Best Medical Schools in Oklahoma

Oklahoma is home to several excellent medical schools that offer comprehensive training to aspiring physicians, with an emphasis on serving rural and underserved communities. Medical education in Oklahoma is rooted in a commitment to primary care, clinical research, and public health. The state’s medical schools provide diverse opportunities for students to gain hands-on clinical experience, conduct research, and contribute to improving healthcare access across the state.

University of Oklahoma College of Medicine

Overview of University of Oklahoma College of Medicine

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine (OU College of Medicine), located in Oklahoma City, is one of the leading medical schools in the state and the region. Founded in 1900, the school has a long history of providing excellent medical education, research, and patient care. OU College of Medicine is part of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), a comprehensive academic health center that includes multiple health-related colleges and a large teaching hospital.

The college is known for its focus on rural health, clinical training, and research in areas such as cancer, neuroscience, and cardiovascular disease. It also emphasizes community service and healthcare leadership, preparing students to address the healthcare needs of Oklahoma’s diverse population.

Key Features of OU College of Medicine

M.D. Program

• Four-Year Curriculum: The M.D. program at OU College of Medicine follows a traditional four-year curriculum. The first two years focus on foundational medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. During the third and fourth years, students complete clinical rotations in a variety of specialties, such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and psychiatry.
• Early Clinical Exposure: OU College of Medicine emphasizes early clinical exposure, with students beginning to engage with patients as early as their first year. This exposure includes clinical skills training, standardized patient encounters, and simulation-based learning, helping students develop their clinical skills early in their medical education.
• Rural Medical Track (RMT): The Rural Medical Track (RMT) is a specialized program designed for students interested in practicing medicine in rural and underserved areas of Oklahoma. Students in the RMT complete clinical rotations in rural communities, where they gain hands-on experience in primary care, emergency medicine, and rural healthcare delivery. This track helps address the physician shortage in rural Oklahoma by encouraging students to pursue careers in these areas.
• Dual-Degree Programs: OU College of Medicine offers several dual-degree programs, including the M.D./Ph.D., M.D./MPH, and M.D./MBA. These programs allow students to combine their medical education with advanced training in research, public health, or healthcare management, providing a well-rounded education that prepares them for leadership roles in healthcare.

Clinical Training and Facilities

• OU Medical Center: Clinical training at OU College of Medicine takes place primarily at OU Medical Center, the state’s largest teaching hospital. OU Medical Center is a Level I trauma center and provides students with exposure to a wide variety of medical conditions and patient populations. The hospital is known for its expertise in trauma care, neurology, oncology, and cardiovascular care.
• Stephenson Cancer Center: OU College of Medicine is affiliated with the Stephenson Cancer Center, one of the top cancer centers in the region. Students interested in oncology can participate in clinical rotations and research projects at the cancer center, gaining experience in the latest cancer treatments and therapies.
• Community Health and Rural Rotations: In addition to rotations at OU Medical Center, students have the opportunity to complete clinical rotations in rural hospitals and community health centers across Oklahoma. These rotations expose students to the unique challenges of providing healthcare in rural settings, including limited access to medical resources and specialized care.

Research and Innovation

• National Institutes of Health (NIH) Funding: OU College of Medicine is a leader in biomedical research, receiving significant funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The school conducts research in a wide range of fields, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, neuroscience, and infectious diseases. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects and work alongside faculty members who are leading experts in their fields.
• Harold Hamm Diabetes Center: The Harold Hamm Diabetes Center at OUHSC is dedicated to diabetes research, prevention, and treatment. Students can participate in research projects that focus on understanding the causes of diabetes, developing new treatments, and improving patient outcomes.
• Clinical and Translational Science: OU College of Medicine emphasizes clinical and translational research, aiming to bring scientific discoveries from the laboratory to the clinic. The school’s Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Science Institute (OCTSI) supports research that improves patient care and outcomes.

