If you’re a pre-med student exploring paths to becoming a physician, chances are you’ve heard of both MD (Doctor of Medicine) and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degrees. While MDs and DOs are both fully licensed physicians in the United States, many pre-meds are still unsure about what sets DO programs apart—and unfortunately, there are a lot of myths floating around that can make the decision even more confusing.
Let’s debunk five of the most common myths about DO programs so you can make an informed decision about your future in medicine.
Myth #1: DOs Aren’t “Real” Doctors
DOs are fully licensed physicians who complete four years of medical school, pass board exams, and undergo residency training—just like MDs. They can prescribe medication, perform surgery, and practice in every medical specialty.
In fact, DOs are recognized in all 50 states and in over 65 countries worldwide. The idea that DOs are somehow “less than” MDs is outdated and simply incorrect.
Myth #2: DOs Can’t Match into Competitive Specialties
DO students can and do match into competitive specialties like dermatology, orthopedic surgery, and radiology. The key factors in matching—strong board scores, clinical evaluations, research experience, and networking—apply to both MD and DO applicants.
While it’s true that some competitive specialties have historically accepted fewer DOs, that’s changing rapidly, especially since the residency match system became unified under a single accreditation system in 2020. According to the American Medical Association, 2025 match rates were 93.5% for MD students and 92.6% for DO students.
Myth #3: DO Schools Are a “Backup Plan” for People Who Can’t Get into MD Programs
This myth stems from misconceptions about admissions standards. While some DO schools may have slightly lower average MCAT or GPA requirements, they also emphasize holistic review.
That means they look closely at your motivation for medicine, your empathy, and your experiences with underserved populations. Many applicants choose DO programs as their first choice because they align with osteopathic values like whole-person care and preventive medicine.
Myth #4: Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) Is Pseudoscience
OMM is a hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions that’s grounded in anatomy and physiology. While not all DOs use OMM in their practice, many find it to be a valuable additional tool—especially in primary care, sports medicine, and pain management.
Like any medical technique, its effectiveness depends on the condition, the provider’s training, and the patient’s needs. It’s a supplement, not a substitute, for conventional medicine. This page from the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine explains OMM in more detail.
Myth #5: A DO Degree Will Limit Your Career Options
DOs are found in every field of medicine—from rural family clinics to top-tier academic hospitals. You can become a cardiologist, emergency physician, psychiatrist, or even a medical school dean with a DO degree.
In fact, the number of DOs in leadership roles, academic medicine, and research is steadily growing. Your degree doesn’t define your potential—you do.
Which Should You Choose: MD or DO?
Choosing between MD and DO programs should come down to your values, learning preferences, and long-term goals—not myths or outdated biases. Both paths can lead to a rewarding and impactful career in medicine.
If you’re someone who values a holistic approach, wants a hands-on education, and is open to multiple pathways into medicine, DO programs are absolutely worth your consideration. At the end of the day, your dedication, compassion, and clinical skills will matter far more than the letters after your name.
Want to boost your credentials before applying to a DO program? Our Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) curriculum can help. Plus, some of our University Partners have linkage opportunities with DO programs. Find the partner school for you here.
