The MD/PhD is a dual doctoral degree for physician scientists that combines the vocational training of a Doctor of Medicine with the research rigor of a Doctor of Philosophy
The MD/PhD programs are highly competitive, often taking 7-8 years to complete
Years 1-2: First two years of Med School
Years 3-6: Mostly Grad School/PhD Work
Years 7-8: Last two years of Med School
Who are Biomedical Research Scientists?
Upon earning their dual degree, MD/PhD candidates become biomedical research scientists
Biomedical research scientists are interested in researching the mechanisms that underlie disease in order to engineer patient-driven medical solutions
Example: A neurologist who studies brain plasticity in order to develop better treatment plans for epileptic patients
Biomedical research scientists are patient, creative, interested in biology, and persistent enough to see rigorous research projects through to conclusion
What are career outcomes like for Physician scientists?
The vast majority (~75%) become faculty at medical schools
At medical schools, physician scientists can continue to work on their research while practicing primary care
About 16% of physician scientists work in private medical practices
Physician scientists also work at research institutes, such as HHMI and NIH
Owing to their extensive education and technical skills, careers in physician science are well paid
How Much would an MD/PhD cost?
Since MD/PhD physician scientists are so valuable, many training programs receive extensive financial support
Since NIH supports MD/PhD students with grants and stipends, most students enroll tuition free
For more information on financial support for MD-PhD training, visit the American Association of Medical College’s web page on potential funding sources for MD/PhD students:
How competitive are MD/PhD programs?
Traditionally, MD/PhD programs receive fewer applicants than do medical schools, but they are usually more competitive
Matriculating student statistics
Mean GPA: 3.8
Mean MCAT: 515
The standards for admission will vary from school to school, so it is important to check with each offering program
Note: It is not always necessary to have at least a 3.8 GPA in order to be admitted. It is still possible to be a competitive MD/PhD applicant with a lower GPA if you have outstanding research and clinical experience.
What can I do to ensure that I’ll be a competitive MD/PhD applicant?
Demonstrate academic success in biology, physics, chemistry, and social science courses
For more information about which courses you should take as an undergrad in order to meet MD/PhD admission requirements, visit the Reed Yorke Health Professions Advising Office’s web page on pre-medicine coursework.
Score competitively on the MCAT (~515+)
Costs about $315
More information about the American Association of Medical College’s Fee Assistance Program.
Demonstrate interest in medical practice
Look for scribing positions and shadowing opportunities
Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community service
Demonstrate a passionate commitment for research
Multiple summer projects
Consider a senior thesis project
In some cases, one or more years of research experience after undergraduate studies may be appropriate
Owing to the rigorous prerequisite expectations for applying to an MD/PhD programs, it is common for applicants to take one or more gap years after completing an undergraduate degree
How can I apply?
General Timeline
Applications open in the summer
Interviews begin in the fall/winter
Acceptances released in the winter
Matriculation in the summer
Components
Transcript/Coursework
MCAT score
Personal statement that explains your career goals/interests and how they are related to the intersection of medicine and research
For more information on constructing an effective and convincing personal statement, read this article written by the Director of Health Professions Advising at Princeton University.
Letters of recommendation, especially from research mentors
For more information about selecting appropriate recommenders, visit the University of Maryland’s Health Profession Advising Office’s web page on letters of recommendation.
Interview Tips
Demonstrate your personality, creativity, and motivation for applying to an MD/PhD program
Demonstrate strong verbal communication skills
Be able to describe all items from your application, especially your research