phd or md which is better

• PhD vs MD – Differences explained
• Types of Doctorates

A MD is a Doctor of Medicine, whilst a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. A MD program focuses on the application of medicine to diagnose and treat patients. A PhD program research focuses on research (in any field) to expand knowledge.

Introduction

This article will outline the key differences between a MD and a PhD. If you are unsure of which degree is suitable for you, then read on to find out the focuses and typical career paths of both. Please note this article has been written for the perspective of a US audience.

What is a MD?

MD (also seen stylized as M.D and M.D.) comes from the Latin term Medicīnae Doctor and denotes a Doctor of Medicine.

MDs practice allopathic medicine (they use modern medicine to treat symptoms and diseases). A common example would be your physician, though there are numerous types of medical doctors, with different areas of speciality and as such may be referred to differently.

What is a PhD?

A PhD (sometimes seen stylized as Ph.D.) comes from the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor and denotes a Doctor of Philosophy.

A PhD can be awarded for carrying out original research in any field, not just medicine. In comparison to an MD, a PhD in a Medicinal field is focused on finding out new knowledge, as opposed to applying current knowledge.

A PhD in Medicine therefore does not require you to attend medical school or complete a residency program. Instead, you are required to produce a thesis (which summarizes your research findings) and defend your work in an oral examination.

What is the difference between a MD and a PhD?

Both are Doctoral Degrees, and someone with either degree can be referred to as a doctor. But for clarity, MDs are awarded to those with expertise in practicing medicine and are therefore more likely to be found in clinical environments. PhDs are awarded to researchers, and are therefore more likely to be found in academic environments.

This does not mean that MDs cannot pursue a research career, nor does it mean that a PhD cannot pursue clinical practice. It does mean, however, that PhDs are more suited to those who would wish to pursue a career in research, and that MDs are more suited to those who prefer the clinical aspects of medicine or aspire to become a practicing physician.

It should also be noted that a medical PhD doctorates possess transferable skills which make them desirable to various employers. Their familiarity with the scientific method and research experience makes them well suited to industry work beyond medical research.

Program structure and time

The standard MD program structure sees students undertake 2 years of coursework and classroom-based learning, before undertaking 2 years of rotational work in a clinical environment (such as a hospital). Getting an MD requires attending a medical school (accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education) and completing a residency program. Both of which prepare students to diagnose patients and practice clinical medicine.

The standard PhD program lasts 5 to 7 years and sees students undertake original research (monitored by a supervisor). Getting a PhD requires the contribution of novel findings, which leads to the advancement of knowledge within your field of research. With the exception of some clinical PhDs, a PhD alone is not enough to be able to prescribe medicine.

PhD doctorates are required to summarize the purpose, methodology, findings and significance of their research in a thesis. The final step is the ‘ Viva Voce ’ where the student must defend their thesis to a panel of examiners.

To summarize, a MD program usually lasts 4 years, whilst a PhD program lasts 5 to 7 years. Before being licensed to practice medicine, however, you must first complete a residency program which can last between 3 to 7 years.

What is a MD/PhD?

A MD/PhD is a dual doctoral degree. The program alternates between clinical focused learning and research focused work. This is ideal for those who are interested in both aspects of medicine. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, an estimated 600 students matriculate into MD-PhD programs each year .

The typical length of a MD/PhD program is 7 to 8 years, almost twice the length of a MD alone. As with a MD, MD/PhDs are still required to attend medical school and must complete a residency program before being able to practice medicine.

In comparison to PhD and MD programs, MD/PhD positions in the United States are scarce and consequently more competitive. The tuition fees for MD/PhD positions are typically much lower than MD and PhD positions are sometimes waived completely.

Those who possess a MD/PhD are commonly referred to as medical scientists. The ability to combine their medical knowledge with research skills enables MD/PhDs to work in a wide range of positions from academia to industrial research.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Browse PhDs Now

Join thousands of students.

Join thousands of other students and stay up to date with the latest PhD programmes, funding opportunities and advice.

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

M.D. vs. PhD. Degrees: What Are the Differences? 

Cait Williams is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cait recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications. During her time at OU, was active in the outdoor recreation community.

Learn about our editorial policies

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Chances are, when you hear PhD and MD, you at least know that there is a difference between them. Since both are the titles of doctors, there’s still a lot of ambiguity as to what those specific differences are. In this article, we will look at how MDs and PhDs differ from one another and which one might be a better fit for you. Let’s jump in!  

Doctor of Medicine (MD)  

We’ll start by taking a separate look at MDs. An MD is a medical doctor. Their primary job is to work with patients in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and a variety of other places where having medical staff is necessary. 

School  

In order to become an MD, students must complete their undergraduate degree and then attend a four year medical school. Medical School is then followed by a residency, where a new doctor completes training under a senior physician. From start to finish, becoming a doctor takes around 8-12 years to finish undergrad, medical school, and residency.  

Area of study  

As a medical doctor, you will generally choose one area of medicine that you would like to focus on. Specialties can be based on a certain part of the body, such as cardiology, podiatry, or neurology. Aspiring medical doctors can also specialize in working with a select group of people, such as geriatrics or pediatrics, or finally, you can specialize in researching things like oncology. The possibilities are plentiful for MDs! 

Where they work  

Where you work will depend on what you choose to specialize in. Again, this could be in a hospital, a smaller clinic, or even across the globe with various organizations that work to provide medical care to underserved populations. Medical expertise is needed in many capacities, meaning that there is never a shortage of places that a medical degree could take you! 

A word about DOs  

Before we move on to PhDs, we have one more thing to clear up that you might have questions about. In addition to MDs, there is also another type of doctor called a DO, or a doctor of osteopathic medicine . DOs perform largely all the same functions as MDs, but with a more holistic approach. They attend undergrad just like MDs and then attend a four year DO program that is structured very similarly to a regular medical school.  

The only difference between these two is where they receive their medical school training and how they approach studying medicine and treating patients. If you are thinking about becoming a medical doctor, you should take some time to explore DOs and what they do!  

Doctorate of philosophy (PhD)  

Okay, now onto PhDs! A doctorate of philosophy, known also as a PhD , doesn’t actually have anything to do with philosophy in most cases. A PhD can be completed in pretty much any field and is the highest level of education that one can receive.  

In order to complete your PhD, you will need to first complete your undergrad, then a master’s program, and finally apply to PhD programs. Not all PhD programs require that you finish your masters. There are some schools that offer programs that allow you to complete both your masters and your doctorate at the same time.  

Generally, schooling for your PhD takes anywhere from four to eight years to complete. The first year or two of your PhD is spent on coursework, while the remaining years are spent doing research and completing your dissertation.  

There are endless areas of study that offer PhD programs. You can study everything from physical therapy, business management and psychology to health administration, engineering, social work, and so much more. The gist is pretty much that if you can think of a field of study, you can earn your PhD in it!  

Based on the examples of fields you can study, it’s safe to say that what you study will determine where you decide to work. PhD holders are highly educated people, meaning that finding a job when you hold a PhD in your field will look pretty good to most employers.  

Common places where you find a high concentration of PhDs are in hospitals, corporate offices, college campuses, and other educational institutions. Remember, though, that’s not a full list of where you could work–the list of places you could work is endless! 

Tuition and Costs  

It’s true, pursuing either one of these degrees is not the cheapest thing, but don’t let numbers scare you off! If anything in this article sounds like it is right for you, explore it thoroughly. There are lots of ways that you can pay for your education, including scholarships, organizations, and programs out there that want to help you do it!

Okay, so for some real talk, the price of either of these degrees can vary a lot. Medical school will generally cost between $45,000 – $65,000 a year, while PhD programs cost on average about $30,000 a year. But, again, this does not mean you have to be able to pay these costs out of pocket. There are a lot of programs for PhDs that work with you to help you pay for some of the costs. There are even some fully funded PhD programs !

Similarly, there are tons of medical scholarships and even tuition free medical schools that you can apply to help offset the costs of a medical degree. There are also options for student loans that you can take out as well. The point is, there are tons of ways to find your education. If a degree like this is right for you, it is possible to achieve with proper planning and determination.

Related: Top scholarships for graduate students

Shadowing  

Before jumping all the way in with either of these degrees, shadowing is a great tool that can help you explore your intended field or job. It’s highly encouraged that students who want to attend medical school shadow at least a few different MDs and DOs prior to applying to medical school.  

But the benefits of shadowing are not just for the medical world. You can ask to shadow just about anyone . Maybe you’d like to shadow a professor who you had during undergrad, a social worker, or someone you know of who works in business. There are no rules about who you can and can’t shadow, you simply have to ask and go from there!  

What is right for you  

Below are some basic questions to help you get your mind started thinking about whether an MD or PhD is right for you. The first set of questions pertains more to MD or DO degrees.  

If you’re thinking about an MD or DO degree…  

Questions to consider.

• Do you like working with people and helping them during difficult times?  
• Do you love studying biological sciences ?  
• Does working in a hospital or clinic sound like an environment you would enjoy? 

If you’re thinking about a PhD…  

• Is there a specific area or field you would like to study? 
• Do you have a specific job in mind that you would like, and does it require a PhD? 

The answers to these questions won’t instantly help you decide, but they should help you think a little deeper about these degrees. 

Key Takeaways

• Both MDs and PhD holders are highly educated in their field of study, holding the highest degrees that you can earn 
• The only way to become a practicing MD is to first obtain your bachelor’s degree, then attended a four year accredited medical school, and then successfully complete all the proper exams to practice medicine 
• To earn a PhD, you do not have to attend medical school, but you will need to attend a PhD program, complete your undergrad, and usually complete your master’s degree before doing so 
• There are lots of ways to fund both a PhD and an MD, including scholarships, grants, loans, and partially and fully funded programs for each 

Frequently asked questions about the differences between MD and PhDs  

Is a phd higher than an md, who gets paid more an md or a phd, is a phd harder than an md, scholarships360 recommended.

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

What Are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

Our cookies

We use cookies for three reasons: to give you the best experience on PGS, to make sure the PGS ads you see on other sites are relevant , and to measure website usage. Some of these cookies are necessary to help the site work properly and can’t be switched off. Cookies also support us to provide our services for free, and by click on “Accept” below, you are agreeing to our use of cookies .You can manage your preferences now or at any time.

Privacy overview

We use cookies, which are small text files placed on your computer, to allow the site to work for you, improve your user experience, to provide us with information about how our site is used, and to deliver personalised ads which help fund our work and deliver our service to you for free.

The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalised web experience.

You can accept all, or else manage cookies individually. However, blocking some types of cookies may affect your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.

You can change your cookies preference at any time by visiting our Cookies Notice page. Please remember to clear your browsing data and cookies when you change your cookies preferences. This will remove all cookies previously placed on your browser.

For more detailed information about the cookies we use, or how to clear your browser cookies data see our Cookies Notice

Manage consent preferences

Strictly necessary cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems.

They are essential for you to browse the website and use its features.

You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. We can’t identify you from these cookies.

Functional cookies

These help us personalise our sites for you by remembering your preferences and settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers, whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then these services may not function properly.

Performance cookies

These cookies allow us to count visits and see where our traffic comes from, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are popular and see how visitors move around the site. The cookies cannot directly identify any individual users.

If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to improve its performance for you.

