Top Medical Schools in Washington, DC
Explore the Capital’s Best Institutions for Aspiring Physicians
Why Study Medicine in Washington, DC?
Studying medicine in Washington, DC offers more than just access to academic excellence. The capital city is home to world-class hospitals, cutting-edge research centers, and key healthcare policy institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Medical students here gain firsthand experience at the crossroads of clinical practice, research, and policy.
Whether your goal is to become a general practitioner, surgeon, specialist, or medical researcher, DC provides an ideal environment with outstanding educational institutions, diverse patient populations, and strong mentorship networks. Below, we highlight the top medical schools in DC, complete with program summaries, website links, and scholarship or financial aid information to help support your journey.
Top Medical Schools in Washington, DC
Georgetown University School of Medicine
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Georgetown’s School of Medicine, founded in 1851, is one of the most prestigious medical schools in the country. Rooted in Jesuit values, it emphasizes cura personalis—or care for the whole person—across all aspects of training.
Highlights:
- Offers MD, MD/PhD, and dual-degree programs such as MD/MBA and MD/MPH
- Clinical training through MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and affiliated institutions
- Innovative curriculum integrating basic sciences with early clinical exposure
- Research strengths in cancer, neuroscience, and global health
- Strong support for student wellness and mentorship
Howard University College of Medicine
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Howard University’s College of Medicine is one of the oldest historically Black medical schools in the U.S., committed to training physicians who serve underserved communities and champion health equity.
Highlights:
- Offers MD, MD/PhD, and dual-degree programs
- Strong legacy in producing minority physicians and leaders in medicine
- Affiliations with Howard University Hospital and other regional medical centers
- Emphasis on primary care, community service, and public health
- Active pipeline and mentorship programs for underrepresented students in medicine
George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
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George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences offers rigorous academic programs, global health initiatives, and unmatched proximity to federal health agencies and top-tier hospitals.
Highlights:
- MD, MD/MPH, MD/PhD, and MD/MBA dual-degree options
- Home to the GW Medical Faculty Associates and GW Hospital
- Clinical experiences begin early and span a wide range of specialties
- Research emphasis on public health, emergency medicine, and health policy
- Strong focus on advocacy and leadership in healthcare
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS)
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Although located just outside DC in Bethesda, Maryland, USUHS serves students from the District and provides a unique military-focused medical education for future physicians in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Highlights:
- Tuition-free MD program with service commitment in military medicine
- Interdisciplinary training for military readiness and disaster response
- Access to top military medical research and simulation centers
- Focus on leadership, global health, and trauma medicine
- Commissioned officer status with pay and benefits during education
American University (Pre-Med & Health Professions Advising)
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While American University does not offer an MD program, it provides strong pre-medical advising and preparation for students planning to attend medical school. AU’s interdisciplinary approach and access to DC’s research institutions make it a strong foundation for aspiring doctors.
Highlights:
- Pre-medical advising, clinical internships, and MCAT prep support
- Hands-on research opportunities with NIH, FDA, and local hospitals
- Partnerships for medical school admissions and post-baccalaureate programs
- Encouragement of majors in both sciences and humanities
- Ideal for students seeking a well-rounded undergraduate education before medical school
Additional Medical Education Opportunities in DC
While DC has a limited number of full medical schools offering MD degrees, it is home to countless institutions that contribute to medical education and research. Students at DC-based schools benefit from internships, research assistantships, and volunteer opportunities at premier organizations like:
- Children’s National Hospital
- MedStar Health System
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center
- The George Washington University Hospital
Pursue Your Medical Career in the Heart of Healthcare Innovation
Washington, DC is more than the nation’s capital—it’s a thriving hub for medical education, public health policy, and clinical research. Whether you are looking to serve diverse communities, influence national health decisions, or conduct pioneering research, the city offers the ideal environment for your aspirations.
The schools featured above provide students with excellent academic foundations, professional development resources, and impactful clinical experiences. They prepare future physicians to lead with compassion, cultural competence, and a deep commitment to improving healthcare systems both locally and globally.
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Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities. Connect with a local recruiting / headhunting firm today to explore opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.
Connect with the top Washington DC recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.