What's the deal with DO-BS (Direct-BS/DO) programs?

I've recently heard about DO-BS (Direct-BS/DO) programs and I'm interested in learning more about them. Can someone explain how they work and how to get into these programs? Thanks in advance!

DO-BS (Direct-BS/DO) programs, also known as BS/DO or Bachelors/Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine combined programs, are 7 or 8-year programs that allow students to earn both a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree in a streamlined, accelerated format. These programs are designed for high school seniors who are certain that they want to pursue a career in Osteopathic Medicine. They offer the opportunity for early exposure to medical education and clinical experiences, as well as potential conditional acceptance to a partner DO school.

The structure of these programs usually consists of 3-4 years of undergraduate work, followed by 4 years in an osteopathic medical school. In the undergraduate portion, students complete the pre-med requirements and may major in any field of their choice, depending on the program. After successful completion of the undergraduate phase, students transition to the medical school to earn their Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

To be considered for these highly competitive programs, applicants are typically expected to have a strong high school academic record, high standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and an evident passion for medicine. Some programs also require students to maintain a specific undergraduate GPA and/or achieve a minimum MCAT score to transition from the undergraduate to the medical school phase.

To apply to these DO-BS programs, you'll want to research the specific schools that offer this combined option and carefully review their requirements and deadlines. Some of these programs utilize the Common Application or a specific university application, while others may require the AACOMAS (American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service) application.

A few examples of colleges with DO-BS programs include Nova Southeastern University, Seton Hill University, and KCU partnering with a variety of undergraduate institutions. Keep in mind that while these programs offer a streamlined path to a DO degree, they are not the only way to become an osteopathic physician. Many students follow a more traditional route, applying to medical schools after completing their undergraduate degrees.

To improve your chances of admission, it's essential to research the specific DO-BS programs you're interested in and tailor your application to showcase your dedication to the medical field, strong academics, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work related to healthcare and osteopathic medicine. Be sure to also include strong letters of recommendation from teachers and professionals who can speak to your aptitude for medical studies.