The first 18 months of training mirrors the syllabus of the medical student. Students are also required to attend a research seminar program to augment their education and reinforce their basic scientific knowledge. During the summer between the first and second year, students are required to obtain research experience in two to three laboratories in order to acquaint themselves with different programs and departments related to their research interests. This is an important and indispensable exercise for MD-PhD students; however, our goal is for the student to make a commitment to a Department or a thesis adviser at the beginning of the second year.
After the completion of Phase 1, students will focus on the PhD department of their choice. Students must qualify in the PhD department of their choice and undergo an admission procedure as that of any other student applying to that program.
Phase 2 and 3 of the MD-PhD is designed to provide students with the required medical rotations to broaden and strengthen their basic knowledge and skills in clinical medicine. During this period of time, students are also required to attend the MD-PhD seminars. All elective courses must be approved by the OME.
MD-PhD students are expected to remain in good standing both as graduate students and medical students. Performance in the first two years will be evaluated based on graduate school standards. Students are required to maintain a grade of High Satisfactory or better in all medical school courses.
Summer Prior To Year 1
Fall Semester (M1)
Spring Semester (M1)
Fall Semester (M2)
Spring Semester (M2)
Summer Semester
Fall and Spring Semester
*Sixth year if necessary
Fall & Spring (M3)
Fall & Spring (M4)
*If taken as elective during third year, additional elective must be taken.
**Electives will be individualized to meet student’s schedule & interests; approval by MD-PhD Steering Committee and OME required.