Community Engagement and Public Health

• Community Service and Outreach: OU College of Medicine is deeply committed to community service, and students are encouraged to participate in outreach programs that provide healthcare services to underserved populations. These programs include health fairs, free clinics, and mobile health units that travel to rural areas to provide care.
• Public Health Initiatives: OU College of Medicine integrates public health education into its curriculum, preparing students to address healthcare disparities and the social determinants of health. The school offers a dual-degree M.D./MPH program for students interested in combining clinical medicine with public health.

Admissions and Application Process

Admission to the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is competitive, with the following key considerations:

• MCAT Scores and GPA: The average MCAT score for admitted students typically ranges from 508 to 512, with an average GPA of around 3.7. OU College of Medicine values strong academic performance, particularly in science coursework.
• Clinical Experience and Community Service: OU College of Medicine looks for applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities, particularly through clinical experience and volunteer work in healthcare settings. Shadowing physicians, volunteering at hospitals or clinics, and participating in public health initiatives are important components of a strong application.
• Research Experience: While research experience is not required, it is highly valued, especially for students interested in pursuing a career in academic medicine or biomedical research. Participation in research projects or internships can enhance an application.
• Personal Statement and Interviews: A compelling personal statement that reflects the applicant’s motivation for pursuing medicine, leadership experience, and commitment to patient care is essential. Strong letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or healthcare professionals are also critical.

Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Overview of Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (OSU-COM), located in Tulsa, is a leading osteopathic medical school that emphasizes primary care, holistic patient care, and rural medicine. Founded in 1972, OSU-COM is dedicated to training physicians who are committed to serving underserved populations, particularly in rural areas. The school offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) program and focuses on the principles of osteopathic medicine, which include treating the whole person and using hands-on osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).

Key Features of OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine

D.O. Program

• Osteopathic Philosophy: The D.O. program at OSU-COM emphasizes the osteopathic philosophy of healthcare, which focuses on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of disease. Students are trained in Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness by manipulating the musculoskeletal system.
• Four-Year Curriculum: The D.O. program follows a four-year curriculum that integrates basic sciences and clinical training. The first two years focus on foundational medical knowledge, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, as well as training in OMT techniques. The third and fourth years are dedicated to clinical rotations in various specialties, such as family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, and pediatrics.
• Rural Medical Education Program (RMEP): OSU-COM offers a Rural Medical Education Program (RMEP), which is designed for students who are interested in practicing medicine in rural and underserved areas of Oklahoma. The program includes rural clinical rotations, telemedicine training, and specialized coursework focused on the unique challenges of rural healthcare delivery.

Clinical Training and Facilities

• OSU Medical Center: Clinical training at OSU-COM takes place primarily at OSU Medical Center, the largest osteopathic teaching hospital in the country. Students gain hands-on experience in treating a wide range of medical conditions and work closely with attending physicians and residents in specialties such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine.
• Rural Clinical Rotations: One of the hallmarks of OSU-COM is its commitment to rural medicine. Students have the opportunity to complete clinical rotations in rural hospitals and clinics across Oklahoma, where they gain experience in providing care to underserved populations. These rotations prepare students for the challenges of practicing medicine in rural settings, where access to healthcare resources may be limited.
• Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) Training: OSU-COM is equipped with state-of-the-art OMM labs, where students practice osteopathic manipulative techniques under the guidance of experienced faculty. OMT is an essential part of the D.O. curriculum and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, respiratory issues, and digestive disorders.

Research and Innovation

• Research Opportunities for Students: OSU-COM encourages students to engage in research, particularly in areas related to osteopathic medicine, rural health, and primary care. The school offers research opportunities through partnerships with healthcare organizations and faculty-led projects. Students can participate in research that explores the effectiveness of OMT, chronic disease management, and healthcare delivery in rural areas.
• Focus on Primary Care and Public Health: OSU-COM has a strong focus on primary care and public health, with many students pursuing careers in family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. The school integrates public health education into its curriculum, preparing students to address healthcare disparities and promote preventive care in their communities.