Marketing cookies

These cookies may be set through our site by social media services or our advertising partners. Social media cookies enable you to share our content with your friends and networks. They can track your browser across other sites and build up a profile of your interests. If you do not allow these cookies you may not be able to see or use the content sharing tools.

Advertising cookies may be used to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not store directly personal information, but work by uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will still see ads, but they won’t be tailored to your interests.

MD vs PhD - Which should You study?

31 st October 2019

• Post on Facebook
• Send to a friend
• Recommend 4

If you want to further your position on the career ladder within the medical profession, then a course of postgraduate study may be your best choice. However, there are two options available for those wishing to pursue further qualifications in medicine - a  PhD  (Doctor of Philosophy) or an MD   (Doctor of Medicine).

Which one should you go for? We take a look at the differences between the two to help you decide...

PhD vs. MD: Course Structure

One of the key differences between a PhD and an MD is the structure of the course. While a PhD is generally lab-based and lasts a minimum of 3 years, the MD lasts 2-3 years and combines a student’s research findings with clinical practice.

Both qualifications require a student to submit a thesis or a portfolio of published work at the end of their course.

PhD vs. MD: Career Ambitions

Whether you decide to study for a PhD in Medicine or for an MD qualification, this will have a significant impact upon your career. For the most part, those with an MD are more suited to clinical roles, using their specialist knowledge to diagnose and interact with patients. For those wishing to be working doctors, this may be the ideal option for you.

However, if you’re looking to take your career in a research-based direction, then you may wish to study a PhD.

PhD vs. MD: Academic Prestige

While both the MD and the PhD are highly regarded qualifications, it could be argued that there is (in general) slightly more prestige attached to having a PhD, as the course is longer and the research more thorough.

Having said this, if you want to pursue a career in clinical practice but academic reputation of your qualification isn't that important to you, it isn’t essential to study on a PhD course. There are a number of prestigious institutions (including University of Cambridge) that offer a wide range of renowned MD qualifications. 

PhD vs. MD: Financial restrictions

One of the key things to take into consideration when studying any postgraduate course is the cost. While all courses are going to cost money, it is important that you consider whether or not you can afford the course before making your application. In order to study on an MD or a PhD the majority of students will finance the course through a combination of loans and external funding.

Despite this, studying on an MD or a PhD may become a financial struggle as both courses are very time demanding. However, with an MD, there are some opportunities to find medical paid work during your clinical learning, whereas this is much harder for those studying on a PhD.

Both MD and PhDs typically costs between £4,000 and £6,000 per year, but as the MD course only lasts 2 years (full-time), the cost of fees is a lot lower. 

- Search for MD courses  or PhD courses  

Your Next Steps

Converting a postgraduate certificate to a masters.

PG certificates are a perfect stepping stone to a Masters degree as you’ll not only...

Five Reasons to do a Postgraduate Diploma

CONTENTS What is a postgraduate diploma? Employability Time Constraints Career...

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Postgraduate Interview...

CONTENTS Do background research Find out about interview format Review...

Related courses

Md doctor of medicine, university of east anglia uea, biosciences and medicine md, university of surrey, doctorate in medicine md, university of bradford, diabetes, renal, endocrine & metabolic medicine md, university of glasgow, doctor of medicine (md), university of leicester, your next steps.

PhD vs MD – Differences Explained

Published 16 October, 2023

A PhD and an MD are both doctorates, but there are important differences between the two degrees.

An MD is a Doctor of Medicine, and a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. An MD program focuses on applying medicine to diagnose and treat patients. A doctoral program of study focuses on research (in any field) to increase knowledge.

Most people with an MD degree go on to work as physicians in some capacity, while those with a PhD often become researchers or professors. It’s important to keep in mind that both degrees can lead to a number of different career paths.

Introduction

The article will outline the key differences between an MD and PhD. If you’re not sure which degree would be best for your goals, then read on to find out what each offers in terms of career prospects!

Meaning of PsyD & PhD

Let’s look at the meaning of PsyD and PhD in depth.

What is a MD?

A MD is a Doctor of Medicine. This is a professional degree that is earned after completing four years of medical school. After completing medical school, MDs must complete a residency program before they can start practising medicine.

According to Cambridge Dictionary,

“Doctor of Medicine: a degree that someone must have to work as a doctor, or a person who has this degree”.

Modern medicine is an important part of our society and those that practice it is known as doctors. There’s one type, in particular, that would be called “allopathic,” which means they use drugs or surgery to treat symptoms and diseases rather than looking at what’s causing your illness from a holistic point-of-view like traditional healers might do (though there can still sometimes come together).

What is a PhD?

A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy. This is an academic degree that is earned after completing a doctoral program of study. A PhD program focuses on research (in any field) to increase knowledge.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary,

“Doctor of philosophy: the highest college or university degree, or someone who has this”.

The PhD is a stepping stone to becoming an academician. You will not have the same requirements as someone who attended medical school or completed their residency program, but instead must defend your research findings and produce a thesis for evaluation by others within this field of study

What is the Difference Between MD and PhD? 

It’s now time to compare the two degrees side by side, utilizing the definitions of PhD and MD.

 Course structure and duration

The typical duration of an MD program is four years, with two years of coursework and classroom-based learning followed by two years of rotational employment in a clinical setting (such as a hospital). To become an MD, you must first attend a medical school (accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education) and complete their resident program. The curriculum teaches students how to diagnose patients while also practising clinical medicine.

The length of a PhD program ranges from 6 to 8 years, and it is designed to conduct research. A PhD alone is insufficient in most cases for physicians to prescribe medication.

The process of earning a PhD starts with writing and defending an original thesis. There are many steps to this, but it’s important that you know what all these entail so there aren’t any surprises along the way. The final stage of a PhD program is the viva voce, or oral examination, where you will be required to answer questions about your research from a panel of experts.

MD vs PhD: Which one is better?

So, which one is better? It depends on your goals and interests. If you want to be a practising physician, then an MD is the better choice. However, if you’re interested in research or teaching at the university level, then a PhD would be the better degree. There are advantages and disadvantages to both MD and PhD programs, so it’s important that you choose the one that’s right for you.

Let’s see the advantages and disadvantages of both MD & PhD.

MD Program:

PhD Program:

What Kinds of Jobs Can MD Prepare You For?

There are many different types of jobs that an MD can prepare you for, including

• Anesthesiologist
• Emergency medicine physician
• Family medicine physician
• Psychiatrist
• Pediatrician

What Kinds of Jobs Can a PhD Prepare You For?

There are many different types of jobs that a PhD can prepare you for, including

• Research scientist
• University professor
• Medical researcher
• Pharmaceutical researcher
• Health policy analyst
• Medical writer

MD and PhD programs are both excellent choices for those interested in pursuing careers in medicine or research. Both degrees will provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in your chosen field. The decision of which degree to pursue should be based on your specific goals and interests. Whichever degree you choose, you can be sure that you will have a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Stuck During Your Dissertation

Our top dissertation writing experts are waiting 24/7 to assist you with your university project,from critical literature reviews to a complete PhD dissertation.

Other Related Guides

• Research Project Questions
• Types of Validity in Research – Explained With Examples
• Schizophrenia Sample Research Paper
• Quantitative Research Methods – Definitive Guide
• Research Paper On Homelessness For College Students
• How to Study for Biology Final Examination
• Textual Analysis in Research / Methods of Analyzing Text

A Guide to Start Research Process – Introduction, Procedure and Tips

Research findings – objectives , importance and techniques.

• Topic Sentences in Research Paper – Meaning, Parts, Importance, Procedure and Techniques

Recent Research Guides for 2023

Get 15% off your first order with My Research Topics

Connect with a professional writer within minutes by placing your first order. No matter the subject, difficulty, academic level or document type, our writers have the skills to complete it.

My Research Topics is provides assistance since 2004 to Research Students Globally. We help PhD, Psyd, MD, Mphil, Undergrad, High school, College, Masters students to compete their research paper & Dissertations. Our Step by step mentorship helps students to understand the research paper making process.

Research Topics & Ideas

• Sociological Research Paper Topics & Ideas For Students 2023
• Nurses Research Paper Topics & Ideas 2023
• Nursing Capstone Project Research Topics & Ideas 2023
• Unique Research Paper Topics & Ideas For Students 2023
• Teaching Research Paper Topics & Ideas 2023
• Literary Research Paper Topics & Ideas 2023
• Nursing Ethics Research Topics & Ideas 2023

Research Guide

Disclaimer: The Reference papers provided by the Myresearchtopics.com serve as model and sample papers for students and are not to be submitted as it is. These papers are intended to be used for reference and research purposes only.

Complimentary 1-hour tutoring consultation Schedule Now

What’s the Difference Between MD and PhD Programs?

What’s the difference between MD and PhD programs? Both an MD and a Ph.D. are doctorates awarded to people who finish the highest level of graduate education. However, MD and Ph.D. holders have quite distinct professional paths. Understanding the difference between MD and Ph.D. will help you choose the one that best matches your academic and career goals. Here, we’ll go through the similarities and distinctions between an MD and a Ph.D., as well as some pointers on how to decide between the two. Here are these medical degrees explained:

The Difference Between MD and Ph.D.

MDs are medical doctors who treat patients, whereas PhDs are researchers who specialize in a particular field of study. The Latin phrase medicinae doctor , which translates to teacher of medicine , is where we get the English acronym MD. People who have earned an MD, also known as a Doctor of Medicine, have participated in clinical training during their time in graduate school in order to become physicians upon completion of their studies.

The title philosophiae doctor , from which we get the name Ph.D., literally translates to teacher of philosophy . However, the term is applicable to a wider variety of people than merely philosophy teachers. Students pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy degree, sometimes known as a Ph.D., follow a curriculum distinct from that followed by those pursuing a Doctor of Medicine. Ph.D. candidates are required to undertake research in their respective fields of study rather than getting experience in the workforce. Graduates with PhDs usually find employment in a field relevant to their major or the specialized field they studied.

Dual MD/Ph.D. Programs

An MD/Ph.D. is a dual doctorate. The curriculum alternates between clinical and research-oriented components. This is perfect for people who want to learn both clinical and research-focused aspects of medicine. Approximately 600 students enter MD-PhD programs annually, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges.

MD/ Ph.D. vs MD 

MD Ph.D. graduates are also known as physician-scientists or medical scientists since they hold a Ph.D. in addition to their MD degree. Medical professionals with an MD degree and a Ph.D. are both considered medical doctors. To obtain this additional degree, you will need to participate in a program that is longer and structured differently than MD programs. MD Ph.D. programs typically last anywhere from seven to eight years and require students to attend both medical school and graduate school. On the other hand, medical doctor (MD) programs can be finished in just four years, which is just half the amount of time required for MD Ph.D. students.

Although the initial two years of instruction in both programs take place in classrooms, MD Ph.D. students continue to graduate school to work on their dissertations for an additional three to four years after those first two years. After that, they will return to medical school to complete their clinical training for another year or two. To obtain a license to practice medicine, graduates with an MD or MD Ph.D. degree must first finish a residency program that lasts between three and seven years.

Application and Cost

The application process is the same whether you are interested in an MD Ph.D. or an MD program. Most programs require you to apply through AMCAS. You will fill out all application sections (including the AMCAS work and activities section) and upload your coursework, letters of recommendation, and medical school personal statement. Find out if the CASPer test is required for admission to the schools of your choice. If so, begin practicing with CASPer sample questions as soon as possible. Students will be required to write two additional essays to explain why they want to pursue an MD Ph.D. degree as well as their research experience. 

