Top 8 Osteopathic Medical Schools in 2025 | Best DO Programs

Thinking about becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)? With only 33 accredited osteopathic medical schools in the U.S., choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But each DO school brings something unique to the table—whether it's a commitment to rural health, a diverse student body, or innovative training programs.

Below, we highlight eight of the best osteopathic medical schools in the U.S. and what sets them apart. These standout institutions not only prepare future doctors with holistic, patient-centered care approaches, but also offer strong post-graduation opportunities.

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)

VCOM's mission is clear: train physicians to serve rural and medically underserved populations. With campuses across Virginia, the Carolinas, and Alabama, VCOM emphasizes community-based care and research that improves public health. Over 90% of students match into their top-choice residency, and many participate in loan forgiveness programs focused on primary care and rural medicine.

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM)

MSUCOM is the only DO program ranked by U.S. News & World Report for excellence in primary care training. The school boasts a high in-state retention rate—over two-thirds of its graduates stay in Michigan to practice medicine. With strong research funding and affiliations with major hospitals, MSUCOM is an excellent choice for future physicians seeking rigorous academics and local impact.

Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine

Located in Harlem, New York, Touro COM is a mission-driven institution focused on increasing access to healthcare in underserved communities. The school has a high percentage of underrepresented minority students and is deeply integrated into the local community. Its urban setting offers rich clinical opportunities across diverse patient populations.

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM)

LECOM is one of the most accessible DO schools in the country, accepting applicants with a GPA as low as 2.7 (average accepted GPA is 3.2). It also offers a unique 3-year Primary Care Scholars Pathway, ideal for students eager to graduate and enter the field faster. LECOM operates with a focus on affordability, offering one of the lowest tuition rates among medical schools.

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM)

With campuses in Pennsylvania and Georgia, PCOM combines traditional osteopathic values with a focus on interdisciplinary healthcare. The school offers over $1 million in scholarships annually and has a student loan default rate of less than 1%. Students benefit from a problem-solving curriculum that emphasizes real-world collaboration and professionalism.

Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MUCOM)

MUCOM, Indiana’s first new medical school in over a century, is rooted in Catholic values while remaining inclusive of all faiths. Located near downtown Indianapolis, the school fosters leadership, service, and innovation. With an average GPA of 3.61 for accepted students, MUCOM offers competitive training with strong community engagement.

Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM)

ACOM was the first DO program to launch with a regional medical center affiliation—Southeast Health in Dothan, Alabama. This connection gives students early access to hospital-based training. ACOM is known for its modern curriculum, regional impact, and growing national reputation for excellence in osteopathic medical education.

West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM)

WVSOM is one of the most selective DO programs, accepting just 9% of applicants. However, it rewards its small class size with high residency match rates and unique student benefits, such as free laptops for incoming students. If you’re looking for personalized education and financial support, WVSOM is worth serious consideration.

Boost Your Application with a Healthcare Internship Abroad

Your GPA and MCAT score are important—but admissions committees also look for applicants who demonstrate real-world experience, cultural competence, and a passion for service. One of the most powerful ways to stand out? A pre-med internship abroad.

At Go Elective, we offer immersive healthcare internships in Kenya and Tanzania that provide:

Clinical shadowing alongside experienced physicians
Exposure to global health challenges and solutions
Hands-on public health outreach and community service
Cultural immersion experiences to broaden your worldview

Whether you're preparing for osteopathic or allopathic medical school, our programs help you build a compelling application while making a real impact.

> Explore our pre-med internships abroad
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