DO School Rankings: The Best Osteopathic Medical Schools in 2026
If you want to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), ignore hype and get specific about fit. “Best” depends on what you want to practice, where you want to train, and how much debt you can realistically carry. In 2026, osteopathic medical education is also too large and too fast-moving for a single universal ranking to tell the whole story.
Here is the reality check: close to 30% of U.S. medical students are now in osteopathic medical education, and there are 41 U.S. colleges of osteopathic medicine operating at 66 teaching locations across 36 states, based on 2023-2024 academic year data. AACOM also reported a record 99% of DO graduates obtaining residency positions in 2025, which reflects successful placement through various pathways, including the NRMP Main Residency Match.
That growth affects applicants directly. The 2025-26 AACOMAS cycle closes on June 12, 2026, so timelines, secondary volume, and interview scheduling can feel tighter than they did even a few years ago. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for applicants planning their 2026 cycle.
Recent Trends and Shifts in Osteopathic Medical Education for 2026 Applicants
The landscape of osteopathic medical education is continuously evolving, and staying informed about the latest trends is key for applicants aiming for the 2026 cycle. These shifts can influence everything from application strategies to residency outcomes.
- DO seniors hit a record-high 92.6% PGY-1 match rate in the 2025 NRMP Main Residency Match, with 8,392 active DO seniors participating. This strong performance underscores the growing recognition and integration of DO physicians within the broader medical community. For applicants, this high match rate provides reassurance about postgraduate training opportunities.
- Residency “match rate” and “placement rate” are often used loosely. It is important for applicants to distinguish these terms. Some schools report placement that can include residency plus research or clinical fellowships, so confirm what each school is counting before you compare numbers. A high “placement rate” usually indicates that nearly all graduates secure a postgraduate position, while the “match rate” specifically refers to the percentage of students who match into residency through the NRMP.
- NBOME announced changes to COMLEX-USA Level 1 and Level 2-CE that reduce the exam to 320 questions, with the target start aligned to Spring 2026 test cycles (May for Level 1, June for Level 2-CE). These changes aim to enhance the assessment process and reduce test burden. Applicants should familiarize themselves with the new exam format and plan their study schedules accordingly. This adjustment may also influence how scores are interpreted by residency programs in the coming years.
- Budgeting for residency applications matters earlier. For the 2026 ERAS season, the COMLEX-USA transcript fee is a one-time $80 charge per season. This is a practical detail that adds to the overall cost of the application process. Financial planning for both medical school and residency applications should begin well in advance.
Beyond these specific updates, 2026 applicants should also note the ongoing emphasis on primary care and rural medicine within osteopathic programs. Many DO schools have explicit missions to address healthcare disparities, and demonstrating a genuine interest in these areas can be a significant advantage in the application process. Furthermore, the integration of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) into clinical practice continues to be a distinctive feature of DO education, providing a unique approach to patient care.
A Practical Way to Use DO School Rankings
Use this list as a starting point, not a finish line. Here is a process that holds up in 2026.
- Define your non-negotiables first: geography, public vs private tuition realities, and whether you want an urban safety-net patient mix or a rural pipeline. Consider your personal support network and the environments where you thrive.
- Compare your academics to published ranges, but do not stop there. Many schools weigh trends in your GPA, the rigor of your coursework, and the depth of your clinical experience heavily. A holistic review means they look at more than just numbers.
- Verify outcomes with the same definitions: match vs placement, whether SOAP is included, and whether the school breaks outcomes down by campus. Schools that provide transparent data help you make an informed decision.
- Model cost using school-published tuition and cost-of-attendance estimates, then stress-test it with conservative assumptions. Living costs, board fees, and fourth-year travel add up quickly. Understanding the cost of medical school is a crucial step in financial planning.
- Build a balanced school list: a few reach options, a solid core of realistic targets, and at least a couple programs where your mission fit is obvious on paper. Researching why medical school ranking doesn’t matter as much as fit can help guide this process.
If you want a structured refresher on the full medical school application path, see Premed 101: How to Prep Yourself for Applying to Any Medical School in the U.S..
DO vs MD vs PA, and Where BS/MD Fits
DO and MD graduates are both physicians who complete four years of medical school and then enter residency training. From a workforce perspective, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects physician and surgeon employment growth of 3% from 2024 to 2034, with about 23,600 openings per year on average. This steady demand reflects the critical need for physicians across various specialties and geographic regions.
