MD/PhD programs (also known as an MSTP) are found at medical schools across the country.
But, if you’re like me, you’ve never heard about them as a training option until now. What is their purpose, how do they work, and who decides to pursue this course of study? The information in this blog post can potentially help you decide if pursing a dual degree program is right for you.
What is an MD-PhD program and What does it do?
MD/PhD programs are designed to provide students with sound clinical training and produce highly trained physicians. But, they also provide extensive scientific training, equipping students with the skills to generate hypotheses and rigorously test those hypotheses. Students who complete their extensive training emerge as “physician-scientists”, placed in a unique position to make significant advances in the laboratory and translate these discoveries to real changes in patient care. Most of these physician-scientists take up positions at major research institutions as faculty members, running laboratories and seeing patients occasionally. Historically, the only path to achieving the status of “physician-scientist” was to attend medical school (and accrue all the associated debt) and carry out post graduate research training. Unfortunately, because of the high financial burden associated with medical school attendance, many physicians went on to pursue careers in clinical medicine (which proved to be more lucrative). Recognizing that practical considerations were a barrier for many young talented students, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) persuaded congress of the importance of having a program which would offset the cost of medical school attendance, and make a career in research (which may not be as lucrative as some medical specialties) feasible, practically speaking. What we have today are 44 fully funded MSTP programs across the country. In addition, there are 75 non MSTP MD/PhD programs which obtain their funding sources.
How do MD/PhD programs work?
The exact details of the structure of the program may vary, but in general the sequence is:
- 2 years of preclinical work
- 3 -4 years of graduate coursework and research culminating in the production of a thesis
- Approximately 1.5 years of clinical clerkships (with direct patient contact)
Some may think that these programs fast track students through the process of medical/graduate research training. But make no mistake, completing this course of training requires a significant amount of effort and energy, akin to your medical/graduate counterparts, and in the face of criticism from some of them. The timeline for this course of training is 7-8 years (a marathon not a sprint). As a 20-21 year old, you’ll be called upon to make a decision about the next 7-8 years of life. Not only is this a significant time commitment, but those are extremely formidable years. Its important to be sure that this is the right choice and its clear that not all who begin down this road are sure, as 1 in 4 MD/PhDs fail to complete their training. The seriousness of this decision is also underscored by the fact that approximately 30% of individuals who enter these programs have spent at least a year outside of school, conducting full time research. Speaking from personal experience, this full time research endeavor was crucial in solidifying my resolve to pursue a career in research.
So how do I know if this graduate program is the right thing for me?
In order to know if this is the right career path, its important to take a look at your interests and goals, and determine if they are in accordance with the types of students who are enrolling in these programs.
- Do you have a commitment to a research centric career?
Remember, the goal of these programs is to produce “physician-scientists” who will carry out basic research and translate those advances into the clinic. In my conversations with fellow MD-PhDs, one theme is common: A strong desire to contribute to medicine through a better understanding of disease processes in the hopes of identifying new cure. Have you thought about spending every day in lab doing experiments? Have you had any experience doing research? Before embarking on this career path, it would be prudent to carry out research, either in school, after graduating, or as a part of any number of wonderful summer programs out there. MD/PhDs often talk about a magic “80:20” ratio referring to their time spent conducting research (80%) and doing clinical work (20%). Maybe you love lab work, but not that much, then that may be a good indication that this may not be the best fit for you. Remember, 30% of MD/PhDs have spent time out of school doing research full time, so they understand what it means to devote your life and career to this endeavor.
2. Does the extended time commitment fit with your life and goals?
At the beginning, embarking on this new endeavor is exciting and fun. However, when you speak to those further along in their training, they’re not so bright eyed and bushy tailed. Oftentimes, its so hard to see the end, especially as you medical school counterparts move on and you seem to be stuck. You’ll finish the program in your late 20’s and early 30’s. But training is not complete once you finish. There are residencies that need to be completed (ranging from 3-6 years depending on the specialty you choose, whether pediatrics or surgery) and fellowships if you decide to sub-specialize.
Monetary considerations may also be a factor. While the program does provide living stipends, this salary really only covers your own minimum living costs. With a family or some other dependent, this program may not fit your life and goals.
So, that’s the rundown on MD/PhD programs.
Every year, approx. 1800 students compete for 170 positions and each year the competition gets stiffer. I can tell you from experience, that at my own program, the students applying are of the highest caliber, and approximately 1/3 of individuals applying do not receive a spot.
So, how do you make yourself an attractive candidate to the MD/PhD admissions committee?
Keep up with the blog, and we’ll have more information on making your application the best possible. But, first and foremost is having a strong MCAT score (Medical College Admissions Test), and this is where MCAT test prep programs can help. In addition, MD/PhD application consultants can help you build a strong portfolio, and help secure that coveted spot.
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