Medical Doctor (MD) vs Doctor of Osteopathy (DO)

What’s right for you?

That’s up to you to decide but we are here to help provide you information and resources.

MD or DO:
What’s the Difference?
Where Do They Overlap?

Deciding on an MD or DO school is a big decision. Take a look at our comparison chart to evaluate the medical focuses and benefits of each degree track, as well as a look at the similarities they share.

If You Are Uncertain Which Path to Take, Consider the Following:

Established Reputation

MD programs have a long-standing history and are widely recognized as the traditional pathway to becoming a physician. American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) was founded in 1978 and has graduated more than 7500 doctors.

Research Opportunities

MD programs offer abundant research opportunities, grants, and collaborations with renowned institutions, fostering scientific exploration and specialization. Research exposure gained during an MD program is invaluable for advancing medical knowledge and pursuing academic careers.

Global Recognition

The MD degree enjoys global recognition and understanding, making it advantageous for those aspiring to practice medicine internationally. Many healthcare systems around the world recognize MD qualifications, simplifying licensure and certification processes in different regions. The portability of an MD degree provides flexibility for pursuing international opportunities, participating in medical missions, or engaging in global health initiatives.

According to the American Osteopathic Association, many countries have not licensed a US DO for practice.

Residency Program and Specialty Selection

While both MDs and DOs can specialize in various fields, certain competitive specialties, such as neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and dermatology, are more commonly filled by MDs. The flexibility in residency options allows MD graduates to pursue highly specialized areas of medicine and sub-specialties, aligning with their specific interests and career goals.

How Does AUC Fit In?

We offer an MD degree with a curriculum focused on the whole body.

AUC’s integrated organ systems-based curriculum focuses on learning about the mind and body as a whole. You will learn about social determinants of health, public health, psychosocial and ethical considerations in a patient-centered and evidence-based curriculum.

As a physician you choose your approach to care—if you value being holistic you can, and should, incorporate this into your practice.

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A Record of Success

AUC has provided medical education for over 40 years and has more than 7,500 graduates.

1:1 Dedicated Support

From your very first day you'll have access to teams and resources dedicated to supporting your success.

Quality Clinical Training

Experience an array of clinical training opportunities while rotating at one of our affiliated hospital sites.

Early Hands on Community Involvement

Students participate in a wide range of community service activities for volunteer projects in Sint Maarten.

Global Elective Sites

AUC students have the opportunity to complete the six-week clinical rotation in one of five countries: Vietnam, India, the Dominican Republic, Uganda, or Zimbabwe.

Accredited MD Program

American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine (ACCM, www.accredmed.org), which is the accreditor used by the country of St. Maarten. Our accreditation standards have been deemed comparable to U.S. medical school requirement

Difference Between MD and DO

When you say that you are going to see a doctor, you may be referring to two types of medical professionals: MDs and DOs. Each title refers to the type of degree and licensing the doctor has. Both MDs and DOs have similar training and duties, but they differ in a few key areas.

MD vs. DO: What's the Difference?

They practice medicine similarly, but DOs have a unique focus on the mind, body, spirit connection. Medicine is a favorite topic of television shows. If you’re a fan of Meredith Grey, Gregory House or Doogie Howser, you know all these fictional characters are MDs.