If you are still deciding between becoming a physician and pursuing a shorter clinical route, it is worth comparing the physician path to physician assistant training. BLS lists physician assistants among the fastest-growing occupations, with a projected 27% growth rate from 2022 to 2032, translating to about 12,200 openings per year on average. The median annual wage for physician assistants was $130,490 in May 2023. These figures highlight the significant and growing role PAs play in healthcare delivery, often working collaboratively with physicians.
Considering the differences in training, scope of practice, and autonomy is essential. While both DOs and PAs are vital members of the healthcare team, the depth and breadth of medical education for physicians typically lead to a broader diagnostic and treatment authority, as well as the ability to specialize across a wider range of medical fields. For students evaluating these pathways, gaining clinical hours in diverse settings can help clarify career aspirations.
For applicants early in the pipeline, combined programs can also be part of the conversation. If you are exploring that option, see BS/MD Programs: The Definitive Guide to Getting In.
If you are leaning toward PA instead of medical school, start with PA School Requirements: The Ultimate Guide, then read How to Get Into PA School and Physician Assistant (PA) Salaries in the USA to sanity-check the path and the tradeoffs.
Choosing Your Path: Practical Considerations for DO Applicants in 2026
Applying to DO school in 2026 requires more than just compiling a strong academic record. It demands strategic thinking, self-awareness, and a clear understanding of what you seek in a medical education. Admissions committees look for candidates who are not only capable but also a good fit for their program’s mission and culture.
Understanding Mission Alignment
Every DO school has a distinct mission, often centered around serving underserved populations, promoting primary care, or integrating osteopathic principles into practice. Researching these missions thoroughly is paramount. For example, some schools explicitly aim to train physicians who will practice in rural areas, while others focus on urban community health. Your personal statement and secondary essays should reflect how your experiences, values, and career goals align with the specific missions of the schools to which you are applying. This isn’t about telling schools what they want to hear, but genuinely identifying programs that resonate with your authentic aspirations. Demonstrating a clear understanding of what to know before getting into medical school often includes this mission alignment.
Emphasizing Your Clinical and Service Experiences
Admissions committees want to see that you have a realistic understanding of medicine. This comes through quality clinical experience, not just quantity. Shadowing DO physicians, volunteering in healthcare settings, and working as a medical scribe or assistant can provide invaluable insights. Equally important are non-clinical service experiences, which demonstrate your commitment to helping others and your capacity for empathy, a core tenet of osteopathic medicine. When describing these experiences, focus on what you learned, how you grew, and how they solidified your desire to pursue a career as a DO physician. Consider activities that provide verified hours for medical school applications.
Interview Preparation and Communication Skills
Securing an interview is a significant step, and preparation is essential. Be ready to articulate why you want to be a DO, what you understand about osteopathic principles, and how your experiences have prepared you for medical school. Practice answering common interview questions and mock interviews can significantly boost your confidence and refine your responses. Strong communication skills are also crucial for patient interaction in your future career. Admissions committees assess not only what you say, but how you say it, looking for professionalism, genuine curiosity, and the ability to listen thoughtfully.
Financial Planning and Debt Management
Medical school is a substantial financial investment. While tuition figures can seem daunting, a thorough understanding of the total cost of attendance, including living expenses, books, and fees, is critical. Research available scholarships, grants, and federal loan options. Many schools provide detailed financial aid counseling to help students create sustainable payment plans. Approaching this aspect realistically from the outset can alleviate significant stress during your medical education. Remember to factor in not just tuition, but also costs like health insurance, transportation, and personal expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions About DO Admissions
Below are common questions people ask when they first start comparing DO programs. Understanding these points can help clarify the application process and what to expect from osteopathic medical education.
How many DO schools are there in the United States right now?
Based on 2023-2024 academic year data, AACOM states there are 41 U.S. colleges of osteopathic medicine operating at 66 teaching locations across 36 states. This represents a robust and expanding system of medical education.
Is osteopathic medical school “easier” to get into?
