Best D.O. Schools in the US?

Hi! I'm a high school junior and really interested in pursuing medicine. I've been researching D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) programs in the US. What are the top D.O. schools I should be considering?

Hi there! It's great that you're interested in pursuing medicine and specifically considering D.O. programs. While there are many solid D.O. schools in the US, I'll list some of the highly regarded ones to give you an idea of where to start your research:

1. Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) - MSUCOM is known for its strong curriculum and research, as well as its connection to the resources at Michigan State University as a whole.

2. Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) - PCOM's main campus is in Philadelphia, PA, with others in Moultrie and Suwanee, GA. The institution is recognized for its high-level clinical education.

3. Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM) - Located in New Jersey, RowanSOM is known for its community healthcare focus and comprehensive medical education.

4. Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) - COMP offers a diverse learning experience, with campuses in California and Oregon.

5. Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM) - TouroCOM has campuses in New York and Montana, and has a special focus on urban health and serving underserved communities.

6. Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine (DMU-COM) - DMU-COM in Iowa is noted for its commitment to rural healthcare and high licensure exam pass rates.

7. Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU-COM) - KCU-COM, located in Missouri, emphasizes primary care and preparing students to practice in underserved areas.

While these are some of the most well-regarded D.O. schools, it's important to remember that rankings can be subjective. When deciding on a school, go beyond rankings and consider factors like location, cost, curriculum, and availability of programs that align with your own interests. Be sure to also look into each school's unique features, such as research opportunities, clinical rotations, and placements for residency.

Good luck with your research and future medical education!