In the United States, osteopathic doctors fall under the same laws as medical doctors. The profession is strictly regulated and licensed in all states. While other professions may legally use certain osteopathic techniques, such as craniosacral manipulation, only a licensed DO may practice as a doctor of osteopathic medicine or osteopath. The osteopathic colleges require a typical pre-med BA or BS degree be completed prior to entering the school. Undergraduate work should emphasize the biological sciences, chemistry, and other courses helpful to a medical student.
Tuition varies widely.
Many U.S. osteopathic colleges are part of a state university system. All U.S. osteopathic colleges provide the standard financial aid packages such as student loans. Many of the state osteopathic associations also have scholarships available for students. In the U.S., the standard curriculum takes four years to complete. The length of residency training is determined by the speciality selected by the student.