In public medical schools, the annual tuition and fees for MD students are about $37,000; in private or out-of-state medical schools, the annual tuition and fees are about $62,000. In contrast, students enrolled in MD-PhD programs have access to reduced or even free tuition, as many programs waive tuition and provide financial aid to cover living costs. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) funds 49 MD Ph.D. programs through the highly competitive Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP).

Competition

Both MD Ph.D. and MD programs are notoriously difficult to get into, with acceptance rates ranging on average from 1 percent to 4 percent. The number of available MD Ph.D. programs is significantly lower than the number of MD programs, and the advantage of significantly reduced or waived tuition contributes to an even higher level of competition, particularly in MSTPs compared to MD programs.

To be a competitive MD Ph.D. applicant, you should have a higher GPA and MCAT score than if you applied as an MD applicant. MD programs have varying levels of competition, and there are MD programs that receive a large number of applicants competing for a limited number of spots. It is entirely dependent on the school, the program, and the application cycle to determine whether or not some MD programs are more competitive than MD-PhD programs.

Salary and Career Prospects

Although it may appear obvious that students who graduate from MD programs become medical doctors and the majority of them practice medicine in hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices, some students are unsure of what a career as a physician-scientist entails. Although many MD Ph.D. graduates choose to complete their residency training in internal medicine, pathology, pediatrics, and neurology, there are also graduates working in a wide variety of other medical specialties, including surgery, radiology, and emergency medicine. Other typical specialties for MD graduates include pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family medicine. One study by the American Association for Medical Education and Research (AAMC) found that nearly 80 percent of MD Ph.D. graduates are employed as professors at medical schools or in research institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), pharmaceutical companies, and other government agencies. More than 7,000 MD-PhD alumni participated in this study, and 82% said they would do it all over again, even if they could go back in time and do it all over again.

Physician-scientists are trained to not only have in-depth knowledge of the medical field but also of population health and disease, as well as the ability to conduct research and analysis independently. With a dual degree, physician-scientists can treat patients, detect health threats, and develop new treatments, therapies, or cures. When employed in academic settings, physician-scientists have the opportunity to teach, provide clinical services, and conduct their own or joint research. Physician-scientists typically earn between $60,000 and $115,000 per year, depending on the type and location of employment.

Physicians are responsible for managing and supporting the health and wellbeing of the patients in their care. They can manage and significantly improve their patients’ health through physical exams, diagnostic tests, treatment, and communication. Surgical procedures and treatment of illness and disease, either on a general or a specific level, may be performed by doctors of different specialties. The range of annual salaries is usually between $180,000 and $280,000, depending on the level of specialization.

Which Option Is the Most Suitable for You? MD or MD-PhD?

For some students putting on the safety glasses in science class or reviving a childhood teddy bear was a defining moment in choosing the medical field as their future path. However, not everyone is blessed with an immediate passion or the typical “aha” moment. Sometimes, a student’s interest in medicine or research develops later in life through experiences or education, which is perfectly normal. So what if your interests lie somewhere between the two fields of science and medicine? What factors should you consider when deciding between obtaining a degree in medicine (MD) and a joint degree (MD-PhD)? It is essential to choose only after you have considered various factors and are one hundred percent sure about your decision. The reality is that neither choice will be easy, and you’ll need to be willing to invest the necessary amount of time, money, and effort to achieve success.

Why Do Some Students Choose an MD-PhD?

Here are some reasons why people want to be both doctors and scientists.

As a physician-scientist, you’ll have a unique career path. One of the most rewarding aspects of working as a medical researcher is solving a patient’s medical issues while pursuing scientific research that could lead to a clinical cure for that particular disease.

MD-PhD trainees are medical researchers who also have a strong desire to practice medicine in a clinical setting.

The MD-PhD curriculum is designed to integrate the scientific and medical education of the future physician-scientist effectively and efficiently.

In the years leading up to their Ph.D., MD-PhD students complete coursework and receive formal training in research methodology.

Most MD-PhD programs offer trainees financial support in the form of stipends and scholarships to cover tuition costs. This financial support acknowledges the amount of time a student must devote to training in order to pursue a career in both medicine and research (MD-PhD). However, each program’s level of financial assistance varies, and some may provide assistance to only United States citizens and permanent residents.

MD-PhD Training Areas of Research

When applying to specific MD-PhD Programs, one essential factor to consider is the variety of the available graduate degree programs.

Most candidates for MD-PhD programs earn their Ph.D. in a biomedical laboratory discipline like cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, physiology, neuroscience, or biomedical engineering.

Students in some MD-PhD programs may also complete graduate work in non-laboratory disciplines such as computer science, economics, epidemiology, health care policy, or even the history of medicine and its social and cultural influences.

How to Choose Between an MD and a Ph.D.

Figure out what motivates you the most.

It would help if you first consider what you’re interested in and what drives you. This will help you figure out what you’re passionate about. Suppose you are confident that you are interested in medicine and assisting other people but are only slightly interested in research. In that case, it is probably a good idea to pursue medicine on its own rather than research. The MD Ph.D. program isn’t easy because it takes almost twice as long as an MD program. Students should only go for this joint degree if they are serious about both medicine and research. The joint program may be a good fit for you if you have a strong interest in disease mechanisms, are curious about the unknown, and can’t imagine a career that doesn’t involve research in some capacity.

First and foremost, decide if you want to become a medical doctor or a physician-scientist. People driven by their passions are more likely to find fulfillment in their work because they are doing what they truly want to do. You’ll have a rewarding career only when you have enough motivation to put in the necessary time and effort.

Think About the Dynamics of Your Preferred Job

Doctors spend a lot of time talking to their patients and families, and they need good communication skills. In hospitals, doctors may work unusual hours, even on weekends and holidays; in offices, they can have a more conventional schedule. If you decide to get a Ph.D., you might spend a lot of time working alone in a lab, or you might decide to teach students in your field. Whether you want an MD or a Ph.D. can depend on what kind of work environment and schedule you want.

Trust Your Own Experience

Is it possible to know for sure which path is the best for you? Before submitting your applications, get some hands-on experience in the field. This is the best opportunity to see whether you’ll like your future career path. If you’re torn between an MD and an MD Ph.D. program, make sure you get some clinical and research experience before making a decision. This is an excellent opportunity for you to gain practical experience in both fields and determine which ones pique your interest the most. You could sign up for volunteering opportunities that will give you first-hand experience in medicine or research. These experiences will be crucial when applying to medical school, but they’ll also help you narrow your interests.

Finally, remember that if you are still unsure which path is the best, you could always reach out to our Academic Advisors and seek their guidance.

By setting up a free one-on-one meeting with our friendly and knowledge advisors, you will be able to gain the valuable insight as to which career path you would like to take and how to get there. CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED .

Your Notifications Live Here

{{ notification.creator.name }} Spark

{{ announcement.creator.name }}

Trial Session Enrollment

Live trial session waiting list.

Next Trial Session:

{{ nextFTS.remaining.months }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.months > 1 ? 'months' : 'month' }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.days }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.days > 1 ? 'days' : 'day' }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.days === 0 ? 'Starts Today' : 'remaining' }} Starts Today

Recorded Trial Session

This is a recorded trial for students who missed the last live session.

Waiting List Details:

Due to high demand and limited spots there is a waiting list. You will be notified when your spot in the Trial Session is available.

• Learn Basic Strategy for CARS
• Full Jack Westin Experience
• Interactive Online Classroom
• Emphasis on Timing

Next Trial:

Free Trial Session Enrollment

Daily mcat cars practice.

New MCAT CARS passage every morning.

You are subscribed.

{{ nextFTS.remaining.months }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.months > 1 ? 'months' : 'month' }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.days }} {{ nextFTS.remaining.days > 1 ? 'days' : 'day' }} remaining Starts Today

Welcome Back!

Please sign in to continue..

Please sign up to continue.

{{ detailingplan.name }}.

• {{ feature }}

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

Ph.D. Vs. MD: What’s The Difference?

• Undergraduate vs. Graduate
• Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA
• APR vs. APY
• Dual Degree vs. Double Major
• Master's vs. Phd
• Private vs. Public College
• CAPM vs. PMP
• High School Diploma vs. GED

Find a Job You Really Want In

For individuals looking to pursue a doctorate, most are faced with the decision between PhDs ( Doctor of Philosophy) or MDs (Doctor of Medicine) degrees. These two may seem similar in nature, but there are key differences it’s important to understand before you pursue either one. Depending on your professional goals, one may suit you better than the other.

Both PhDs and MDs represent the highest level of graduate school one can receive. They are prestigious degrees in both regards but can significantly impact your career path once you’re finished with school. In this article, we’ll discuss what each degree is, the differences between them, and which one may be best for the types of goals an individual seeks.

Key Takeaways:

What Is an MD?

MD stands for Doctor of Medicine, meaning those who achieve this level of education are allopathic doctors. This means they are individuals who are licensed to treat and diagnose conditions using tools like x-rays, prescription drugs, and surgery. They can work as broader practitioners or work with a specific specialty.

Pursuing an MD means individuals are pursuing a traditional medical degree where they undergo practical training as they work through graduate school in the hopes of becoming licensed physicians by the time they graduate. Depending on their fields of specialty, their training may vary. Some of these specialties include

Surgery. Surgeons are doctors who specialize in evaluating and treating conditions that require physical changes to the human body. Surgeons use instruments to move live tissues in order to treat a specific ailment or illness. They can perform both open surgery and minimally invasive surgery.

Specific body parts or organs. MDs can also specialize in body parts or organs, becoming a cardiologist who is an expert on the heart, gastroenterologists who specialize in digestive organs, hematologists who specialize in blood, or neurologists who specialize in the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Psychiatry. Psychiatrists are MDs who specialize in mental health, which can include substance use disorders. They are licensed and qualified to assess the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems as well as administer certain prescription drugs to help with these issues.

Geriatric medicine. MDs in geriatrics have additional specialized training in treating the ailments and illnesses of older patients. They often work in outpatient settings, nursing facilities, or hospitals. They often have added knowledge of diseases such as dementia, incontinence, or osteoporosis.

Pediatrics. Pediatricians are MDs who focus on the health of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults, typically up to age 21. These doctors prevent, detect, and manage any physical, behavioral, or developmental issues that may arise in children or young adults.

In order to become an MD, students must attend graduate school with the specific goal of becoming a physician . It’s during this time most choose a specialty and gain specific experience in that area. Because MDs have expertise in practicing medicine, they are more likely to be found in clinical environments.

A standard program for an MD requires students to take two years of coursework in a classroom-based setting. Then, they’ll be required to take two years of rotational work in a clinical environment. They must attend an accredited medical school as well as a residency program that prepares them to diagnose patients and practice medicine.

What Is a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. or Doctor of Philosophy is a doctoral research degree that requires the completion of intensive research in order to become an expert in a specific field. To receive this type of degree, a Ph.D. must defend a dissertation or a research document. Unlike an MD, a Ph.D. can be awarded for carrying out original research in any field, not just medicine.

A Ph.D. in a medicinal field is focused on finding out new knowledge as opposed to learning current knowledge, like an MD. That means if you pursue a Ph.D. in medicine, you are not required to attend medical school or complete a residency program. Your dissertation and defense of that dissertation are what complete your program.