It is still highly competitive. For example, for the 2023-2024 application cycle (for the class entering Fall 2024), PCOM Philadelphia received 7,227 applications, interviewed 802 applicants, and ultimately matriculated 270 students. That is not “easy,” and it is a reminder that you should treat DO admissions as selective. While average metrics like GPA and MCAT scores for matriculants at DO schools may sometimes be slightly lower than for MD schools, the rigorous application process and the caliber of accepted students demonstrate that these are challenging programs to enter. Applicants should approach DO school applications with the same seriousness and preparation as they would for any medical program.
Do DO students have to take USMLE?
DO students must take COMLEX-USA for licensure in all 50 states. COMLEX-USA transcripts are transmitted to residency programs through a process that includes a one-time $80 transcript fee per ERAS season. Some students also choose to take USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) for program-specific reasons, particularly if they are aiming for highly competitive specialties or specific residency programs that may have historically preferred USMLE scores. Whether taking the USMLE is necessary depends on your specialty goals and your school’s advising. It is advisable to consult with your academic advisor to determine if taking both sets of exams aligns with your career aspirations.
What is the difference between match rate and placement rate?
Definitions vary, and it is crucial to understand the nuances when comparing schools. A “match rate” typically refers to the percentage of students who successfully obtain a residency position through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). A “placement rate,” as PCOM’s program data explains, may include residency programs plus research fellowship programs or clinical fellowship programs where graduates have placed. This broader definition reflects all pathways to postgraduate training, not just the NRMP match. While a high placement rate is positive, you should make sure you are comparing the same metric across schools to ensure an apples-to-apples comparison. Always look for clarity in how a school defines its success metrics.
What MCAT score do I need for DO school?
There is no universal cutoff, but you should anchor your expectations to published school ranges and to the reality that DO schools remain selective. For instance, many successful applicants to DO schools have MCAT scores in the 500-510 range, with competitive GPAs typically above 3.0, and often in the 3.4-3.7 range. Admissions committees consider your MCAT score as one piece of a comprehensive application, alongside your GPA, clinical experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and interview performance. For a focused discussion of how MCAT scores are used, see What MCAT Score Do You Need to Get Into Medical School?.
What role do osteopathic principles play in a DO education?
Osteopathic medicine is founded on a unique philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, the body’s self-healing capabilities, and the importance of preventive care. DO education integrates these principles into all aspects of medical training, including diagnosis and treatment. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a distinctive component of DO practice, using hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness or injury. Aspiring DOs should understand and appreciate this foundational aspect of osteopathic medicine, as it will be central to their training and practice. Demonstrating an understanding and appreciation for these principles in your application can highlight your mission fit.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)
VCOM is mission-driven, and it is explicit about who it is trying to train: community-focused physicians prepared to serve rural and medically underserved populations. It operates across four campuses (Virginia, Carolinas, Auburn, and Louisiana), but the mission is consistent across locations. The college’s dedication to addressing healthcare needs in specific regions is a key factor for applicants to consider, particularly those with a commitment to primary care and service.
2025-2026 Tuition and Cost Expectations
VCOM’s 2024-2025 academic-year tuition is listed as $51,800. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, it is projected to be similar or slightly higher. The school states it does not charge additional fees beyond tuition for participation in the DO program. However, students should also account for living expenses, books, and other indirect costs when budgeting for their medical education.
Residency Placement and How to Interpret It
For the Class of 2025, VCOM reported a combined final placement rate of 99.6% across all campuses, with a combined initial match rate of 97%. One thing VCOM does well is explain that “initial match” is not the whole story. Students who do not match initially may still place through SOAP (Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program), and final placement is the more meaningful number for most applicants. This transparency helps applicants understand the full scope of residency outcomes and the various paths graduates take to secure postgraduate training.
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM)
MSUCOM is a large, established public osteopathic medical school with multiple sites in Michigan, including East Lansing, Detroit, and Macomb. AACOM describes the program as student-centered and focused on fostering community access to patient-centered medical care. As a public institution, MSUCOM often plays a significant role in training physicians for the state of Michigan.
Mission Fit and Outcomes in Michigan
MSUCOM highlights a strong in-state training pipeline. The school reports a 99% match rate for the Class of 2025 and states that 66% of matched graduates are staying in Michigan for residency training. This focus on retaining physicians within the state aligns with its public mission and commitment to serving the local population. Applicants with ties to Michigan or a desire to practice there may find MSUCOM a particularly good fit. The program’s expansive clinical network across the state provides students with diverse training environments.
