What's the difference between MD/PhD programs and MST Programs?

Though many MST Programs refer to themselves as MD/PhD programs, only programs receiving funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) can call themselves MST Programs or Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTP).

How long are MD/PhD programs?

The length of training is dependent upon the amount of time it takes to complete the PhD portion. The average amount of time ranges between 7 and 9 years.

What type of funding can I expect?

Many programs provide a stipend, tuition remission, and health benefits. However, contact programs individually to determine the specific funding they offer.

How do I tell if a program is an MSTP?

The National Institutes of Health has a listing of every program they fund. MST Programs

What is the curriculum like?

Curriculums vary by institution. In general, program participants complete all of the requirements for the MD program and for the given PhD program. Commonly, students complete the first 2 years of the MD curriculum and then finish their PhD requirements before returning to the wards for their last 2 years of the MD curriculum. However, some MD/PhD programs have slightly modified requirements for their students when compared with those of MD-only or PhD-only students.

Can International students receive MSTP funding?

No, international students are not eligible to receive NIH funds. However, many institutions offer non-governmental funding for international students when accepted to an MD/PhD program.

What is a residency?

A residency is a form of training all MD degree recipients must complete in order to obtain licensure in a speciality. Historically, residencies include a primary year of internal medicine training referred to as an internship.

Do all MD/PhDs complete a residency?

No, some MD/PhDs choose to forego their residency training in order to immediately begin a postdoctoral fellowship. However, the majority of MD/PhDs do complete a residency.

Are GRE scores required?

Submission of GRE scores varies by institution.

Do MD/PhDs usually practice medicine and conduct research?

Many graduates of MD/PhD programs choose to combine their experience within the two disciplines. However, some graduates opt to only conduct research or practice medicine.