Taking an MD-PhD Degree in Med School – Is This Highly Advised?

Taking MD-PhD degrees in med school may be a good option for graduate students who have plans of pursuing higher degrees to further their future careers. But while these may sound like a good investment for a more rewarding career in medicine, there are also some downsides medical students have to consider before pushing through with their plans.

When getting an MD degree, completing their studies and other requirements such as internship and residency will take a long time. It takes a long while before they can finally establish themselves as practicing doctors. Choosing to take the MD-PhD path will only lengthen their graduate school study time to seven to eight years, which means more hours invested in classes, requirements, and of course, tuition.

Internal MD students are usually considered for most MD-PhD programs. Those accepted for PhD programs are expected to go through research-based training.

AMCAS schools

Schools under the American College Application Service (AMCAS) may have a dual program that has the MD application along with the MD-PhD application. Schools will ask their applicants if they want to solely pursue an MD should the MD-PhD application fail to push through. Some institutes allow for dual-degree pursuits after being accepted in a single MD program, but most process applications for dual-degree programs from the beginning. Since such is the case, students considering MD-PhD programs in medical school should be sure about their decision and weigh the consequence of the time they will spend and the student loans to be paid.

Requirements for application

Pursuing an MD-PhD degree will be rigorous and challenging, so accepted applicants should back their desire with an excellent academic record. In 2008, the median GPA for accepted double-degree medical students was 3.7, but this varies according to the university’s policies and standards. Another equally important factor is your MCAT score, while other schools require high GRE scores. The required completed courses for every medical school are: biology, physics, chemistry (two years), and English. Another important requirement is having volunteer related work in clinical institutions. Enough hours at your local hospital and other balanced extra-curricular activities will boost your chances of getting in. Remember, the admissions board wants passionate, well-rounded individuals who will do what’s more than necessary to pursue their goals.

Photo Credits: jeanbaptisteparis

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