For academics, MSUCOM’s applicant guidance notes that recent entering classes typically have an MCAT average between 506 and 508, with GPA expectations often in the 3.5 to 3.7 range. For the Class of 2027 (entering Fall 2023), the average overall GPA was 3.65 and the average MCAT was 508. These figures provide a realistic benchmark for prospective applicants.
2025-2026 Tuition Snapshot
MSUCOM’s published 2024-2025 financial aid budget for the DO program lists fall and spring tuition at $16,681 per term for residents and $23,045 per term for non-residents for full-time attendance. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, these figures are expected to be similar or slightly higher. Additional living and other expense categories are used to build a comprehensive cost of attendance estimate, which is important for financial planning.
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM)
TouroCOM has campuses in Harlem (New York City), Middletown (New York), and Great Falls (Montana). Its stated mission emphasizes training osteopathic physicians with a particular focus on practicing medicine in underserved communities, which shows up in its outreach and location choices. The diverse geographic settings offer varied clinical experiences and exposure to different patient populations.
2025-2026 Tuition and Cost of Attendance
TouroCOM lists 2024-2025 DO program tuition as $69,300, with $200 in fees, for a total annual tuition and fees figure of $69,500. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, these figures are expected to be similar or slightly higher. The school also publishes campus-specific cost of attendance estimates that include living expenses, transportation, books and supplies, and health insurance. These detailed estimates are crucial for applicants to understand the full financial commitment.
Match Outcomes by Campus
TouroCOM publishes match results by campus, offering a clear view of where its graduates secure postgraduate training. For Harlem, it reports a final match rate of 98.33% for AY 2024-25 (Class of 2025), with 115 NRMP matches plus other pathways, and it reports comparable tables for other academic years. This granular data allows applicants to assess outcomes specific to the campus they might attend, helping them make more informed decisions about program fit and specialty aspirations.
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM)
LECOM is known for offering multiple campuses (Erie, Pennsylvania; Bradenton, Florida; Elmira, New York) and a structured approach to admissions pathways. It can be an attractive option for applicants who want clear requirements and a cost structure that is often lower than many private medical schools. LECOM’s educational model includes various tracks, such as a traditional lecture-discussion pathway, a problem-based learning pathway, and a distance-education track for some years, providing flexibility for different learning styles.
Admissions Floors and Three-Year Options
LECOM states that applicants have a minimum 2.7 GPA requirement. That does not mean the average accepted student is 2.7, but it matters if you are triaging where you are eligible to apply. Competitive applicants typically have significantly higher GPAs. This minimum threshold can be important for applicants looking for programs where they meet baseline academic criteria.
LECOM also offers an accelerated three-year Primary Care Scholars Pathway (PCSP) that condenses medical education into three years while still awarding the DO degree. This pathway is designed for students committed to primary care and can be an attractive option for those seeking to enter residency sooner, though it requires a high level of academic rigor and commitment. Another accelerated option is worth exploring, and you can learn more about three-year medical school programs.
2025-2026 Tuition Example From the Erie Campus
For 2024-2025 at the Erie campus, LECOM lists tuition for OMS1 and OMS2 as $40,845, OMS3 as $46,345, and OMS4 as $45,645, plus program fees. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, these figures are expected to be similar or slightly higher. The school also publishes estimated living expenses by year, which is useful for building a realistic cost plan and understanding the full financial burden of attendance.
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM)
PCOM is a long-established osteopathic institution with multiple locations, including the Philadelphia campus, Georgia (Suwanee), and South Georgia (Moultrie) campuses. In 2025, PCOM reported that all three locations obtained 99% postgraduate placement rates for DO students, demonstrating consistent success in guiding graduates to residency positions. PCOM emphasizes a tradition of service and training physicians to address community health needs.
What PCOM Publishes That Applicants Can Actually Use
PCOM’s DO program data page is unusually transparent. For the Philadelphia DO program, for the 2023-2024 application cycle (for the class entering Fall 2024), it reports 7,227 applications received, 802 applicants interviewed, and 270 matriculants. It also reports an overall average MCAT score of 504 for admitted students in the Class of 2027 (entering Fall 2023). This level of detail provides prospective students with clear benchmarks and insights into the admissions process.
