Which degrees do graduates of U.S. medical schools receive?

Graduates of U.S. medical schools receive one of two primary professional degrees: the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.).12

• Doctor of Medicine (M.D.): This degree focuses on allopathic medicine, which is the traditional approach to treating disease through medication, surgery, and other clinical interventions.1
• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.): This qualification focuses on osteopathic medicine, an approach that emphasizes treating the body as a whole system, including the mind and body connection.1

While the two degrees originate from different educational philosophies, the coursework and clinical training for both are very similar. In the United States, both the M.D. and D.O. degrees confer the same legal authority and capacity to practice medicine as a physician. After earning their respective degrees, graduates must complete a medical residency to become board-certified in their chosen specialty.1