If you’re drawn to diagnosing complex problems, building long-term patient relationships, and working at the intersection of science and service, medicine may be a fit for you. Physicians train broadly in medical school and then specialize through residency (and sometimes fellowship). As you explore, you’ll want to think about the kind of environment you thrive in (hospital vs. clinic, fast-paced vs. longitudinal care), the patient populations you’re most interested in serving, and what you want your future scope of practice to look like.

In the U.S., physicians earn either a MD (Doctor of Medicine) or a DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree. Both MDs and DOs are fully licensed physicians who diagnose illness, prescribe medications, perform procedures, and practice in every medical specialty and healthcare setting. The core medical training and residency pathways are largely the same. DO programs include additional training in osteopathic principles and hands-on musculoskeletal techniques, with an emphasis on whole-person, preventative care. As you explore medicine, consider which philosophy and training environment best align with your goals. You can apply to MD programs, DO programs, or both and decide which program to pursue based on the schools you’re accepted to.