The doctor of medicine (MD) was one of the first degree programs established in the United States. MD candidates must first obtain a bachelor's degree in a science such as biology or organic chemistry before enrolling in a medical school program. Students may study a medical specialty en route to the degree. Internships and other practice-based learning enhance preparation of medical students for work as physicians.
Similar to the MD, a doctorate of osteopathic medicine is a full medical degree. Candidates may study a specialty or general medicine. Residency and internship programs are also required for completion of the degree. However, DO education focuses on healing the person as a whole rather than treating one part of the body. A common method of practice is to ensure that the body's natural healing capacity is unobstructed and can move freely. In addition, the DO degree requires an additional 300 hours to 500 hours of study of manual medicine, which relies on the movement and adjustment of bones, joints and muscles in the body.
Degree programs in medical research offer PhDs to graduating students. Common PhD programs in medicine include immunology and virology, as well as biological and biomedical sciences. PhD recipients pursue careers conducting research to find cures or innovative treatments for medical conditions. Some research may include developing new drugs or studying the cause for obesity, Alzheimer's disease or AIDS.
A variety of degrees are available to individuals who wish to become nurses. Vocational degrees such as licensed practicing nurse, licensed vocational nurse and registered nurse are available for quick entry into the career field. Bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees are also available to nurses who desire to do research and theory-based study. Registered nurses interested in becoming nurse practitioners can pursue a master's degree in nursing with a nurse practitioner concentration. Some schools offer future nurse practitioners a clinical master's degree in nursing.
Vocational and trade programs are available to individuals who wish to work in supporting roles within the medical field. Technical degrees provide skills-based education for careers in sonography, radiology and medical information management, as well for positions as a laboratory technician or medical technician. Students learn hands-on, focused training that will allow graduates to move immediately from the classroom to the work force.