Ph.D. programs focus almost entirely on conducting, compiling, and contributing to specific research. The standard Ph.D. program lasts anywhere from five to seven years and seeks students undertaking original research that is typically monitored by a supervisor . Achieving a Ph.D. means the student has contributed to novel findings leading to advancement in knowledge.

There is such a wide variety of Ph.D. fields, but it would be impossible to list them all here; however, it’s important to note that most Ph.D. students continue their studies in their field long after graduation is behind them. Typically they will continue their research and participate in other programs that allow for further research.

Individuals working towards a Ph.D. often choose to work in academia, such as at a college or university, where they can continue their research. Others may opt to work for independent companies such as pharmaceutical or engineering companies. Others may use their Ph.D. in fields unrelated to research, such as senior positions in their field of study.

Ph.D. vs. MD FAQ

Is an MD or Ph.D. better?

Depending on your professional goals, an MD degree is better for those interested in practicing medicine, while a Ph.D. is better for individuals looking to advance knowledge in certain fields.

Does an MD or Ph.D. make more money?

This typically depends on the specific specialty or setting, but MDs typically earn more money than those with a Ph.D.

Can an MD research without obtaining a Ph.D.?

Yes, an MD does not need a Ph.D. to conduct research.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

Supervisor Vs. Manager: What’s The Difference?

Executive Producer Vs. Producer: What’s The Difference?

INFJ Vs. INFP Personality Types: What’s The Difference?

Absolute Advantage Vs. Comparative Advantage: What’s The Difference?

• Career Advice >
• Education >

What is the Real Difference between an MD and PhD?

Phds advance knowledge, whereas mds merely apply existing knowledge..

Posted March 7, 2011 | Reviewed by Kaja Perina

If you ask someone in the psychology world how people with PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy ) differ from those with MD (Doctor of Medicine) you may get an answer like "MDs can prescribe medication , whereas PhDs cannot." That is true. Another difference is that MDs generally make more money in the United States.

MDs are consider by many to be the "real doctors" because they can help with physiological medical problems. That too is true. I certainly don't refer to myself as "Dr. Kelly" in any context other than an academic setting, because people might get the false impression that I could jump in and help in the event of a broken foot or migraine headache.

All that sounds pretty bad for the PhD. But here's the most essential difference between the two degrees: PhDs advance knowledge, whereas MDs merely apply existing knowledge. Unlike the MD who does not need to produce any original research, the person earning a PhD must produce original research and write it up in a thesis or dissertation. Then a committee of experts must deem that thesis as offering an acceptable advancement of knowledge before the PhD is conferred. It typically takes a couple of years longer to earn a PhD than an MD. Part of the reason it takes so long is that the person earning the PhD is being trained on how to think critically about existing knowledge, and it can take a while to find one's niche and fill a gap in the knowledge base.

If you yourself want to make important scientific discoveries and then tell the world about them, you will be much better prepared by getting a PhD than an MD. You also will be much better prepared to criticize studies you read about in virtually any field because you will be trained in critical thinking and writing.

If you are deciding which degree is right for you, ask yourself if you will be content with applying the knowledge you learn (MD) from other people, or if you would like to get in on the action of making the discoveries yourself (PhD). For instance, would you like to be one of the scientists who are figuring out how to reverse the aging process (PhD)? Would you like to see if giving aging mice a particular the enzyme (one that you discover) makes their hair shiny again and restores their fertility (PhD)? Or would you be content giving your future medical patients the proper dose of the medications that arise from this research and then seeing the signs of youth return in your patients (MD)? These are the kinds of questions that college students everywhere should be asking themselves, and yet I have never seen them do so.

This difference in training also means that if you want to know what the cutting -edge knowledge is in a given field, you have to ask a PhD in that field, not an MD. So for instance, let's say you or your mate is having trouble getting pregnant . If you just ask your local obstetrician or gynecologist what the cutting edge discoveries are regarding fertility, that MD is not likely to know. That MD can give you fertility treatments that he or she has learned about and tried with other patients. It should be noted, however, that many MDs make an effort to remain abreast of scientific research long after their degree has been conferred.

The upshot of my message is this: We need both kinds of people, those who apply existing knowledge (such as the MD does in the medical field) and those who advance it (PhDs). But if you think a PhD is less qualified than an MD when it comes to having cutting-edge knowledge, you have that backwards.

Anita E. Kelly, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Notre Dame. She is author of The Clever Student and The Psychology of Secrets.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Centre
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• Calgary, AB
• Edmonton, AB
• Hamilton, ON
• Montréal, QC
• Toronto, ON
• Vancouver, BC
• Winnipeg, MB
• Mississauga, ON
• Oakville, ON
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Therapy Center NEW
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Understanding what emotional intelligence looks like and the steps needed to improve it could light a path to a more emotionally adept world.

• Coronavirus Disease 2019
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

Sign up to our Newsletter

Md vs md phd: how to choose your best path.

Reviewed by:

Luke Hartstein

Former Admissions Committee Member, NYU Grossman School of Medicine

Reviewed: 10/16/23

You’re a prospective med student, and you’ve started your preliminary research on how to choose a medical school that will cultivate your interests and teach you the skills needed to be a leader in healthcare. Perhaps you greatly enjoy biomedical research and would like to combine your two passions: practicing medicine and conducting scientific research. 

You may have noticed that many medical schools not only offer the traditional Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree but dual degrees as well. One of the most common of these dual degree programs is the MD PhD.

So, what is the MD versus the MD PhD, and how do you choose your best path? This blog will comprehensively review the similarities and differences between the MD and MD PhD degrees, including the application process and the education you can expect to receive for each program. 

This blog will also cover important topics such as career outlook and salary. Finally, we will provide tips for choosing between the MD and MD PhD pathways, so that you can make the best decision for your unique career goals.

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

What is an MD? ‍

An MD is simply a Doctor of Medicine or physician who obtained their MD degree at an allopathic medical school accredited by the LCME (Liaison Committee of Medical Education). Allopathic medicine focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disease. When people think of physicians, they generally think of MDs. 

To become an MD, you must:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university and complete all required prerequisite courses for medical school . Your pre-med major doesn’t need to be in the sciences, but you need to complete science prerequisite coursework, including labs. Every school has specific requirements regarding which prerequisites to take, so check with the schools to ensure that you fulfill all undergrad requirements. If you need help with selecting and scheduling your prerequisite coursework, connect with a pre-health advisor. 
• Take the MCAT and earn a competitive score . The MCAT is one of the most important selection factors for medical schools, and it is a strong indicator of your academic performance. Matriculated students often exceed the school’s minimum required MCAT score, so you should aim to fall within or exceed the school’s median MCAT score. In addition to the MCAT, some medical schools require the CASPer test .
• Graduate from an accredited allopathic medical school. Most MD programs are four years, with a few exceptions. For example, some schools have accelerated MD degrees that you can complete in just three years.
• Complete a residency . Residency programs typically last from three to eight years. Residents perform extensive duties in a clinical setting, such as interpreting charts and lab work, taking patient histories, attending conferences, and conducting physical exams. Residency applicants are matched to programs depending on their personal preferences via the National Resident Matching Program.
• Obtain licensure. MDs must obtain a license to practice medicine by passing the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). Each state has different requirements to become licensed. For example, some states limit the number of times you can take the USMLE, while other states have no such restrictions on exam attempts. 
• Continue your education. Generally, physicians must complete state-required continuing education before renewing licensure every couple of years. 

What is an MD PhD?

An MD PhD is also a Doctor of Medicine who additionally holds a PhD in scientific research. MD PhDs are known as physician-scientists or medical scientists. There are over 100 MD PhD programs affiliated with medical schools, and approximately 40 programs are partially supported by training grants known as MSTPs (Medical Science Training Programs).

Physician-scientists focus on both scientific research/discovery and treating patients in clinical settings. They have the unique skill set to research healthcare topics, including biomedical sciences, biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, immunology, genetics, physiology, pharmacology, and neuroscience. 

In short, MD PhDs blend scientific research with clinical medicine. 

To become an MD PhD, you must:

• Complete all of the requirements for medical school to obtain your traditional MD degree. 
• In addition to attending medical school for your MD, you must also attend graduate school for your PhD. Because you are completing both programs dually, the duration of your education is seven to eight years (four years for the MD; three to four years for the PhD).
• Complete medical training and conduct mentored, integrated, and mechanism-based research throughout the PhD program and for your thesis. 

MD PhD programs actively seek applicants who exhibit the core competencies of entering medical students and have an aptitude for biomedical research. Applicants must have strong critical thinking and analytical skills to conduct and interpret research. Lastly, and most importantly, prospective candidates should have substantial research experience .

MD vs MD PhD: Application Process and Education

The application process for the MD and MD PhD programs is very similar. For most allopathic medical schools, you will use the AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).

There are exceptions; for example, Texas medical schools use the TMDSAS (Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service). As always, follow every school’s individual requirements to use the appropriate application service portals. 

In the AMCAS, you will have to select which degree you’re applying to and enter all required information. For the MD program, there are nine sections:

• Sections 1-3 are where you will input background information, such as your name, biographical information, identifiers, and the schools you’ve attended. 
• Section 4 is where you will enter your school transcripts and undergraduate coursework. 
• Section 5 is the work and activities section where you will enter relevant extracurricular activities , work experience, and appropriate hobbies . 
• Section 6 is where you will upload your letters of evaluation. 
• Section 7 is where you will enter the school’s information, such as the program to which you’re applying and whether you’re applying for an early decision. 
• Section 8 is the personal statement . 
• Section 9 is where you will enter your test scores, such as the MCAT. 

To apply to the MD PhD program, you will have to complete all nine sections of the AMCAS. Additionally, you will have to complete two additional essays that describe your reasons for pursuing the MD PhD degree and your research experience.

Here is a general idea of what the MD PhD education looks like, year by year, according to the AAMC:

Discover how Patrick got into six fully funded MD/ Phd programs in the video below.

MD vs MD PhD: Career Outlook and Salary ‍

Both MDs and MD PhDs enjoy lucrative, rewarding careers in medicine. Typically, MDs become physicians who practice medicine in hospitals, private practices, clinics, and other medical centers. MD PhDs become physician-scientists, and according to the AAMC , nearly 80% of them follow career paths consistent with their training, which include working in medical schools as faculty members or in other research institutions, such as the NIH (National Institutes of Health) and other federal agencies. 

Physician-scientists are highly valued for both their medical training to treat patients and their extensive knowledge of public health, disease, treatment, and hot topics in healthcare. They can work in academia and teach, or they can combine clinical service with independent research. According to the AAMC, over 80% of graduates said that they would choose the MD PhD program again if given the chance. This should give you an idea of how passionate physician-scientists are about biomedical research.

For MDs , depending on their specialty and setting, the average annual salary is around $220k. For MD PhDs , depending on the type of role and place of employment, the average annual salary is about $100k.

Which is Better? Tips for Choosing Between the Two ‍

So, now that you know a bit more about the MD and MD PhD degrees, which is better? To make the best decision for your goals, keep the following tips in mind:

Examine your passions honestly.

Are you excited to work with patients, but research doesn’t motivate you as much? Then you should stick with the traditional MD degree. Students who pursue the MD PhD do so because of their equal passion for clinical medicine and research. Keep in mind that the MD PhD has additional years of school, so it is not a decision that should be made lightly.  ‍

Use your experiences and extracurricular activities to guide you. ‍

Think back to your medical shadowing or clinical experience . Compare your insights to your research experience. Which experience was the most rewarding to you? Which did you enjoy the most? Can you see yourself conducting research your entire career? It would be helpful to use your experiences and extracurricular activities as a measure of your interests.

