College of Osteopathic Medicine

A College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM) is a higher education institution that trains students to become physicians specializing in osteopathic medicine, a licensed medical practice focusing on holistic patient care. Unlike MD programs, osteopathic training emphasizes understanding how the body's systems are interconnected and incorporates hands-on techniques called osteopathic manipulative treatment to diagnose and treat conditions. Graduates earn Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degrees and are fully licensed to practice medicine, prescribe medication, and perform surgeries, often with an emphasis on preventative care and patient-centered approaches.