Degree Types: MD/PhD

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) prepares students for exciting and rewarding careers that combine biomedical investigation and the practice of medicine.

This flexible program permits the efficient and natural combination of medical and scientific training for highly motivated students of superior research potential.

MSTP students typically complete two years of the medical curriculum followed by three or more years of research training. During this time, students complete a dissertation to fulfill the requirements for the PhD degree. Students then return to the medical curriculum to complete one and one-half years of hospital-based clinical clerkships.

Additional resources:

• Department website
• Program handbook(s)

Degrees Offered

The Medical Scientist Training Program has identified a number of short- and long-term learning objectives for students who complete its dual-degree MD/PhD training:

Short-Term Objectives:

• Develop physician-scientist identify that integrates medical and research training
• Develop expertise in a specific area of biomedical research
• Demonstrate research independence and mastery of the Responsible Conduct of Research principles
• Master the basic science foundation of clinical medicine
• Master core knowledge and practice of clinical medicine
• Understand the diverse career paths available to physician-scientists
• Develop skills for effective leadership, communication, mentoring, and teamwork

Long-Term Objectives:

• Conduct rigorous, reproducible, and collaborative biomedical research
• Secure employment in the biomedical research workforce in a field of their choosing
• Value and promote inclusivity and diversity of backgrounds within biomedical research environments 
• Assume leadership roles in their field of choice

Medical Scientist Training Program Courses