Are you thinking about applying to medical school in North Carolina? Known for its stunning natural landscapes, warm Southern charm, affordable living, and medical schools dedicated to serving underserved communities, the Tar Heel State offers a unique environment for aspiring physicians. With a mix of research-focused programs and primary care training, North Carolina provides a wealth of opportunities for future doctors.
But what’s it really like to attend medical school in North Carolina, and how can you increase your chances of acceptance?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pursuing medical school in North Carolina, including the locations of medical schools, what life is like in the state, how to apply, and tips for securing a spot at one of its prestigious institutions.
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- 1 How Many Medical Schools Are in North Carolina?
- 2 List of Medical Schools in North Carolina
- 3 North Carolina Medical School Locations
- 4 How Much Is Medical School Tuition in North Carolina?
- 5 What It’s Like to Attend Medical School in North Carolina
- 6 How to Apply to North Carolina Medical Schools (MD)
- 7 How to Apply to Osteopathic Medical Schools in North Carolina
- 8 Tips for Gaining Acceptance
- 9 Is North Carolina Right for You?
- 10 Final Thoughts
How Many Medical Schools Are in North Carolina?
North Carolina is home to five medical schools: four allopathic (MD) programs and one osteopathic (DO) program.
List of Medical Schools in North Carolina
Allopathic Medical Schools (MD)
- Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University (BSOM)
Established in 1974, BSOM focuses on training primary care physicians to serve North Carolina, particularly in underserved areas. The school only accepts in-state applicants.- Curriculum: Divided into three phases: Foundational, Clinical, and Differentiation.
- Median GPA/MCAT: 3.73 GPA, 507 MCAT.
- Duke University School of Medicine
Founded in 1930, Duke emphasizes research and leadership in medicine. Its accelerated curriculum allows students to pursue independent research in their third year.- Median GPA/MCAT: 3.92 GPA, 520 MCAT.
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine (UNC)
Established in 1879, UNC’s mission is to improve health through education, research, and patient care. Its new curriculum, TEC 2.0, integrates foundational and clinical sciences.- Median GPA/MCAT: 3.82 GPA, 516 MCAT.
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Founded in 1902, Wake Forest emphasizes community service and interprofessional learning. Its “Wake Ready!” curriculum includes a unique “Houses” system for mentorship.- Median GPA/MCAT: 3.85 GPA, 512 MCAT.
Osteopathic Medical School (DO)
- Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM)
Established in 2011, CUSOM trains osteopathic physicians to serve rural and underserved populations.- Average GPA/MCAT: 3.66 GPA, 507 MCAT.
North Carolina Medical School Locations
- Brody School of Medicine: Greenville
- Duke University School of Medicine: Durham
- UNC School of Medicine: Chapel Hill
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine: Winston-Salem (with a secondary campus in Charlotte)
- Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine: Lillington
North Carolina’s diverse geography ranges from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coast, offering a mix of urban and rural settings. However, having a car is essential for getting around, especially in rural areas.
How Much Is Medical School Tuition in North Carolina?
Here’s a breakdown of tuition costs for 2024 (in-state vs. out-of-state):
- Brody School of Medicine: $25,295 (in-state only)
- Duke University School of Medicine: $70,347
- UNC School of Medicine: 34,706(in−state),34,706(in−state),62,666 (out-of-state)
- Wake Forest University School of Medicine: $63,674
- Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine: $59,080
What It’s Like to Attend Medical School in North Carolina
North Carolina offers a mix of natural beauty, mild winters, and warm summers. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, kayaking, and beach trips. However, the state is prone to hurricanes and extreme weather.
The culture is deeply rooted in Southern hospitality, with a strong emphasis on community and tradition. You’ll encounter diverse patient populations, including rural and underserved communities, and address public health challenges like heart disease, HIV, and opioid addiction.
How to Apply to North Carolina Medical Schools (MD)
- Application Requirements:
- Submit your primary application through AMCAS.
- Include transcripts, MCAT scores, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a Work and Activities section.
- Some schools require situational judgment tests like Casper.
- Application Deadlines:
- AMCAS opens in May, and submissions begin in late May or early June. Apply early to maximize your chances.
How to Apply to Osteopathic Medical Schools in North Carolina
- Apply through AACOMAS, the centralized application service for DO schools.
- Highlight your interest in osteopathic medicine and include a letter of recommendation from a DO.
Tips for Gaining Acceptance
- Understand the Culture and Patient Population:
Be prepared to work with diverse populations, including rural and underserved communities. - Research Each School’s Focus:
While most NC schools emphasize primary care, Duke is research-focused. Tailor your application to align with the school’s mission. - Highlight Community Service:
Many NC schools value applicants with strong volunteer and community service backgrounds.
Is North Carolina Right for You?
North Carolina offers a unique blend of primary care training and cutting-edge research opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to serving underserved communities or pursuing specialized fields, the Tar Heel State has something for everyone.
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Strong sense of community and student wellness resources
- Beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities
- Excellent food scene, including BBQ and international cuisine
Cons:
- Extreme weather, including hurricanes
- Limited public transportation in rural areas
- Hot, humid summers
Final Thoughts
North Carolina’s medical schools provide a supportive environment for students passionate about making a difference in healthcare. Whether you’re an in-state resident or an out-of-state applicant, the state’s mix of community-focused programs and research opportunities makes it an excellent choice for your medical education.
For more guidance on crafting a standout application, explore Med School Insiders’ resources and services tailored to help you succeed.
Thank you to Pamela Guo, MD, from Wake Forest University, for contributing to this guide.