Doctor of Medicine (MD)

The Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine is more than just medical school; it’s a launchpad for purpose-driven physicians. Grounded in service, innovation, and academic rigor, the program trains students to become compassionate, highly skilled doctors who are prepared to address the evolving healthcare needs of diverse communities across Oklahoma and beyond.

What is this program/degree?

• A four-year professional doctoral degree that prepares students to practice medicine and become licensed physicians (M.D.).
• Integrates basic sciences, clinical skills, and patient-centered experiences from day one.
• Delivered at two campuses—Oklahoma City and Tulsa—offering flexibility and mission-based learning opportunities.

What can someone pursue in this field of study?

• Medical practice in a wide range of specialties (e.g., family medicine, surgery, psychiatry, pediatrics, internal medicine).
• Clinical research or academic medicine.
• Public health, healthcare administration, or policy leadership roles.
• Dual-degree pathways (M.D./Ph.D.) to expand impact across disciplines.

What can I do with this degree after graduation?

• Apply for and complete a residency program in the U.S. (a required step for medical licensure and practice).
• Match into highly competitive specialties or serve in underserved areas—many OU graduates do both.
• Pursue board certification and establish a long-term career as a practicing physician, medical educator, or healthcare leader.

What makes this program special at the college? 

• Mission-Focused Education: A commitment to improving health outcomes in Oklahoma, particularly in rural and underserved populations.
• Dual-Campus Experience: Students can train at either the Oklahoma City or Tulsa campus, each offering robust clinical exposure and community-focused partnerships.
• Research & Innovation: Access to NIH-funded faculty research, summer research electives, and dedicated support through the Office of Research Education.

The OU College of Medicine offers students two distinct educational tracks to earn a Doctor of Medicine degree: the OU Health Campus in Oklahoma City and the School of Community Medicine (SCM) in Tulsa. Both tracks equip students with the comprehensive knowledge and skills required to excel as well-rounded physicians. Each track offers unique and enriching opportunities.

OU College of Medicine, Oklahoma City: 

At the OU College of Medicine, students benefit from a dynamic learning environment, with access to over 50 accredited specialty and sub-specialty programs and cutting-edge research opportunities. Our comprehensive academic health center, located in the heart of Oklahoma City, offers unparalleled clinical training and exceptional faculty support, preparing you for a distinguished career in medicine. 

Degrees offered: MD, MD/PhD

Located in Downtown Oklahoma City, the OU College of Medicine is the largest of the seven professional colleges on the OU Health Campus and is at the center of OU Health, the premier healthcare provider in Oklahoma, providing 148 various health specialties. OU Health is home to the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 50 children's hospitals in the nation for Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery and Pediatric Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. OU Health is also home to the Stephenson Cancer Center, the state of Oklahoma’s only NCI-Designated Cancer Center, one of only 71 in the nation. Further, the OU Health Medical Center is the state’s only Level 1 Trauma Center. 

OU School of Community Medicine, Tulsa: 

The OU School of Community Medicine (SCM) in Tulsa is dedicated to training the next generation of physicians who are passionate about making a significant difference in their communities. With a focus on primary care and sub-specialties in medicine and surgery, the School of Community Medicine provides a unique and immersive educational experience.

Degrees offered: MD

Students at the School of Community Medicine gain hands-on experience in a variety of clinical environments, including large community hospitals, OU Health clinics, and community physician practices. This diverse training ensures comprehensive exposure to both primary care and specialized medical fields. Community medicine principles are seamlessly integrated into all aspects of learning at SCM. The Summer Institute, for example, brings together students and faculty from various disciplines for an immersive experience in community medicine, highlighting the collaborative nature of healthcare.

Learn more about the School of Community Medicine.

The OU College of Medicine Office of Admissions is committed to supporting prospective students throughout the admissions process. We offer a variety of opportunities to help you learn more about our program, better understand the application process, and receive answers to any additional questions you may have.

• Admissions At-A-Glance Sessions are held multiple times each month. These sessions provide an overview of our campuses, prerequisites, medical experience expectations, application timeline, and what makes a competitive applicant.

• 1-on-1 Advising Appointments are offered virtually on a weekly basis. These individual appointments allow you to speak directly with an admissions counselor and receive personalized guidance. We encourage prospective students to attend an Admissions At-A-Glance Session prior to scheduling a 1-on-1 Advising Appointment.

• Anatomy of an Application Workshops are designed for applicants preparing to apply. This workshop details the application timeline, letters of recommendation, primary and secondary applications, recommendations for completing the experiences section, and more — with insights from current MD students.

• Personal Statement Workshop: NEW! Join us for an interactive workshop packed with strategies for writing a standout personal statement.

REGISTER HERE

• Premed Mentorship: Preparing for medical school is an exciting, life-changing experience. Through the journey, many find it helpful to connect with students who are currently in medical school for support. The OU College of Medicine Admissions Ambassadors offer accessible communication with current medical students through its Premed Mentorship Program. If you would like to connect with a current medical student to learn about curriculum, research, life in Oklahoma City, or life as a OU medical student, our current students are here to help! Click below to get connected:

CONNECT WITH AN AMBASSADOR