In short, students who don’t absolutely love research should consider pursuing an MD degree, while those who do love research should look into the MD PhD dual degree.

1. What are the top MD programs in the United States?

According to the US News & World Report , the following medical schools consistently rank the highest:

• Harvard Medical School
• Perelman School of Medicine
• Grossman School of Medicine (NYU)
• Johns Hopkins University
• Stanford Medical School
• Columbia University
• Mayo Clinic School of Medicine 
• David Geffen School of Medicine (UCLA)
• Washington University
• Cornell University
• Duke University
• University of California - San Francisco
• Vanderbilt University
• Yale University

2. How do I know which MD PhD program is right for me?

Ultimately, you will have to decide for yourself which program is the best fit for your particular interests and career goals. However, take a look at the US News & World Report’s list of signs that an MD PhD program is a great fit:

• There is ample funding.
• The location is desirable for your requirements.
• There is a good balance between clinics and research.
• The school has a history of strong publications/research.
• The program’s academic breadth is multi-disciplinary, ensuring that students will have a good selection of topics to research.
• Clinical training is introduced early in the program.
• There are numerous mentors available to oversee research projects.
• Current MD PhD students are satisfied with their program.
• The program’s alumni perform high-level research and publishing, which is a strong indicator of future success.
• The program’s mission and culture align with your academic and career goals.

3. Can I apply to the MD program and the MD PhD program at one school in the same cycle? ‍

In the AMCAS, you must indicate the program to which you are applying, and it cannot be both for one school in the same application cycle. However, if you indicate that you are applying to the MD PhD program, most schools will first consider you for the dual degree program, and if you are not accepted, they will consider you for the MD program. Please reach out to your selection of schools to learn more about their application procedures regarding dual degrees and final decisions. ‍

4. What topics in healthcare do MD PhDs research?

According to the AAMC , MD PhDs can research various topics in the following disciplines:

• Biochemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics 
• Cell and Developmental Biology 
• Immunology 
• Molecular Biology and Genetics 
• Microbiology and Infectious Disease 
• Neuroscience 
• Pathology and Mechanisms of Disease 
• Pharmacology 
• Bioengineering and Biomedical Imaging 
• Chemical and Physical Sciences 
• Computational Biology and Bioinformatics 
• Public Health, Epidemiology, and Preventative Medicine 
• Social and Behavioral Sciences 

There may be variations among different programs, so verify with the school before you apply.  ‍

5. Is financial assistance available for MD programs?

Generally, yes. The cost of attendance is an important consideration when applying to medical schools. There is federal assistance through FAFSA, in addition to scholarships, grants, and loans. To learn more about financial planning, please reach out to the Student Financial Services office for every school you apply to discuss your options. 

6. Is financial assistance available for MD PhD programs?

One of the most significant perks of MD PhD programs is that most either partially cover or completely waive tuition for students. Stipends are also very common to cover the costs of living expenses for students. Because of this, many MD PhDs graduate with little to no debt. Although this shouldn’t be the only deciding factor for pursuing the MD PhD degree (remember to keep your goals in mind), it is a benefit that may spare you from, on average, $200k in debt.

7. What counts as a substantial research experience?

Substantial research experience involves some effort and commitment on your part. Before applying to the MD PhD program, be sure to have multiple summer research projects. You are also encouraged to have one or more years of pursuing research after completing your bachelor’s degree. This may mean that you have to take a gap year to bolster your application with research experience, but don’t worry. 

Many students take a gap year for this very reason, to gain relevant experiences and strengthen their application. You should also strive to have publications, and it’s important to list them in your application materials. You must also have experience in accurately testing a hypothesis. It is also important to note that gaining more research experience will strengthen your skills in this field, but you will work with supervisors and mentors who can become potential letter writers for strong letters of recommendation . 

8. Where can I find more information about the MD PhD degree? ‍

For more information about the MD PhD degree , please visit AAMC’s MD PhD authority site .

Conclusion ‍

As you can see, both the MD and MD PhD programs will lead to lucrative careers in medicine. Whether you pursue the MD degree or the MD PhD dual degree depends on your interests, motivations, passions, academic goals, and career aspirations. When you’re applying to either program, be sure to follow the medical school’s specific application guidelines and procedures.

Use the correct application service and select the program to which you’re applying. If you’re applying to the MD PhD program, be sure to complete all nine sections of the AMCAS in addition to the two essays that describe your reasons for pursuing the MD PhD program and your research experience. 

Make sure your research experience is substantial. It’s important to have a competitive edge over other MD PhD candidates who undoubtedly will have their own strong research experiences and publications. No matter which path you choose, we wish you the best of luck in your efforts. 

Schedule A Free Consultation

You may also like.

Medical Schools in Nebraska: List + How to Get In

Pharmacy School Application Timeline

• Medical School

MD PhD vs MD: Which is best for you?

If you find yourself struggling between pursuing an MD PhD vs MD degree, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore the similarities and differences between medical doctors and physician-scientists to help you determine how to choose the pathway that is best suited for you.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 7 min read

Md phd vs md: education.

While those with MD PhD and MD degrees are both medical doctors, MD PhD graduates also possess a PhD and are therefore known as physician-scientists or medical scientists. Obtaining this extra degree requires a different program structure and length compared to MD programs. MD PhD programs are generally 7-8 years in length and require attendance at both medical and graduate school. MD programs, on the other hand, will be completed in four years, half the time it will take MD PhD students. While both programs are classroom-based during the first two years, MD PhD students will move on to graduate school to complete their PhD thesis for between 3-4 years. They will then return to medical school for a year or two completing clinical rotations. Both MD PhD and MD graduates will complete their residency training for between 3-7 years before being licensed to practice medicine.

MD PhD vs MD: Application and Tuition

Whether you're interested in an MD PhD or an MD program, the application process is similar. You'll apply to most programs through AMCAS where you'll complete all sections of the application including the AMCAS work and activities section and you'll upload your coursework, letters of evaluation, and medical school personal statement . Make sure to find out if the schools of your choice require you to take CASPer test. If so, start practicing using CASPer sample questions as soon as you can. In addition to the standard application components, MD PhD applicants will have to complete two additional essays that describe both their reasons for pursuing an MD PhD degree and their research experience. Review our medical school application timelines  blog to ensure you're aware of the application process and corresponding deadlines.

It's no secret that both MD PhD and MD programs are extremely competitive, with acceptance rates on average between 1-4%. There are far fewer MD PhD programs available compared with MD programs and the large benefit of reduced or waived tuition makes for even higher competition, especially in MSTPs vs MD programs. It's a good idea to use our medical school chance predictor to see how your grades and test scores compare with the average scores of accepted individuals into either program. Last year, MD PhD matriculants had an average MCAT score of 516 and an average GPA of 3.80 compared with the 511.5 MCAT score and 3.73 GPA of MD matriculants. So, we can see that in order to be a competitive MD PhD applicant, you'll have to possess a higher GPA and MCAT score than if you were to apply as an MD applicant. Of course, the level of competition varies between schools, and there are certainly MD programs that receive a high volume of applicants competing for few spots making some MD programs more competitive than MD-PhD programs, it's entirely dependant on the school, program, and application cycle.

MD PhD vs MD: Career Outlook and Salary

Although it may seem obvious that students who graduate from MD programs become medical doctors and most practice medicine at hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices, some students are unsure of what a career looks like as a physician-scientist. Many MD PhD graduates choose to complete their residency training in internal medicine, pathology, pediatrics, and neurology, however, many other specialties are also represented, from surgery to radiology to emergency medicine. Internal medicine is also a common specialty choice for MD graduates as well as pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family medicine. According to a study conducted by the AAMC, nearly 80% of all MD PhD graduates enjoy careers as faculty members at medical schools or work for the National Institute of Health (NIH), other research institutions, industry, and federal agencies with many devoting a large portion of their time to research. Also, out of roughly 7000 MD-PhD alumni that took part in this study, 82% said that they would partake in MD-PhD training again, even if they had the chance to go back in time and change their mind.

Physician-scientists not only possess in-depth knowledge in the medical field, they also have knowledge of population health and disease and will be trained to conduct independent research and analysis. With this dual degree, physician-scientists are highly valued for their ability to treat patients while also contributing to detecting health threats, developing new treatments, therapies or even cures. Physician-scientists working in academia can teach and provide clinical service, while also conducting their own, or joint, research. The annual salary for physician-scientists is usually between $60,000-$115,000, depending on the type and place of employment.

Physicians manage and support the health and well-being of those in their care. Through physical examinations, diagnostic testing, treatment, and communication, they can manage and significantly improve the health of their patients. Depending on the type of physician, they may perform surgeries and treat either general or specific illness and disease. Annual salaries generally correspond to level of training and specialization and usually range from $180,000-$280,000

For some, from the moment they put on safety glasses in science class or that time they resuscitate their childhood teddy bear, they knew what they were going to be when they grew up. Not everyone has an immediate passion or the typical “aha” moment later on in life. Sometimes, a student's drive to medicine or research develops later on in life, through experiences, education or even while overcoming hardships, and this is perfectly normal. So, what if you have a passion for both science and medicine? How can you choose whether to pursue an MD degree or a joint MD PhD degree? It's important to choose only once you've considered a variety of factors and are 100% sure in your decision, because the reality is, neither option will be easy and you'll have to be willing to invest the time, money, and effort to be successful.

Find out what drives you.

Start by thinking about what you're interested in and what motivates you to help you determine where your true passions lie. If you know that you are really interested in medicine and in helping others but only have a slight interest in research, then it's probably a good idea to pursue medicine on its own. At nearly twice the length of an MD program, the MD PhD program is no walk in the park. Students should only pursue this joint degree if they have a serious passion for both medicine and research. In addition to feeling passionate about treating patients, if you find yourself interested in the mechanisms behind disease, are curious about the unknowns and can't picture a career that doesn't involve research, it's a good sign that the joint program will be suitable for you.

Determining whether or not you are interested in becoming a medical doctor or a physician-scientist is the first and most important decision you'll have to make when deciding between the two pathways. If you're motivated by your passions, you're likely to enjoy your career because it's actually what you want to do. By putting in the time and effort to be the best version of yourself, you'll have a fulfilling rewarding career.

So, how can you know for sure which path is the best for you? Gain experience in the field well in advance of filling out your applications. This will be closest you'll get to test drive your potential career choice. If you're struggling to decide between an MD and MD PhD program, be sure to gain both clinical and research experience. This will be a great way for you to get hands-on experience in both fields to see which areas really spark your interest and which areas you're not as keen on. Learn how to ask to shadow a doctor , sign up for volunteering experiences that place you in the medical or research field, and partake in scientific experiments where you'll be testing hypotheses to gain research experience. Not only will these experiences be essential when filling out your medical school applications, the key is that through a variety of different experiences, you'll be able to hone in on your interests.

Consider the affordability of each program.

