MD/PhD or Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is a combined degree program designed for individuals interested in pursuing both medical and scientific research careers. The program typically takes 7-8 years to complete and involves rigorous training in both clinical medicine and research methodology.
The program is structured to allow students to complete their medical degree and PhD concurrently. The first two years of the program are typically spent in medical school, where students complete the core medical curriculum and gain clinical experience. During this time, students also have the opportunity to participate in research projects.
The next phase of the program involves the completion of the PhD, which typically takes 3-5 years. During this time, students focus on their research projects and take advanced coursework in their chosen field of study. The final phase of the program involves the completion of clinical rotations and graduation from medical school.
MD/PhD graduates are well-suited to pursue careers as physician-scientists, who are able to integrate clinical medicine with scientific research. They can work in a variety of settings, including academic medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies.
The Medical Scientist Training Program is highly competitive, and admission is based on a combination of academic achievement, research experience, and personal qualities. Students who are interested in this program should have a strong academic record in both science and medicine, as well as a passion for research and the ability to work independently.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD in Medical Scientist Training |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Scientist Training |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Notified Soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
The entrance exam requirements may vary from one program to another, but most programs require applicants to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Admission to MD/PhD programs is highly competitive. Applicants must have a strong academic record, relevant research experience, and a genuine passion for pursuing a career as a physician-scientist.
They must also demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
The admission process involves a review of academic transcripts, standardized test scores, research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and meet the admission requirements of both the medical and graduate schools.
The program typically takes 7-8 years to complete, including 2 years of medical school and 3-5 years of graduate school.
The exact duration may vary depending on the program and the research project.
The selection criteria for MD/PhD programs typically include academic performance, research experience, personal qualities such as leadership and teamwork, and the potential to contribute to the field of medical research.
Admission committees also consider factors such as the fit between the applicant's research interests and the research strengths of the program, and the potential for the applicant to benefit from the program.
To apply for an MD/PhD program, applicants must complete the application process for both the medical and graduate schools. |
The application process typically includes submitting academic transcripts, standardized test scores (MCAT and GRE), letters of recommendation, personal statements, and research experience. |
Applicants should also be prepared to attend interviews with the admission committees. |
It is recommended that applicants begin the application process at least one year in advance of the intended start date. |
The application deadlines may vary by program, so it is important to check the deadlines for each program carefully. |
The application form for MD/PhD programs can be found on the websites of the medical and graduate schools offering the program.
Applicants must complete both the medical and graduate school applications, and pay any associated fees.
The application process for MD/PhD programs typically involves the following steps:
Research programs: Applicants should research MD/PhD programs to find the programs that align with their research interests.
Meet eligibility requirements: Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for both the medical and graduate schools.
Complete application form: Applicants must complete the application form for both the medical and graduate schools.
Submit required documents: Applicants must submit academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and research experience.
Attend interviews: Applicants who meet the initial screening criteria are typically invited for interviews with the admission committees.
The application fee for MD/PhD programs may vary by program, but it typically ranges from Notified Soon per program. |
MD/PhD graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in research and clinical medicine.
They can pursue careers as physician-scientists, academic researchers, pharmaceutical researchers, and policymakers.
In India, some of the top colleges offering MD/PhD programs include:
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Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for PhD Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.