PCOM reports a 99% postgraduate placement percentage for 2025. Importantly, it defines its placement lists as including residency programs plus research fellowship programs or clinical fellowship programs. This comprehensive approach to reporting outcomes helps students understand the diverse paths their graduates take after completing their DO degree.
2025-2026 Cost of Attendance Estimate
PCOM’s financial aid office publishes a DO-program cost of attendance estimate that includes both direct and indirect costs. For the DO program, based on 2024-2025 data, the page lists estimated tuition of $66,015 per year (with a comprehensive school fee of $800), and it estimates a total cost of attendance across four years of $405,194. While 2025-2026 figures are subject to change, this provides a solid estimate for financial planning. Understanding these comprehensive costs helps students prepare for the financial realities of medical school.
If you are reapplying or rebuilding your profile after a weaker cycle, read Reapplying to Medical School: The Definitive Guide before you submit another application that looks the same as last year’s.
Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MU-WCOM)
Marian University’s DO program is commonly referred to as MU-WCOM (the Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine). AACOM describes the school as rooted in Franciscan values and committed to preparing osteopathic physicians through research, service, and teaching, with an explicit focus on serving Indiana. This mission-driven approach means that applicants demonstrating a commitment to service and community engagement, particularly within Indiana, may find a strong fit here.
2025-2026 Tuition
AACOM’s school profile lists 2024-2025 tuition for MU-WCOM at $61,600 for both in-state and out-of-state students. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, this figure is expected to be similar or slightly higher. The consistent tuition rate for both resident and non-resident students can simplify financial planning for many applicants.
Residency Outcomes
MU-WCOM publishes outcomes tables showing match and placement results by class year, providing transparency for prospective students. Its outcomes page lists an overall match rate of 100% for the Class of 2025, a testament to the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for postgraduate training. In a Match Day 2025 recap, Marian highlighted that 100% of Wood College graduates secured medical residencies and noted that 44% would begin residency in Indiana, which aligns with its regional mission to address the state’s healthcare needs. This strong regional placement is a significant indicator for students interested in practicing in Indiana.
Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM)
ACOM is a newer DO school, but it has already built a track record of residency placement across multiple specialties. The school reports that since 2017 its graduates have matched and placed into more than 20 specialties, with over 60% entering primary care disciplines. This strong focus on primary care is consistent with the broader mission of many osteopathic medical schools and addresses critical healthcare needs.
2025-2026 Tuition and Cost of Attendance
ACOM lists a 2024-2025 tuition rate of $60,576. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, this figure is expected to be similar or slightly higher. ACOM also publishes a standard cost of attendance table for 2024-2025 that breaks costs down into direct and indirect categories across OMS years. This detailed breakdown helps students understand the full financial commitment beyond just tuition.
Residency Placement in the Most Recent Published Class
In its Match Day 2025 announcement, ACOM reported a 99.44% overall residency placement rate for the Class of 2025. This high placement rate demonstrates the school’s success in preparing its students for competitive residency programs across various specialties. Applicants can view this as a strong indicator of the quality of education and support provided by ACOM in the residency application process.
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM)
WVSOM is often discussed as a strong option for applicants who want a rural Appalachian focus and a tight-knit campus environment. It publishes detailed cost and match information that makes it easier to compare objectively. WVSOM’s mission is deeply rooted in serving the healthcare needs of rural West Virginia, and its curriculum and clinical rotations often reflect this commitment.
2025-2026 Tuition, Fees, and Line Items
AACOM lists WVSOM 2024-2025 in-state tuition at $23,594 and out-of-state tuition at $56,394, plus annual resident fees and a health insurance fee. While 2025-2026 tuition has not been officially published, these figures are expected to be similar or slightly higher. WVSOM’s own financial aid pages also publish an education-cost breakdown that includes technology fees and exam-related costs. This comprehensive financial transparency is very helpful for applicants in their planning.
Match Outcomes
WVSOM’s match data page lists a 2025 residency match rate of 100%. This exceptional outcome underscores the school’s ability to prepare its graduates for successful entry into residency programs. The strong focus on primary care and rural medicine also contributes to a high placement rate in needed specialties within the region.
On the day-to-day student experience side, WVSOM has formal policies for school-issued laptops for medical students, which can reduce the uncertainty around required testing hardware and IT support. This practical support helps ensure students have the necessary tools for their demanding academic journey.
