support services, including mental health counseling, academic advising, and peer mentoring, are readily accessible. On-campus housing is available, complemented by modern fitness facilities and arts programming. The university actively promotes inclusivity and global citizenship, welcoming a diverse international student population and fostering a culture of respect and equity.
RFUMS is dedicated to advancing interprofessional healthcare education and research, championing values of integrity, compassion, diversity, and social responsibility. Its mission is to inspire and educate future healthcare leaders through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to improving health outcomes locally and globally.