Community Health and Rural Initiatives

• Community Service and Outreach: OSU-COM is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of Oklahoma’s underserved populations. Students participate in community service projects, health fairs, and free clinics that provide healthcare services to low-income and rural communities. These experiences allow students to develop their clinical skills while making a positive impact on their communities.
• Telemedicine and Rural Healthcare Delivery: OSU-COM is a leader in the use of telemedicine to improve healthcare access in rural areas. The school’s telemedicine program allows students to participate in virtual consultations with patients in remote locations, providing care for individuals who may not have access to healthcare services in their communities.

Admissions and Application Process

Admission to Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine is competitive, with the school seeking students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to osteopathic principles. Key admissions criteria include:

• MCAT Scores and GPA: The average MCAT score for admitted students typically ranges from 500 to 505, with an average GPA of around 3.5. OSU-COM values applicants who have a strong academic foundation, particularly in science coursework.
• Commitment to Osteopathic Medicine: OSU-COM looks for applicants who have a clear understanding of and commitment to the principles of osteopathic medicine. Shadowing a D.O. or participating in osteopathic clinical experiences is highly recommended.
• Clinical Experience and Community Service: Clinical experience, such as shadowing physicians, volunteering in healthcare settings, or working as a healthcare professional, is a critical component of the admissions process. OSU-COM also values applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to serving rural and underserved populations.
• Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation: A compelling personal statement that reflects the applicant’s motivation for pursuing osteopathic medicine, leadership experience, and commitment to patient care is essential. Strong letters of recommendation from healthcare professionals, mentors, or professors are also important.

Oklahoma Christian University – Pre-Medical Programs

Overview of Oklahoma Christian University Pre-Medical Programs

Oklahoma Christian University (OCU), located in Edmond, offers pre-medical programs designed to prepare students for admission to medical school. While OCU does not have its own medical school, it provides the foundational education needed for students to successfully apply to medical schools, including OU College of Medicine and OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. OCU’s pre-medical advising and coursework help students build the academic, clinical, and research experience necessary for a successful medical career.

Key Features of OCU Pre-Medical Programs

Pre-Medical Advising

• Comprehensive Pre-Medical Advising: OCU offers pre-medical advising services that help students navigate the medical school application process. Advisors work closely with students to ensure they complete the necessary prerequisite courses, gain clinical experience, and prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).
• Preparation for Medical School Admission: OCU’s pre-medical program includes guidance on building a competitive medical school application. Advisors help students select extracurricular activities, community service opportunities, and leadership roles that will strengthen their application to medical school.

Pre-Medical Coursework

• Science-Focused Majors: OCU offers undergraduate majors in biological sciences, chemistry, and biochemistry, all of which provide a strong foundation for students pursuing a career in medicine. These programs include courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, which are required for admission to most medical schools.
• Hands-On Laboratory Experience: OCU’s pre-medical students gain hands-on experience in laboratory courses that emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills. These laboratory experiences help students develop a deep understanding of scientific principles and prepare them for the rigors of medical school.

Clinical Experience and Volunteer Opportunities

• Clinical Shadowing and Internships: OCU pre-medical students are encouraged to gain clinical experience through shadowing physicians, volunteering in hospitals or clinics, and participating in internships. These experiences provide students with insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare professionals and help them develop important patient care skills.
• Community Service and Public Health Initiatives: OCU offers students the opportunity to participate in community service and public health initiatives that focus on improving healthcare access and outcomes in Oklahoma. These experiences allow students to contribute to their communities while gaining valuable experience in healthcare delivery.

Research Opportunities

• Undergraduate Research Programs: OCU offers undergraduate research opportunities in fields such as biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. Pre-medical students can work with faculty members on research projects related to biomedical science, public health, and healthcare disparities.
• Summer Research Fellowships: OCU provides summer research fellowships that allow students to conduct research during the summer months. These fellowships are designed to give students hands-on experience in scientific research and prepare them for the research demands of medical school.