According to the AAMC, approximately 76% of medical school students graduate with debt. For the students that borrow money, the median debt is approximately $200,000 at public medical schools. Of course, with an average physician salary of $300,000, this debt can be repaid, but it can be a rocky start for students as they begin entering their careers. A major benefit of MD PhD programs is the fact that most programs partially cover or completely waive tuition for enrolled students, and many also provide a stipend that can be used to cover the costs of living expenses. Due to this, some students can finish their training debt-free, and potentially even with a decent amount of savings. Now, this isn't to say that you should simply pick a program based on the cost but it's an important factor to consider if you want to pursue either option. What's important is that you pick your path depending on which best aligns with your interests, motivations, and short and long term career goals.

Check out this video for a recap:

Like our blog? Write for us ! >>

Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions, get started now.

Talk to one of our admissions experts

Our site uses cookies. By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy .

FREE Training Webinar: How To Make Your Med School Application Stand Out

(and avoid the top 5 reasons that get 90% of applicants rejected).

Time Sensitive. Limited Spots Available:

We guarantee your acceptance to med school or you don't pay.

Swipe up to see a great offer!

PhD vs MD vs MD PhD – What’s right for you?

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

For some students, choosing between a career in medicine and one in science seems like an impossible task. Many times, students will engage in research during college and develop an interest in medicine and do not want to give up the ability to do both by pursuing either a PhD or MD. Recognizing this desire, many medical schools have also created MD-PhD combined programs that allow students to get both degrees. With the plethora of options offered for graduate degrees coming out of college, many applicants are unsure of which program is best for them.

In this blog post, we will cover the following topics:

• PhD vs MD vs MD PhD?

What are the differences between PhD vs MD?

• MD vs MD PhD – which is right for a future doctor?
• Pros and Cons of MD PhD
• Complete List of MSTP Programs
• Resources for future MD PhD Applicants

Our Students Were Accepted at These MD PhD Programs!

PhD vs MD vs MD PhD

Before we analyze the differences between these programs, we will clearly define what each program consists of.

What is a PhD? PhD programs are funded graduate doctoral degree programs ranging from 4-8 years offered by research universities to teach and mentor graduates to contribute to research in their field, develop societal solutions, and train the next generation of scientists.

What is an MD? MD degrees are granted by allopathic medical schools in the United States, last four years, and prepare graduates to enter the world of medicine as physicians, usually through continued training in residency and fellowship programs.

What is an MD PhD program? MD/PhD programs are funded programs that last 7-9 years and train graduates to be clinical and academic leaders as both physicians and researchers who work closely with patients but also dedicate a significant amount of their time to researching areas adjacent to medicine to improve knowledge and treatment protocols.

When deciding PhD vs MD vs MD PhD, most students will first need to decide what aspects of science are most interesting to them – do they enjoy the interpersonal interactions or working with the biology itself to make new discoveries? First, let’s look at the differences between a PhD vs MD. There are three core differences between getting a PhD and an MD: career opportunities, admissions and training, and cost.

Career Options

As rigorous and prestigious degree programs, both MDs and PhDs have a plethora of career opportunities available to them. Most graduates from MD programs elected to continue their training by completing a residency and fellowship to become specialized and practice medicine. Nonetheless some graduates also choose to pursue alternative careers in public health, business, or education. In fact, 32% of graduates from Stanford’s MD program [1] chose not to a pursue a residency, many drawn by the allure of alternative ways to produce impact in society.

PhD graduates tend to have slightly more options, in both the academic and professional spheres. Many PhD candidates choose to pursue the established path of joining a research university to perform their research while teaching undergraduate and graduate students. This path often is best suited for those extremely passionate about their research topics who seek to mentor younger researchers and students but suffers from department politics attached to rising up professorial ranks and difficulties in receiving funding in certain disciplines.

Many other graduates choose to pursue non-academic work, whether it is joining an established industry company, starting their own companies, or working in public sector agencies. In these endeavors, they are able to leverage much of their subject matter expertise to conduct research, assess business operations and growth options, and contribute to public health or public works initiatives. At the same time, many graduates who take this path may find themselves drifting away from their academic routes and may find a slightly more fast-paced lifestyle than in academia.

Whether you pursue and MD degree or PhD degree, there are several post-graduate career options. 

Admissions and Training

Admissions and training processes and timelines are also highly variable between MD and PhD paths, and require different planning for each.

MD Admissions and Training: MD programs often have extremely long admissions timelines, often starting two years before matriculation when many students begin studying for the MCAT (the medical school admissions exam). In addition, the increasing expectations of applicants has resulted in an increasing number of students taking gap years to adequately prepare to apply. After applying and matriculating, medical students have four years of medical school, followed by anywhere from 3-10 years of post-graduate specialization training. Furthermore, applications often have multiple components, require in-person interviews, and have delayed decision timelines.

PhD Admissions and Training: In contrast, PhD programs have relatively simpler timelines, with most students applying the winter before they plan to matriculate, with many schools not requiring standardized testing (GRE) to apply. After applying, many students receive interviews within a few weeks and an admissions decision soon after. After matriculating, program length can differ significantly, but usually consists of 5-8 years of graduate research and training before one is able to complete their degree.

Despite recruiting students with similar skillsets and backgrounds, medical school and graduate PhD programs have radically different cost structures. While pursuing an MD is a costly endeavor (often ranging from $200-400k), PhDs are usually fully funded and most students receive a generous living stipend. With this in mind, one would assume that most students would naturally gravitate to a PhD. However, while the median biology PhD starting salary is $100k [2] , the median starting salary for a physician is double – at $200k [2] – such that many physicians recoup the cost of their education in the long term. Although the ultimate decision will depend on your desire to take on loans and your career and training area preferences, cost is undoubtably an important component of this decision as well.

What are the differences between MD vs MD PhD

Differences between MD and MD-PhD admissions are neither widely discussed nor well understood, mostly because only 6-7% of students applying to medical school choose to pursue this path. [4]  

MD-PhD programs are one of many dual-degree programs offered by medical schools and allow you to receive medical training while developing expertise in a particular research area. Your research focus can range from hard science like molecular biology and genetics to the social sciences like sociology. Since you would be getting two degrees, a MD-PhD program is designed to take 7-8 years, instead of 4 years for medical school and 5-6 years for a PhD. Usually, MD-PhD candidates will spend their first two years doing pre-clinical coursework with MD students. After completing their pre-medical requirements and taking the STEP 1 exam, MD-PhD students will usually take 3-5 years for their doctoral studies before they return for their final two years of clinical rotations.

In the United States, there are approximately 130 MD-PhD programs and 45 of these programs are known as Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTP) programs. MSTP programs are funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and are very competitive as they offer full tuition coverage, support with living expenses, and a stipend. While some MD-PhD programs are funded by institutions, many of them may not offer the same financial support as an MSTP program.

Since the key difference between the MD and MD-PhD program is the emphasis on research, make sure that you will be able to demonstrate a longstanding commitment to research and that you have tangibly and significantly contributed to research projects, which can take the form of presentations or serving as an author on papers. Also, make sure that your research mentor is prepared to submit a strong recommendation to attest to your readiness for such a rigorous program.

Only 6-7% of medical school applicants apply as an MD PhD candidate

AMCAS most meaningful activity example #2: This applicant chose to write about his work in the emergency room. You can see both the 700 character AMCAS activity description and the 1325 character AMCAS most meaningful essay.

Pros and Cons of Applying MD PhD

Pros of applying md phd vs md, why md phd #1: tuition funding .

There is no doubting it – medical school is very expensive. Since many MD-PhD programs are fully funded with a living stipend on top, many MD-PhD candidates feel that they are being “paid” to pursue this education. While many of their medical school classmates will graduate with tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt, most MD-PhD candidates will not incur any cost during the course of their degree, attracting many looking to avoid accumulating further debt in addition to whatever was accrued during college. Although this funding seems attractive at first, it is important to remember that it comes at the cost of four more years, which could be time spent earning an attending’s salary. Depending on your choice of specialty, receiving this funding could actually be a negative if you aren’t interested in research.

Why MD PhD #2: Allows you to pursue 2 passions

If you are unable to decide between science and medicine, or want to pursue both, applying to an MD-PhD program will allow you to bridge these two disciplines and enjoy the best of both worlds. Many MD-PhD candidates believe that their professional careers would be incomplete without both research and medicine or seek to combine these two passions in their career. These are the exact candidates that MD-PhD programs exist for as they open up many opportunities that may not be available for regular MD students. Especially if you hope to have a career in academia or research-based medical universities, the skills and competencies of doing research and applying for grants is highly prized.

Why MD PhD #3: Receive great research and medical training in a shorter time period

It is undeniable that the condensed time frame of the MD-PhD program is highly appealing to those who seek to pursue both degrees. Instead of taking 9-10 years if completed separately, an MD-PhD program is highly integrated and structured to allow you to focus on one pursuit at a time while still providing continuity so that you can do research during your medical training and medical volunteering while completing your doctoral work. This blend allows for the shorter time period and still allows you to benefit from receiving high quality science and medical instruction.

Cons of Applying MD PhD vs MD

Why not apply md phd #1: time to complete degree .

Although the condensed format is ideal for those who have their hearts set on getting both an MD and a PhD, if you are unsure about pursuing both degrees or have a clear preference for one, the significantly longer educational period is a major factor to consider. A major aspect of the admission process for the MD-PhD is determining if you are prepared to make an almost decade-long commitment to a discipline, institution, and city. The projected 7-8 years to complete an MD-PhD is just that – a projection. Many times, there are factors both inside and outside of your control that can cause this number to vary greatly and increase to up to 10 years. Furthermore, since many people start their MD-PhDs at 23 or 24 years old, they often complete their residency in their late 30s, a fundamentally different time of your life where many of your friends from college may already have families and have been in the workforce for over a decade.

Why not apply MD PhD #2: You can still do research without a PhD

Although MD-PhD students learn how to apply for grants and the research skills necessary to drive their future academic careers, many MD students often pick up these skills if they take a research year, pursue a master’s degree, or spend a significant amount of time doing research in residency and beyond. In fact, while many researchers in academic institutions are PhDs or MD-PhDs, there are also numerous MDs who spend a large amount of their time dedicated to both clinical and basic science research. Furthermore, if your research interests are solely clinical in nature, you may be better served developing these skills in a residency or pursuing a master’s degree than pursuing an MD-PhD, which is usually more suited for basic scientists. Another downside to the MD-PhD is that while you will be focused on trying to pursue two separate paths as a clinician and scientists, many of your peers will be spending all of their time focusing on one of the two, which may put you at a disadvantage compared to them.

Why not apply MD PhD #3: May limit specialty choice

Finally, while MD-PhD students can technically pursue any residency after they graduate medical school, there is often a push to place them in less competitive and non-surgical specialties where they will have less clinical time and therefore more time to dedicate to their research work. Since surgical specialties are highly procedural, research is often a secondary consideration and usually not as prized as surgical dexterity. Furthermore, since you are more valuable to an academic center as a surgeon performing high value elective procedures than as a researcher, there is often a push to have surgeons focus on their clinical work. Similarly, many MD-PhDs may be encouraged to pursue less competitive specialties where they have more time to focus on their research work or where their research funding may be more valuable than the money they bring in from being a clinician. Although an MD-PhD student is free to pursue any specialty that they desire, these pressures are commonplace and often can stifle strong clinical preferences in favor of research potential.

List of MSTP Programs

As stated earlier, MSTP MD PhD programs are fully funded by the National Institutes of Health. 

As of 2021, here is the list of MSTP MD PhD programs by state.

