ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · UNITED STATES
MD-PhD Program
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
96 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- NIH-funded MSTP since 1977NIH Funding
- Personalized training areasSpecialization Choice
- Integrated clinical experience from day oneEarly Clinical Exposure
- Eight multidisciplinary training areas for thesis researchResearch Breadth
- Supportive advising approachStudent Support
The MD-PhD Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is designed to train physician-scientists who will lead the future of medicine. This National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) offers a highly personalized curriculum, allowing students to choose their own multidisciplinary training area and thesis research preceptor. The program integrates clinical experiences from the start, alongside rigorous scientific training. Students begin their training the summer before medical school with a laboratory rotation and a specialized course, 'Biomedical Science for MD-PhDs.' During the graduate school years, students conduct thesis research within one of eight available multidisciplinary training areas. Upon defending their thesis, they return to the medical school for the final two years of clinical rotations to complete both degrees. The program emphasizes advising as a crucial component for student success, offering resources and services to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.
Curriculum
The MD-PhD curriculum is structured to provide a seamless transition between medical and graduate training. It begins with a summer laboratory rotation before the first year of medical school, followed by a foundational course. Clinical experiences are woven throughout the program from the outset. Students then transition to graduate studies for their thesis research and return to clinical rotations to complete their MD.
- Pre-clinical & PhD
- Biomedical Science for MD-PhDs
- Laboratory Rotation(s)
- Thesis Research
- Clinical Rotations
- Core Clinical Clerkships
- Elective Rotations
Careers
Graduates of the MD-PhD program are prepared for diverse and impactful careers at the intersection of medicine and research. They are equipped to lead research labs, teach at academic institutions, and pursue clinical practice while advancing scientific discovery.
- Academic Physician-Scientist
- Medical Researcher
- Clinical Investigator
- Professor of Medicine
- Principal Investigator
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MD-PhD Program?
- Applicants should have a strong undergraduate record, competitive standardized test scores (MCAT), and significant research experience, demonstrating a commitment to becoming a physician-scientist.
- What is the tuition for the MD-PhD Program?
- The MD-PhD program is fully funded through NIH funding and institutional support. Tuition, fees, and health insurance are covered, and students receive a stipend for living expenses.
- How do I apply to the MD-PhD Program?
- The application process involves visiting the graduate admissions website, completing the application form, submitting transcripts, MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and participating in interviews if selected.
- What is the application deadline for the MD-PhD Program?
- Applications typically open in August/September and close around November/December for matriculation the following year. Interviews usually occur in winter, with admission decisions in March/April.
- What career paths are available for MD-PhD graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as academic physician-scientists, medical researchers, clinical investigators, professors of medicine, and principal investigators, combining clinical practice with scientific discovery.
Entry requirements
MD-PhD ProgramCandidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to a career as a physician-scientist, including significant research experience. Specific academic prerequisites include a strong undergraduate record and competitive scores on standardized tests (e.g., MCAT, although specific requirements are detailed in the admissions section).
The program seeks scientifically-inspired and patient-focused students. A comprehensive approach to application review is used, considering eligibility, training area interests, interview performance, and attributes of successful applicants.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees are covered for MD-PhD students through NIH funding and institutional support. Students receive a stipend and support for tuition, fees, and health insurance.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees are covered for MD-PhD students through NIH funding and institutional support. Students receive a stipend and support for tuition, fees, and health insurance.
LivingDetails on specific living costs are not provided, but students receive a stipend to help cover living expenses.
As a funded program, tuition and living expenses are typically covered. Details on financial aid and tuition are available through the Financial Aid office.
How to apply
1. Visit the Admissions PageGo to the Icahn School of Medicine graduate admissions website for comprehensive information on the application process, eligibility, and requirements.
2. Complete the ApplicationSubmit the required application forms, ensuring all sections are completed accurately and thoroughly. This typically includes personal information, academic history, research experience, and essays.
3. Submit Transcripts and ScoresProvide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended, as well as standardized test scores (e.g., MCAT, GRE if applicable, though MCAT is standard for MD-PhD).
4. Obtain Letters of RecommendationSecure strong letters of recommendation from faculty members, research mentors, and others who can attest to your academic abilities, research potential, and personal qualities.
5. Participate in InterviewsSelected candidates will be invited for interviews, which are a crucial part of the evaluation process. These interviews assess your fit for the program and your potential as a physician-scientist.
6. Await Admission DecisionAfter the review process and interviews, admission decisions will be communicated.
Scholarships
National Institutes of Health (NIH) T32 Training GrantFull funding
Accreditation
The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MD-PhD Program?
+
Applicants should have a strong undergraduate record, competitive standardized test scores (MCAT), and significant research experience, demonstrating a commitment to becoming a physician-scientist.
What is the tuition for the MD-PhD Program?
+
The MD-PhD program is fully funded through NIH funding and institutional support. Tuition, fees, and health insurance are covered, and students receive a stipend for living expenses.
How do I apply to the MD-PhD Program?
+
The application process involves visiting the graduate admissions website, completing the application form, submitting transcripts, MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and participating in interviews if selected.
What is the application deadline for the MD-PhD Program?
+
Applications typically open in August/September and close around November/December for matriculation the following year. Interviews usually occur in winter, with admission decisions in March/April.
What career paths are available for MD-PhD graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as academic physician-scientists, medical researchers, clinical investigators, professors of medicine, and principal investigators, combining clinical practice with scientific discovery.