MD/PhD Program
About the Program
The MD/PhD program is designed to provide comprehensive training in both
clinical sciences and a basic biomedical science discipline. The intent of
the program is to provide students with an integrated and cohesive training
experience while obtaining the MD/PhD degree. Students participate in
activities common to both programs while involved in the medical school
curriculum or engaged in PhD dissertation research.
The program consists of 2 years of the medical school curriculum followed by 3-4 years of graduate courses and PhD dissertation research, and concludes with the remaining 2 years of the medical school curriculum.
The program is designed to be completed in 7-8 years. The PhD and MD degrees are awarded simultaneously at the end of the entire training period. Students will take two one-month long rotations in research laboratories during the initial 20 months of the program. These experiences are meant to broaden the research experience of the students as they decide in what research area they wish to specialize. Students can pursue many lines of research activity performed by investigators in biomedical research in the School of Medicine.
Admissions Process
The MD/PhD Admissions Committee consists of faculty members from the graduate school and medical school. Based on the American Medical College Admissions Service (AMCAS) application, supplemental application, statement of purpose and letters of recommendation, the Admissions Committee selects applicants to interview. Interviews are conducted over a two day period early in the spring semester. Three to four personal interviews are conducted by members of the MD/PhD admissions committee. Students will be required to give a research presentation as part of the interview process.
Successful applicants will have highly competitive academic records and scores on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and be able to document substantial interest in research. One MD/PhD fellowship will be awarded in 2009. Currently, students in the program are fully funded, meaning that they receive a merit-based scholarship consisting of tuition and fee expenses, a stipend and health insurance. Students in the program are expected to excel academically and play leadership roles in the School of Medicine. Take a look at the MD/PhD Handbook for more information.
