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MD/PhD Dual Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions

MD/PHD ADMISSIONS PROCESS

For 2024-2025 admission cycle, the MD/PhD program will only accept applications from Drexel's matriculated MD class into the MD/PhD program. No external application for direct entry into the MD/PhD program will be accepted. MD applicants interested in this internal program should select the MD/PhD option on the secondary application.

Do you offer a Direct pathway to MD/PhD program?

For 2024-2025 admission cycle, we will not offer a direct pathway for the MD/PhD program. We will only accept internal transfer applications from Drexel's MD students in their 2nd or 3rd year.

Do you accept Drexel MD transfers?

For the 2024-2025 admission cycle, the MD/PhD program will review transfer applications from 2nd or 3rd Drexel's MD class.

How do laboratory rotations work?

MD/PhD students complete two to three six-week full-time rotations before they select their lab. Typically, the rotation is scheduled for the summer between the first and second year or after the completion of the third year of medical school before the beginning of the PhD phase of the training.

How to identify faculty mentors?

You can view the Research and Concentration Areas and Training Mentors page. Ideally, during your summer research internship, you can meet with and identify a faculty mentor. It is most helpful to select mentors in the field of study you are interested in.

MD/PHD PROGRAM STRUCTURE

What is the average time to completion of the MD/PhD program at Drexel University College of Medicine?

On average, our MD/PhD students take seven to eight years to complete the program. Students must complete, submit, and defend their PhD thesis before returning to their last year of medical school. The MD and PhD degrees are awarded simultaneously upon completing all requirements.

What is the current stipend and benefits that current MD/PhD students receive?

Students in the MD/PhD program receive a full tuition waiver, a competitive stipend ($35,000 per year) and a medical insurance allowance throughout the course of study. Transferred students from MD to MD/PhD program will receive funding starting July 1 of the transfer year. The funding includes a full tuition waiver for the remaining years, a competitive stipend ($35,000 per year), and a medical insurance allowance throughout the course of study. No reimbursement will be provided for prior MD years.

Are there teaching requirements?

Our program does not require the MD/PhD students to serve as teaching assistants, although there may be teaching opportunities.

Do MD/PhD students have special responsibilities at the College of Medicine?

Our students play a vital role in the recruitment and assessment of all MD/PhD applicants. The College of Medicine has a history of student involvement in all levels of our MD/PhD program. Our students meet routinely with the program director and advisory committee to help guide our program. Our MD/PhD students are a group of extremely talented, motivated and driven scholars. We expect our students to add value to our research enterprise by contributing to grants and papers, to increase interest and ability to do translational research among graduate students, medical students and academic interaction with Drexel's engineering community. In addition, our MD/PhD students are a driving force behind events such as Medical Student Research Day.

 
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Drexel MD PhD Students