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU-COM)
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU-COM) educates osteopathic physicians, scientists, and health professionals with campuses in Kansas City, MO, and Joplin, MO. The college is committed to preparing physicians for careers in medicine, with an emphasis on community health, primary care, and service to underserved populations in the region.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $64,280 for Missouri residents and $69,450 for non-residents.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.61 and the average MCAT score was 504. The class size is approximately 270 students across both campuses.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.3% residency placement rate.
A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM)
A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM), located in Kirksville, MO, holds the distinction as the world’s first osteopathic medical school, founded in 1892. ATSU-KCOM remains dedicated to its legacy of training osteopathic physicians who provide whole-person healthcare, often serving rural and medically underserved communities.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $64,480.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.56 and the average MCAT score was 502. The class size is approximately 170 students.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.4% residency placement rate.
Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine (DMU-COM)
Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine (DMU-COM), situated in Des Moines, IA, prepares osteopathic physicians to deliver patient-centered healthcare. The college emphasizes interprofessional education, research, and a commitment to addressing the diverse health needs of communities in Iowa and globally.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $63,050.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.65 and the average MCAT score was 507. The class size is approximately 220 students.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.5% residency placement rate.
Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (NSU-COM)
Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (NSU-COM) operates campuses in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Clearwater, FL. The college is dedicated to providing comprehensive osteopathic medical education, with a focus on primary care, research, and serving the healthcare needs of diverse patient populations throughout Florida and the southeastern United States.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $65,560 for the Fort Lauderdale campus and $63,490 for the Clearwater campus.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.57 and the average MCAT score was 506. The class size is approximately 420 students across both campuses.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99% residency placement rate.
Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (WesternU COMP)
Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (WesternU COMP) has its primary campus in Pomona, CA, and a second campus, COMP-Northwest, in Lebanon, OR. COMP is committed to educating humanistic and compassionate osteopathic physicians prepared for practice in all medical specialties, with a strong emphasis on primary care and community service.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program at both COMP and COMP-Northwest campuses is $70,895.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.66 and the average MCAT score was 507. The class size is approximately 260 students for COMP and 100 students for COMP-Northwest, totaling about 360 students.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.6% residency placement rate for both COMP and COMP-Northwest graduates.
Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM)
Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM), located in Downers Grove, IL, has been educating osteopathic physicians since 1900. CCOM is dedicated to preparing healthcare professionals to serve the medical needs of the public through a strong foundation in osteopathic principles, scientific knowledge, and clinical proficiency.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $64,745.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.61 and the average MCAT score was 507. The class size is approximately 200 students.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 100% residency placement rate.
Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM)
Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM) operates three campuses: Athens, Dublin, and Cleveland, OH. OU-HCOM is dedicated to educating osteopathic primary care physicians to serve Ohio, particularly in underserved and rural areas. The college emphasizes community health, research, and a patient-centered approach to care.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $43,792 for Ohio residents and $70,862 for non-residents.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.64 and the average MCAT score was 505. The class size is approximately 265 students across all campuses.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.2% residency placement rate.
Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM)
Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM), located in Stratford, NJ, is the only osteopathic medical school in New Jersey. RowanSOM is committed to training highly competent and compassionate osteopathic physicians who provide exceptional healthcare, conduct innovative research, and serve as leaders in medicine, with a particular focus on primary care and underserved communities within New Jersey.
Tuition and Cost
For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for the DO program is $50,560 for New Jersey residents and $83,788 for non-residents.
Admissions Profile
For the matriculating class of 2023-2024, the average GPA was 3.63 and the average MCAT score was 509. The class size is approximately 200 students.
Match and Placement Outcomes
The Class of 2024 achieved a 99.5% residency placement rate.
Building the Application That Gets You In
As a hard-working pre-med student, you want hands-on healthcare experience that proves you understand the clinical environment and can handle responsibility. That experience is not a substitute for grades and test scores, but it can be the factor that makes an admissions reader pause and take you seriously, especially when your story and your service record match a school’s mission. Quality shadowing and clinical experience are vital.
If that is the kind of application you are building, International Medical Aid (IMA) programs are designed to help students gain structured clinical exposure and global health context while staying focused on ethics and learning. Our programs offer the kind of supervised, meaningful experiences that demonstrate commitment and understanding of the healthcare field. To learn what is available and what fits your goals, contact the IMA team.
