What do you guys think about the advantages/disadvantages of pursuing an MD/MPH dual degree vs. a PA/MPH dual degree. The PA/MPH dual degrees are definitely few and far between (I can only think of a handful, GWU, Emory, Yale, maybe a couple others). For someone interested in both clinical medicine/research and public health research/policy/administration, these two options are very appealing. Obviously the MD will open more doors than the PA, but I guess my question is how much more? Is the extra years of schooling/residency and debt worth the increased accreditation if one's career goals include patient care initially, but later on a more non-clinical public health role? Thoughts?
MD/MPH vs. PA/MPH
- Thread starter bonnski
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The biggest difference will be the capacity in which you conduct research. The MD is a doctoral degree whereas the PA is a master's degree. With a doctoral degree you can become a PI--you cannot with just a master's degree. This would be for clinical/basic research.
Also, if you only wish to do research, many MD/PhD (I know it's not the same as what you want, but it goes the same direction) students do not do a residency because they have no intent of ever practicing medicine and stick to research. This could also be an option.
For the other side of things, policy/economic research. A PhD is a better option than either a MD/MPH or PA/MPH as you'd get more focused training into those methods because the clinical training does not directly translate into policy or economic work. Again, you'll be limited in capacity by the amount of training depending upon the level of degree.
Also, if you only wish to do research, many MD/PhD (I know it's not the same as what you want, but it goes the same direction) students do not do a residency because they have no intent of ever practicing medicine and stick to research. This could also be an option.
For the other side of things, policy/economic research. A PhD is a better option than either a MD/MPH or PA/MPH as you'd get more focused training into those methods because the clinical training does not directly translate into policy or economic work. Again, you'll be limited in capacity by the amount of training depending upon the level of degree.