University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine http://www.uab.edu/medicine/mstp

Stanford University  http://med.stanford.edu/mstp.html

University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine https://vstp.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/

University of California, Irvine School of Medicine http://www.mstp.uci.edu

University of California, Los Angeles & Cal Tech California Institute of Technology David Geffen School of Medicine http://mstp.healthsciences.ucla.edu

University of California, San Diego School of Medicine http://mstp.ucsd.edu

University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine https://mstp.ucsf.edu/

University of Colorado Denver http://www.ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/medicalschool/education/degree_programs/mstp/pages/MSTP.aspx

Connecticut

Yale University School of Medicine http://medicine.yale.edu/mdphd

University of Miami Miller School of Medicine http://mdphd.med.miami.edu

Emory University School of Medicine M.D./Ph.D. Program http://med.emory.edu/MDPHD

Northwestern University Medical School http://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/mstp

University of Chicago Medical Scientist Training Program https://pritzker.uchicago.edu/academics/mstp-landing-page

University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine http://chicago.medicine.uic.edu/mstp

Indiana University School of Medicine, MSTP https://medicine.iu.edu/education/dual-degrees/

University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine https://medicine.uiowa.edu/mstp?

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine https://mdphd.johnshopkins.edu/

University of Maryland School of Medicine http://mdphd.umaryland.edu

Massachusetts

Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There are two MD/PhD programs through Pathways and HST. Read more about Harvard Medical School here:  https://crackingmedadmissions.com/how-to-get-into-harvard-medical-school/ http://www.hms.harvard.edu/md_phd

Tufts University School of Medicine http://sackler.tufts.edu/Academics/MSTP-Welcome

University of Massachusetts Medical School http://umassmed.edu/mdphd

University of Michigan Medical School http://medicine.umich.edu/medschool/education/mdphd-program

University of Minnesota Medical School http://www.med.umn.edu/mdphd

Mayo Medical School https://college.mayo.edu/academics/biomedical-research-training/medical-scientist-training-program-md-phd/

Washington University School of Medicine http://mstp.wustl.edu

Albert Einstein College of Medicine http://www.einstein.yu.edu/education/mstp

Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons http://www.cumc.columbia.edu/mdphd

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai http://icahn.mssm.edu/education/graduate/md-phd-program

New York University School of Medicine http://www.med.nyu.edu/sackler/mdphd-program

Stony Brook University https://medicine.stonybrookmedicine.edu/mstp

University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/education/md/md-phd

Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan-Kettering Tri-Institutional MD PhD  Program http://weill.cornell.edu/mdphd

North Carolina

Duke University Medical Center https://medschool.duke.edu/education/degree-programs-and-admissions/medical-scientist-training-program

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine http://www.med.unc.edu/mdphd

Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine http://mstp.cwru.edu

Ohio State University College of Medicine http://medicine.osu.edu/mstp

University of Cincinnati College of Medicine MSTP http://www.med.uc.edu/MSTP

Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine http://www.ohsu.edu/mdphd

Pennsylvania

Penn State College of Medicine http://www.pennstatehershey.org/web/mdphd

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine http://www.med.upenn.edu/mstp

University of Pittsburgh http://www.mdphd.pitt.edu

South Carolina

Medical University of South Carolina https://education.musc.edu/colleges/graduate-studies/academics/dual-degree/mstp

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine MSTP https://medschool.vanderbilt.edu/mstp

Baylor College of Medicine MSTP https://www.bcm.edu/education/programs/md-phd-program

University of Texas Health Science Center Houston Department of Internal Medicine https://gsbs.uth.edu/mdphd/

University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Department of Neurology, Pharmacology, and Physiology https://lsom.uthscsa.edu/mimg/

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/

University of Virginia Health System MSTP Program http://mstp.med.virginia.edu

University of Washington School of Medicine http://www.mstp.washington.edu

Medical College of Wisconsin MSTP https://www.mcw.edu/education/medical-scientist-training-program

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health http://mstp.med.wisc.edu

Read our medical school profiles to learn more about each individual school. 

Now that we have reviewed what MD, PhD, and MD-PhD degrees consists of and how to apply, as well as some of the pros and cons of pursuing a MD-PhD program, we hope that you can make an informed decision about your graduate education! Even if you choose not to pursue an MD or PhD, many institutions have accelerated programs that allow MD or PhD graduates to complete the other degree in a shorter timeframe. Similarly, many medical schools even allow students to apply to add a PhD portion onto their education before they begin their clinical training. Regardless of whichever path is right for you, all three offer incredible opportunities to pursue scientific passions and work towards solving societal issues.

Here are some Cracking Med School Admissions Resources you will find helpful as you think about MD PhD programs:

• How To Shadow A Doctor
• Resume, CV, and Cover Letter Edits
• Premed Timeline: Planning For Medical School Applications

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us down below.

Questions? We're happy to help!

• Your Name *
• Your Email *
• Phone (optional)
• Leave us a Message or Question! We will email and call you back. *
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Start typing and press enter to search

Pros and Cons of the MD-PhD Degree

• By Lawrence Wang
• August 17, 2018
• Medical Student , Pre-med
• Clinical Rotations , Dual Degree , Research , Residency

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”                                  -Robert Frost

Do you have an interest/background in medicine and research , but balk at the prospect of spending eight years getting the MD-PhD degree? You can theoretically do all the same things (i.e. see patients and run a research lab) with only an MD degree. There are plenty of MD’s out there who are successful physician-scientists, and the MD-PhD  is certainly the less common path, the road less traveled. So why bother getting a PhD as well?

These are all great questions, worth a fair amount of thought and reflection. Pursuing the rewarding, competitive, and singular pathway of a combined MD-PhD degree is a major decision that warrants a critical evaluation of its associated pros and cons.  So without further ado, let’s dive right in.

Pros of the MD-PhD Degree

1 | fully funded.

Medical school is expensive, with the average medical student graduating in 2017 with a debt of nearly $200,000 . In contrast, many MD-PhD students graduate debt-free and may even have a small nest egg saved away. This is because Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTP) and many non-MSTP MD-PhD programs waive tuition and provide stipends to their students that are comparable to a biology graduate student stipend (~$30,000 of disposable income a year). The stipend is adjusted to match the cost of living in the city in which your school is located.

2 | Options for Fast-Tracking

MD-PhD’s enjoy specialized tracks that enable them to shorten their PhD and residency training. The PhD portion of the dual degree is an average of 4 years (vs. an average of 5-6 years for single degree PhD’s in the biomedical sciences).

Furthermore, MD-PhD graduates can “short-track” their residency into fellowship training. In the case of the three-year internal medicine residency, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) has a pathway that enables residents with a demonstrated potential for basic science or clinical research to spend only two years doing clinical training before returning to full-time research . These so-called “research residencies” are typically populated by MD-PhD’s, with a few MD-MPH/MD-MS/MD graduates that have strong research credentials thrown into the mix.

3 | Competitiveness for Funding to Start a Lab

According to an NIH report about physician-scientists , MD-PhD’s overall had higher award rates for research program grants (RPGs) (24.6%) than MD’s (21.7%, p<0.01) or PhD’s (21.4%, p<0.01). Furthermore, the award rate for MD-PhD’s from an MSTP program was nearly three times higher than that for MD/PhD’s not from an MSTP program (36.2% vs. 12.3%). If you are interested in more details, there is a wealth of outcomes data in this report as well as the  AAMC National MD-PhD Program Outcomes Study .

Cons of the MD-PhD Degree

1 | delayed autonomy.

The additional four years that an MD-PhD student invests in obtaining a PhD represent a significant opportunity cost (time and money). The ramifications of this can be broad. For example, an MD-PhD student living on a graduate student stipend may not have the financial autonomy to start a family until after they obtain an income (and free time!) commensurate to their training level. Furthermore, the average age of young investigators obtaining their first RPG’s continues to rise (44.3 years for MD-PhD’s, 43.8 years for MD’s, and 41.9 years for PhD’s in 2014) . The path of an academic researcher, especially an MD-PhD, creates an extreme delay in full professional autonomy.

2 | Disjointed Training

MD-PhDs are often likened to chimeras in their duality, which is exemplified by the disjointed path to obtaining the MD-PhD degree.

Students typically complete the first two pre-clinical years of medical school, transition to a 4-year PhD program, and then return to medical school to finish the last two clinical years before graduating with their dual degree. Subsequently, most pursue residency and fellowship training in their chosen medical specialties before finally becoming principal investigators (PIs) of a lab. This disjointed pathway forces many MD-PhD’s to play catch-up when they inevitably fall behind in either medicine or research. For instance, a common issue for MD-PhD’s is that their research skills become outdated when they return to clinical training for a number of years during the latter half of medical school and residency.

3| Balancing Clinical and Research Commitments

Juggling the considerable responsibilities of caring for patients and managing research projects can be challenging. Physician-scientists working at academic medical centers may be incentivized (or even pressured) to spend more time seeing patients, a task that earns more revenue for both the physician-scientist and the medical center. It also requires significant time and money for physician-scientists to maintain their clinical skills and board certifications. Consequently, many MD-PhD’s eventually dedicate themselves to either medicine or research and unfortunately let their less-used skill set fade into irrelevance.

Final Remarks

Any aspiring student considering a dual MD-PhD degree should think deeply and critically about whether this demanding career path is right for them. There are pros and cons to getting the MD-PhD degree, some of which may be deal-makers or deal-breakers. Ultimately, I see MD-PhD’s as chimeras walking a road less traveled, obtaining unique toolkits to address gaps in the existing body of medical knowledge and therapies. If this aligns with your goals, it can be an outstanding career!

If you are considering an MD-PhD degree but are unsure, please consider the Med School Insiders  general advising services . We have advisers who have completed this degree and can give you  detailed, real-world advice and feedback!

Lawrence Wang

6 Shocking Facts From the 2024 NRMP Match

Let’s dive into the results of the 2024 NRMP Residency Match. Did emergency medicine make a comeback, or is it still a declining specialty? Why are more DOs applying?

Medical School vs Residency Comparison

The transition from Medical School to Residency is often misunderstood. Learn about the key differences between med school and residency so that you can best prepare yourself for both types of training.

2024-2025 ERAS Residency Application Guide

Read our ERAS residency application guide, which covers the ideal application timeline, what you need to include, mistakes to avoid, and FAQs.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Join the Insider Newsletter

Receive regular exclusive MSI content, news, and updates! No spam. One-click unsubscribe.

Customer Note Premed Preclinical Med Student Clinical Med Student

You have Successfully Subscribed!

“M.D.” vs. “Ph.D.” vs. “Dr.”: Are They Synonyms?

Quick: when you hear the word doctor , what do you picture?

Most would probably describe someone in a white lab coat with a stethoscope hanging around their neck or someone in medical scrubs—someone you would seek out if you have a deep cut that needed stitches.

That word doctor , however, is a title assigned to many who don’t come close to that description, many of whom you wouldn’t want stitching up that cut. Take your English professor, for instance. No offense, Dr. Barrett. 

It can all be a bit confusing, which is why it’s important to know who and why someone might be called a doctor , as well as what all those initials and abbreviations after their name mean. Here we break it all down.

What does Dr. mean?

Let’s start with doctor or D r . for short. While the first definition of the word is “ a person licensed to practice medicine,” that doesn’t mean you want to take medical advice from anyone who calls themselves a doctor . There are many looser definitions of the word that follow and, frankly, make things a bit confusing.

