Thread: MD after Ph.D.
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Old 04-21-2012, 03:16 AM   #2
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Originally Posted by Prettypuff1 View Post
Hello
So I have a long way to go before i apply but I wanted to get some opinions. I am going to be starting a Ph.D. in the fall in the sciences,particularly pharmacology. I am an older student 28 and I am interested in applying to Medical School after I finish my Ph.D. I am interested in becoming a physician scientist and focusing my interests in oncology.I would prefer to have both degrees to fully see patients while participating in clinical trials. While i have read that my Ph.D. wont give me a leg up, I am interested to know the application process as far as pre-reqs/ Undergraduate GPA since this is the most important part. Since my pre/reqs sciences are past the 5 year deadline, would they consider just the classes i had to retake because they were out dated or my science career as a whole? Thankfullly the phd allow me to be published and i am able to participate in clinical trials. I am open to applying to DO schools as well. But just would like opinions.

I am pretty ok with the lack of life. By the time i am looking to apply and matriculate, my son will be grown and i'll be on my own...
Thanks
You have no idea how long and hard this road is, and being dirt poor into your 40's isn't as glamorous as it sounds. You don't need a PhD to do research, especially clinical trials. If you're just dying to get one then matriculate MD and transfer into a combined program during M2. It will shorten the process and make remainder of med school free.

Otherwise just get an MD and do a research residency or postdoc. This will get you to the same place quicker, cheaper, and with a tiny fraction of the stress and heartbreak.

Last edited by Gut Shot; 04-21-2012 at 02:02 PM.
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