Osteopathic medicine, a branch of medicine that emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself, has been gaining increasing popularity in recent years. If you’re considering a career as an osteopathic physician, choosing the right medical school is crucial.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA).
- Curriculum: Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it meets your interests and career goals. Consider factors such as clinical rotations, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary experiences.
- Faculty and Staff: Learn about the faculty’s experience and research interests. A strong faculty can provide valuable mentoring and guidance.
- Location and Facilities: Consider the school’s location and its proximity to clinical training sites. State-of-the-art facilities enhance the learning experience.
- Research and Innovation: Explore the school’s research activities and innovations. Strong research programs foster intellectual curiosity and contribute to advancements in medicine.
According to U.S. News & World Report, the following are the top-ranked osteopathic medical schools in the United States:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine | Des Moines, IA |
| 2 | Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine | East Lansing, MI |
| 3 | A.T. Still University of Health Sciences Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine | Kirksville, MO |
| 4 | Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific | Pomona, CA |
| 5 | Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine | Henderson, NV |
In addition to the general osteopathic curriculum, some schools offer specialized programs, including:
- Pediatric Osteopathy: Focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of children.
- Geriatric Osteopathy: Emphasizes the care of older adults.
- Neurological Osteopathy: Spezializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders.
- Neuromusculoskeletal Osteopathy: Concentrates on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
- Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT): Utilizes hands-on techniques to promote healing.
- Maintain a high GPA in science and math courses.
- Gain clinical experience through internships or volunteer work.
- Prepare thoroughly for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
- Submit a strong personal statement and letters of recommendation.
- Research osteopathic medical schools and attend information sessions.
- Applying to too many schools: Focus on a select few schools that align with your interests and qualifications.
- Neglecting the personal statement: The personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your passion for osteopathic medicine and demonstrate your uniqueness.
- Ignoring clinical experience: Clinical experience is essential for demonstrating your commitment to patient care.
- Overlooking the importance of MCAT scores: While MCAT scores are not the only factor in admissions, a strong score can significantly enhance your competitiveness.
- Not following up on applications: After submitting your applications, follow up with the admissions office to express your continued interest and inquire about the status of your application.
Choosing an osteopathic medical school is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By following the information provided in this guide, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your career goals and sets you on the path to becoming a successful osteopathic physician.