Osteopathic Medicine
DESCRIPTION | Osteopathic medicine was developed as a method of treatment emphasizing the musculoskeletal system, the patient's potential for self-healing, and a concern for the patient as a complete entity. DOs diagnose and treat human diseases and injuries, and practice preventive medicine, sometimes combined with research and/or teaching. |
DEGREE | D.O. |
PROGRAM LENGTH |
4 years, plus additional training (1-7 years). |
PROFESSIONAL SCHOOLS' ORGANIZATION |
AACOM (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine) AACOM Recruitment Events Osteopathic Medical Schools Osteopathic Financial Aid and Scholarships |
APPLICATION SERVICE |
AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service) Application Deadlines |
ACADEMIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS |
One year each: Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Math (through calculus), Physics, English. Links to prerequisites for each U.S. osteopathic medical school are found at the bottom of the Choosing Your Courses page. |
ADMISSION EXAM |
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) |
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES & EXPERIENCES | Similar to allopathic medicine. Also a knowledge and commitment to the DO's traditional concern for the whole person and a "holistic" approach to the practice of medicine in general. |
RECOMMENDATION LETTERS | Health Professions Committee letter (usually confidential) sent with additional individual letters of support. |