Welcome to Washington, DC best medical schools. Our rankings are based on alumni reviews, research scores received, peer institution assessment and admissions statistics including averaged MCAT scores, undergraduate GPA as well as acceptance rates. Below we list top medical schools in Washington, DC that are top ranked nationally. You can find tuition cost, total enrollment and composite MCAT score for each school.
Top Medical Schools in Washington, DC
National Ranking | Best Medical Programs |
48 | Georgetown University (Washington, DC) Acceptance rate: 3.6% MCAT composite score: 10.4 Tuition: Full-time: $44,641 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.61 Total medical school enrollment: 803 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 2.2:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $179.6 |
55 | George Washington University (Washington, DC) Acceptance rate: 2.5% MCAT composite score: 10.2 Tuition: Full-time: $49,661 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.71 Total medical school enrollment: 716 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 1.2:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $98.6 |
All Medical Schools in Washington DC
Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is home to several prestigious medical schools known for their rigorous academic programs, diverse clinical opportunities, and commitment to serving both local and global communities. Medical schools in Washington, D.C. attract students from all over the country and the world, offering a range of degree programs and specializations.
1. George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences (GW SMHS)
Overview
The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences (GW SMHS) is one of the oldest medical schools in the nation, located in the heart of Washington, D.C. The school is renowned for its emphasis on public health, global health, and service to the underserved. Students benefit from close proximity to major hospitals, research institutions, and health policy organizations, providing them with unique opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at GW SMHS focuses on a patient-centered curriculum that incorporates early clinical exposure, interdisciplinary learning, and research opportunities.
- MD/PhD Program: This combined degree is for students interested in careers in academic medicine and medical research.
- MD/MPH: This dual degree allows students to earn both an MD and a Master of Public Health, preparing them for leadership roles in public health.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): A program designed to train students in advanced physical therapy practices.
- Health Sciences Programs: Master’s and PhD programs in fields such as biomedical informatics, clinical research, and translational health sciences.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 512.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.71.
- Prerequisite Courses: Biology, Chemistry (General and Organic), Physics, Mathematics, and English.
- Clinical Experience: Applicants are expected to have significant healthcare exposure, including shadowing, volunteering, or working in a clinical setting.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three to five letters, with at least one from a science professor and one from a healthcare provider.
- Interview Process: GW SMHS uses a traditional interview format as well as the Multiple Mini-Interview (MMI) to assess applicants’ communication skills and ethical reasoning.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from GW SMHS pursue a variety of specialties, with competitive starting salaries:
- Primary Care Physicians: $190,000 to $240,000
- Specialists: $250,000 to $320,000, depending on the field of specialization
2. Georgetown University School of Medicine
Overview
Georgetown University School of Medicine is a prestigious Jesuit medical school located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The school integrates its Jesuit values, focusing on cura personalis, or “care of the whole person,” into its medical education. Georgetown is renowned for its excellence in research, clinical care, and medical ethics. Students have access to numerous hospitals and research centers, including the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program emphasizes medical ethics, clinical exposure, and research, with a strong focus on providing compassionate care.
- MD/PhD Program: This dual degree prepares students for careers as physician-scientists, combining medical education with research training.
- MD/MBA: A dual degree that combines medical training with business administration, preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare management.
- MD/MPH: A dual degree program focused on public health and medicine, equipping students to address population health challenges.
- Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences: A research-based program designed for students interested in advancing their knowledge in biomedical sciences.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 512.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.74.
- Prerequisite Courses: Required courses include Biology, Chemistry (General and Organic), Physics, and Mathematics.
- Clinical Experience: Georgetown strongly encourages applicants to have clinical experience, such as shadowing, volunteering, or working in healthcare settings.
- Letters of Recommendation: At least three letters are required, including one from a science professor and one from a healthcare professional.
- Interview Process: Georgetown uses a traditional interview process with an emphasis on the school’s Jesuit values and commitment to patient-centered care.
Starting Salaries
Georgetown graduates have access to a wide range of specialties, with starting salaries that reflect their training:
- Primary Care Physicians: $195,000 to $240,000
- Specialists: $260,000 to $320,000, depending on the specialty
3. Howard University College of Medicine
Overview
Howard University College of Medicine, located in Washington, D.C., is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious historically Black medical schools. Howard has a long history of training African American physicians and is committed to serving underserved populations and promoting diversity in the medical profession. The college provides students with a strong foundation in clinical skills and public health, with a particular emphasis on addressing health disparities.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at Howard emphasizes clinical training, public health, and cultural competency, preparing students to work with diverse populations.
- MD/PhD Program: This dual degree allows students to pursue careers in academic medicine and research.
- Master of Public Health (MPH): A program designed for students interested in leadership roles in public health, with a focus on underserved populations.
- Master’s Programs in Biomedical Sciences: Offers degrees in areas such as anatomy, microbiology, and pharmacology for students interested in research or academic careers.
- Graduate Medical Education (GME): Howard supports residency training in several medical specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, and surgery.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 504.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.4.
- Prerequisite Courses: Required courses include Biology, Chemistry (General and Organic), Physics, and English.
- Clinical Experience: Howard places strong emphasis on clinical experience, with applicants expected to have hands-on exposure to healthcare environments, particularly in underserved communities.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must provide three letters of recommendation, with one from a healthcare provider.
- Interview Process: Howard uses a traditional interview format, with a focus on the applicant’s commitment to underserved populations and addressing health disparities.
Starting Salaries
Howard graduates often go into primary care or specialties focused on underserved populations. Typical starting salaries include:
- Primary Care Physicians: $180,000 to $225,000
- Specialists: $230,000 to $290,000, depending on the field
4. Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) – F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine
Overview
The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), located in Bethesda, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C., is unique among U.S. medical schools. It trains physicians to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces and the Public Health Service. USUHS provides a comprehensive education in medicine, public health, and leadership, with a focus on military medicine and global health. Students are commissioned as officers in the military and receive tuition-free education in exchange for their service commitment.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at USUHS focuses on military medicine, with training in trauma, emergency medicine, and global health.
- MD/PhD Program: This dual degree is designed for students interested in combining medical training with research in military medicine.
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH): A program for students interested in leadership roles in public health and preventive medicine.
- Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH): Focuses on public health issues affecting military personnel and their families.
- Graduate Medical Education (GME): USUHS supports residency and fellowship programs in various medical specialties for military physicians.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 509.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.6.
- Prerequisite Courses: Biology, Chemistry (General and Organic), Physics, and Mathematics are required.
- Military Service Commitment: Students must commit to serving in the U.S. military or Public Health Service after graduation.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required, with one from a science professor and one from a healthcare professional.
- Interview Process: The interview process focuses on the applicant’s leadership potential, commitment to military service, and interest in global health and trauma care.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from USUHS enter military service, where they earn competitive salaries and benefits:
- Military Physicians (Primary Care): $120,000 to $150,000, plus military benefits
- Military Specialists: $180,000 to $220,000, depending on specialty and rank