Medical School Study

In the United States and Canada, medical school study typically takes four years to complete after earning a bachelor's degree. Some programs offer accelerated options that can be completed in three years. Following medical school, graduates must complete a residency program, which can last from three to seven years, depending on the chosen specialty.

Common prerequisites include courses in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Many schools also recommend courses in biochemistry, psychology, and sociology. A strong performance on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is also essential.

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine. It is administered by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and is a crucial part of the medical school application process.

Medical school is highly competitive. The acceptance rate varies from school to school, but generally, only a small percentage of applicants are accepted each year. Factors that influence admission include GPA, MCAT score, extracurricular activities, research experience, and letters of recommendation.

Clinical rotations, also known as clerkships, are a core part of medical school study during the clinical years (typically years 3 and 4). Students rotate through various medical specialties (e.g., internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics) and gain hands-on experience in patient care under the supervision of attending physicians, residents, and fellows. This involves interviewing patients, performing physical exams, ordering and interpreting tests, and participating in treatment planning.

Residency is a period of postgraduate medical training in a specific medical specialty (e.g., internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics). After graduating from medical school, physicians must complete a residency program to become licensed to practice medicine independently. The length of residency varies depending on the specialty, ranging from three to seven years.

Medical school study is incredibly demanding. Some challenges include the heavy workload, the fast pace of learning, the emotional toll of dealing with sick patients, financial burdens from tuition, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Stress management and self-care are crucial for success.

Both MD (Doctor of Medicine) and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) are fully licensed physicians who can practice medicine in the United States. MDs attend allopathic medical schools, while DOs attend osteopathic medical schools. DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal problems. However, both MDs and DOs can specialize in any area of medicine.

The cost of medical school can vary widely depending on the school (public vs. private) and location. Tuition and fees can range from $30,000 to over $70,000 per year. Additional expenses include living costs, books, and other educational materials. Many students rely on student loans to finance their medical education.