What it is
The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is one of the two US physician degrees. DOs are fully licensed physicians with the same practice rights as MDs, trained additionally in osteopathic manipulative medicine and a whole-person philosophy.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
Four years like the MD, then a residency to specialize.
What you study
The MD curriculum plus osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), with the COMLEX (and often USMLE) exams.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites, plus the field's admission test; admission is typically very competitive.
Cost & funding
Professional degrees are among the most expensive, and debt can be significant; loans, scholarships, and service-based repayment are common.
Where it leads
Leads to licensed physician practice via residency, the same as MD graduates.
How it compares
Equivalent in licensure to the MD, with added osteopathic training.
Is it right for you?
Fits those pursuing medicine who value the osteopathic approach.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe osteopathic physician degree
- RightsFully licensed, like MDs
- AddsOsteopathic manipulative medicine
- EntryBachelor's + MCAT
- NextResidency & fellowship
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the resource: