DO Schools in Florida

Hey everyone! I'm planning on applying to a few DO schools and I'd love to stay in Florida because of family. Can y'all recommend some reputable DO schools in Florida? Any input on their programs, pros and cons would be super helpful. Thanks a bunch!

Hello! Florida offers several reputable DO schools that you can consider. I'll discuss three of them, along with some pros and cons of each.

1. Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine (NSU-KPCOM): Located in Fort Lauderdale, NSU-KPCOM offers a comprehensive curriculum and numerous opportunities for research, community outreach, and clinical experiences. The school has two campuses - one in Fort Lauderdale and a newer campus in Clearwater.

Pros: The school boasts impressive facilities, a diverse student body, and experienced faculty. Students receive early clinical exposure and can participate in various research projects and global health initiatives.

Cons: Cost of attendance may be a concern for some students, as Nova Southeastern is a private institution. Additionally, the Clearwater campus is newer, so expect the facilities and opportunities to expand over time.

2. Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) - Bradenton Campus: LECOM is well-established and has a strong reputation for its osteopathic program, with additional campuses in Pennsylvania and New York.

Pros: LECOM is known for its lower tuition costs, providing better affordability for students. It offers multiple academic pathways or learning formats, including a traditional lecture-based format, a problem-based learning format, and an independent study format.

Cons: The campus itself is relatively small, which may not appeal to students who prefer a larger campus experience. Additionally, the surrounding area of Bradenton is considered quieter compared to other locations in Florida.

3. Florida State University (FSU) College of Osteopathic Medicine - Tallahassee: FSU's osteopathic program has a strong emphasis on primary care and serving rural communities, with additional regional campuses in Daytona Beach, Fort Pierce, Orlando, Pensacola, and Sarasota.

Pros: As part of the Florida State University, the College of Osteopathic Medicine benefits from the resources available at a large public institution. Students receive extensive clinical experience across the regional campuses and have access to a wide variety of research opportunities.

Cons: FSU's osteopathic program has a focus on rural medicine and primary care, so students interested in pursuing highly specialized fields may find it less ideal.

Overall, each of these DO schools has its strengths and areas of focus. Consider attending open houses or virtual events to learn more about the programs, curriculum, and campus culture to determine which school is the best fit for you. Good luck with your applications!