D.O.'s are more likely than M.D.'s to practice in small cities and towns and in rural areas. M.D.'s tend to locate in urban areas, close to hospital and educational centers. Osteopathic physicians locate chiefly in States that have osteopathic schools and hospitals. A few medical schools offer a combined undergraduate and medical school program that lasts 6 years instead of the customary 8 years. Premedical students must complete undergraduate work in physics, biology, mathematics, English, and inorganic and organic chemistry.
Students also take courses in the humanities and the social sciences.
Some students also volunteer at local hospitals or clinics to gain practical experience in the health professions. Acceptance to medical school is very competitive. Applicants must submit transcripts, scores from the Medical College Admission Test, and letters of recommendation. Schools also consider character, personality, leadership qualities, and participation in extracurricular activities. Most schools require an interview with members of the admissions committee.