MD/PhD programs

[SM212]

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I'm considering applying to multiple MD/PhD programs and I have a few questions.

First, do all schools automatically default you to the MD applicant pool if you are not accepted into the MD/PhD program.

Second, I am going to be applying to some big name schools for this joint program (i.e. Harvard, Hopkins etc). Is there a downside to applying to their dual programs (what I'm trying to say is, if I dont get into the joint program does it hurt my chances at all for acceptance into their regular MD program?)

Also, do you need to have multiple publications to be accepted to these programs or just a lot of research experience and a great desire to do both clinical and research?

Thanks for your help!

 

[Catalystik]

See the response to questions #3 and #9 for your answers in this excellent post by Neuronix in the Physician Scientist Forum: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=539268

 

[Lil Mick]

First, do all schools automatically default you to the MD applicant pool if you are not accepted into the MD/PhD program.
It varies by school. Hopkins generally doesn't unless they want to accept you but don't have enough scholarships to go around that year. Others will default you into the MD pile after rejecting you.

Second, I am going to be applying to some big name schools for this joint program (i.e. Harvard, Hopkins etc). Is there a downside to applying to their dual programs (what I'm trying to say is, if I dont get into the joint program does it hurt my chances at all for acceptance into their regular MD program?)
It's hard to get into those programs (some get 500 applications), and some of those schools don't default you. Everyone applying generally has the stats to get into their MD program, but most MSTP applicants won't even get an interview.

Also, do you need to have multiple publications to be accepted to these programs or just a lot of research experience and a great desire to do both clinical and research?
No, but you do need extensive research, some of which is led by you, rather than your PI. Publications do help, but it's hit-and-miss with a lot of journals.

For more, refer to the MD/PhD Forum postings.

 

[StoicJosher]

First, do all schools automatically default you to the MD applicant pool if you are not accepted into the MD/PhD program.
It varies by school. Hopkins generally doesn't unless they want to accept you but don't have enough scholarships to go around that year. Others will default you into the MD pile after rejecting you.

Second, I am going to be applying to some big name schools for this joint program (i.e. Harvard, Hopkins etc). Is there a downside to applying to their dual programs (what I'm trying to say is, if I dont get into the joint program does it hurt my chances at all for acceptance into their regular MD program?)
It's hard to get into those programs (some get 500 applications), and some of those schools don't default you. Everyone applying generally has the stats to get into their MD program, but most MSTP applicants won't even get an interview.

Also, do you need to have multiple publications to be accepted to these programs or just a lot of research experience and a great desire to do both clinical and research?
No, but you do need extensive research, some of which is led by you, rather than your PI. Publications do help, but it's hit-and-miss with a lot of journals.

For more, refer to the MD/PhD Forum postings.

👍

I would also like to add a couple more things.

1. Some schools don't default you to their MD program unless you specifically ask them to. For a few others, you need to apply to both their MD and MSTP program. You will have to look at different school policies separately.

2. Many programs don't reject you until the end of the cycle and even if you default into the MD program then, your chances of getting an interview are affected.