United States Medical Schools

There are two types of medical school in the United States: Allopathic and Osteopathic. The schools grant different degrees, but their curricula are comparable. In addition, the two degrees are treated identically under U.S. law.

There are currently 125 allopathic medical schools and 23 osteopathic schools in the United States. Because allopathic schools predominate by a large margin, most people are familiar with the M.D. degree and unfamiliar with the D.O.

Why then do people choose to attend osteopathic medical schools? First, osteopathic schools have a different, more holistic philosophy that appeals to some students. Second, osteopathic schools traditionally have slightly lower admissions standards than allopathic schools. Consequently, osteopathic schools are sometimes treated as "backup schools" by allopathic applicants.

Ultimately, graduates of either type of school are granted the same rights and privelidges, and they may practice any type of medicine they choose.

For a complete history of osteopathic medicine, please read The D.O.'s

• Required Courses
• Entrance Exams
• Foreign Medical Schools
• The Common Application
• Secondary Application
• Letters of Recommendation
• Volunteer Work and Clinical Exposure
• Research Experience
• Extracurricular Activities

Be Prepared... Be Confident... Be Admitted!