For example, the third definition is older slang for a “cook, as at a camp or on a ship,” while the seventh entry is “an eminent scholar and teacher.” Bugs Bunny didn’t help matters either by plying anyone and everyone with his famous greeting,“What’s up, doc?” 

The term doctor can be traced back to the late 1200s, and it stems from a Latin word meaning “to teach.” It wasn’t used to describe a licensed medical practitioner until about 1400, and it wasn’t used as such with regularity until the late 1600s. It replaced the former word used for medical doctors— leech , which is now considered archaic. 

WATCH: When Did The Word "Doctor" Become Medical?

Physician vs. doctor : are these synonyms.

While the term physician is a synonym for doctor , it’s typically used to refer to those who practice general medicine rather than those who perform surgery, aka surgeons . 

A quack , on the other hand, is defined as “ a fraudulent or ignorant pretender to medical skill.”

What does M.D. mean?

Moving on to initials that carry more weight than a nod from Bugs, let’s look at M.D.s .

M.D. , which can be used with or without the periods ( M.D. or MD )  is the designation for a medical doctor. This is earned by attending medical school (typically a four-year program after completing at least one undergraduate degree, plus a residency program), and learning to diagnose patients’ symptoms and offer treatment. 

The initials M and D stem from the Latin title  Medicīnae Doctor. There are many different types of doctors, with different specialties, but if you have a physical ailment, visiting a doctor with the initials M.D. is a good place to start.

Specialty doctors may add even more initials to their title, such as DCN (doctor of clinical nutrition), DDS (doctor of dental surgery), or countless others they acquire with additional training. To make things even more confusing, some may add abbreviations from medical associations they belong to, such as FAAEM (Fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine). 

Go Behind The Words!

• By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy policies.
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

What does Ph.D. mean?

As for Ph.D. , this stands for “doctor of philosophy.” It stems from the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor.

You can get a Ph.D. in any number of subjects, from anthropology to mythological studies. It’s not an easy feat, however, as to earn one, you must do original research and write a dissertation . 

Ph.D. vs. M.D .: are these synonyms?

There are two big differences between Ph.D. s and M.D .s. When it comes to medicine, M.D.s can prescribe medications, and Ph.D.s can’t. And yes, it’s possible to be both an M.D. and a Ph.D. In fact, some med schools offer programs in which you can achieve both simultaneously. 

You can also get a professional doctorate degree in a number of fields. For example, you might receive a doctorate of education, an  Ed.D . 

So, in a nutshell, both M.D.s and Ph.Ds can be referred to as doctors . If you’re looking for someone to treat what ails you physically, then you want at least an M.D. following their name. If you want to dig deep into a subject and get advice from someone who has done their own research and who likely knows the latest and greatest developments in a particular area, then you’re probably looking for a Ph.D. And if someone has both, even better—depending on your needs, it may be just what the doctor ordered.

Want more synonyms? Get Thesaurus.com’s sizzling synonyms right in your inbox! 

Commonly Confused

Trending Words

Science & Technology

[ fur -kin ]

• October 11, 2023
• Education Advice

Ph.D. vs. Doctorate: What are the Differences?

UOTP Marketing

For those who have a deep-seated attitude, pursuing a doctoral degree can be a tough yet beneficial journey. Currently enrolled in a doctorate program means that a person has already scooched over college admissions, went through high stake tests and exams, and finished all those research papers and long hours spent in university libraries hitting the books. While studying for a doctorate entails asserting oneself to an extensive amount of quality time and money , its significance and purpose usually pave the way to a lucrative end.

After having finished the Master’s Degree , students begin to think about their next step in their academic career. Then, paradoxically, while navigating through academia, they find themselves baffled by the immense terms and terminologies used to label specific degrees. Because the terms “Doctorate” and “Ph.D.” are somehow interlocked and overlap, and because “PhD” is sometimes used inconsistently, it can lead to considerable confusion. Ph.D. vs. Doctorate? You might wonder what their difference is, and why they are important. E xplaining what each of these terms stands for, the difference between them, and why they are valuable, can help you steer yourself down the right path from the outset.

Doctorate Degree vs. Ph.D.

At first glance, it is pretty easy to confuse these two terms. But it is important for everyone to be able to make a distinction between the two. In this article, we will discuss the difference between Ph.D. and Doctorate in detail in order to get rid of any confusion you may have. In the academic world, the terms Doctorate and Ph.D. are currently used interchangeably. Both of them are the top cap of the ladder. However, a doctorate is mostly used as an umbrella term covering many fields ranging from professional degrees, humanities, and scientific disciplines.

A Ph.D. or Doctor of Philosophy, on the other hand, is a subcategory of a doctoral degree, it is much more distinct and clear-cut and is usually narrower in nature encompassing only humanities and scientific fields. In plain English, when someone says they are enrolling on a doctoral degree, it means they are doing a Ph.D. in a specific field. So, technically, in common parlance, there is no difference between the two terms.

But at the other end of the spectrum, one should be careful not to confuse a professional doctoral degree with a Ph.D. The former is more practical and is designed to prepare students to apply existing knowledge to find solutions to real-life problems and has a direct application to a particular profession.

A Ph.D. is theoretical by nature and is more academic and research-focused. it is often fixed on disseminating knowledge by conducting authentic research which means reviewing and identifying gaps in current literature and evaluating the relevance of existing and emerging theories within a particular field.

What Is a Ph.D. Degree and Why Should You Go for It?

Students who acquire a Ph.D. are justly proud — they wear it as a badge of identity in the academic elite. Traditionally, a Ph.D. was associated with teaching, which from Latin licentia docendi meant “license to teach”. However, the concept of Ph.D. has been on shifting sands nowadays and has become a more general term that isn’t necessarily confined to teaching only.

The Value of a PhD

Obtaining a Ph.D. helps you capitalize on the emerging academic opportunities making you more easily identifiable to employers or businesses seeking to fill professional, higher-level job positions. Many of these career options, conversely, are not available to those who do not belong to the Ph.D. club. While pursuing a Ph.D. requires devoting a tremendous effort and time and making significant personal sacrifices pushing the boundaries of knowledge, it’s all in service of the area of study you’re most passionate and zealous about. Ultimately, once you’ve attained your Ph.D., you will have achieved the pinnacle of education— something not too many people have or are able to accomplish.

FREE RESOURCE

A Guide to Choosing and Applying to Ph.D. Programs

Learn everything you need to know about selecting and applying to Ph.D. programs. Learn tips and tricks for a successful application and find your ideal program today!

What Is a Doctorate Degree?

A doctoral or doctorate degree is usually the most advanced degree one can earn in an academic discipline. Many pursue a doctorate degree to increase their professional credibility, be acknowledged as an expert in a specific field, and improve their resume.

A doctorate degree is a graduate-level credential that is usually earned after multiple years of graduate school. Earning a doctoral degree requires a significant level of research and work. In order to get this degree, one has to research a subject thoroughly, conduct new research and analysis, and provide a solution or interpretation into the field. But what types of doctoral degrees are available?

Types of Doctorate Degrees

There are two categories of doctorate degrees: an academic degree and a professional doctorate degree. An academic degree focuses on research, data analysis, and the evaluation of theory. A professional doctorate degree, on the other hand, is considered a terminal degree, which means that one has achieved the most advanced degree in the field. This degree is specifically designed for working professionals who want to grow in their careers.

Professional Doctorate Degrees

A professional doctorate is designed for working professionals who have experience in the field and want to increase their knowledge, improve their credibility, and advance their careers. This degree focuses on applying research to practical issues, coming up with interpretation and solutions, as well as designing effective professional practices within a particular field.

Professional doctoral degrees include:

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

The DBA degree is ideal for students who already have a general business background and are interested in delving deeper into the practical and theoretical aspects that underpin business education. More to the point, in DBA you will develop the ability to solve real-life problems, discover the relevant expertise to innovate and uphold complex business issues and so much more. Upon completion, DBA students will possess enhanced leadership and strategic skills as well as the tools to propel their careers in today’s marketplace. The Business Administration industry is keen on finding such graduates with business skills and this is indicated by the immense job positions currently available.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

If you are interested in setting your eyes on creating lifelong learning among your students, making a positive influence in educational culture, contributing to the growing body of research in the education realm , or just enhancing your subject matter expertise, the Doctor of Education program ticks all the boxes. This degree maintains a rigorous approach in academic education that prepares graduates to showcase the skills and expertise to devise solutions in tackling the challenges in contemporary education practice and become transformational leaders in the industry.

Doctor of Computer Science (DCS)

The demand for computer scientists has reached its peak and it is among the most sought-after positions nowadays. With a degree in DCS, you will have the opportunity to design, apply innovative experiments, predict trends and, ultimately, develop a richer understanding and contribute to your area of expertise. After all, who doesn’t want an exciting and financially stable career?

Interested in pursuing a degree?

Fill out the form and get all admission information you need regarding your chosen program.

This will only take a moment.

Message Received!

Thank you for reaching out to us. we will review your message and get right back to you within 24 hours. if there is an urgent matter and you need to speak to someone immediately you can call at the following phone number:.

By clicking the Send me more information button above, I represent that I am 18+ years of age, that I have read and agreed to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy , and agree to receive email marketing and phone calls from UOTP. I understand that my consent is not required to apply for online degree enrollment. To speak with a representative without providing consent, please call +1 (202) 274-2300

• We value your privacy.

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

The Doctor of Medicine degree is designed to prepare you for various medical challenges in different settings nationally and internationally. This program will further develop your critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills required for safe, high-quality medical practices. It will also improve your leadership, communication, and teamwork skills for collaborative patient care.

Doctor of Optometry (O.D.)

This professional degree typically requires four years of study. It focuses on basic biological sciences such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, neuroanatomy, and so on. This doctoral degree will prepare, educate, and train professionals to practice at the highest level of proficiency, professionalism, and integrity.

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

The Doctoral of Psychology degree concentrates on the clinical and applied aspects of psychology. This type of doctorate prepares students for professional practice and clinical placement. This degree will be highly beneficial when working directly with patients who need psychology services. In addition, this degree allows doctors of psychology to confidently function as researchers and clinicians.

How to Choose a Ph.D. Program?

Choosing a Ph.D. program can be pretty challenging; it is a big academic decision and investment that requires commitment and perseverance. But how can you pick the right Ph.D. program for you? Well, there are some tips to help you choose the best fit for your goals and preferences:

• Think about the reasons why you want a Ph.D., what you expect to gain from it, and whether it is compatible with your professional goals.
• Consider your research environment.
• Take your time to research, compare, and consider multiple opportunities carefully.
• Pick a subject that interests and motivates you but is also practical.
• Ask your professors and other scholars in the field for advice.

All in all, the terms “Doctorate’’ and “Ph.D.” are in essence the same, which means all Ph.D. students are Doctoral students as well. On the other hand, earning a Ph.D. degree is no joke. If anything, Ph.D. students have the tenacity, patience, persistence, and years of hard work that you can vouch for. Ultimately, deciding what type of doctoral degree you should hop on, depends on your career goals, what you are passionate about and how you are going to achieve it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a doctorate and a ph.d..

In academic contexts, the terms “Doctorate” and “Ph.D.” are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinction. A Doctorate is an umbrella term covering a wide range of fields, including professional degrees, humanities, and scientific disciplines. A Ph.D., or Doctor of Philosophy, is a specific type of doctoral degree, typically focused on research and academic pursuits in the humanities and scientific fields.

Why should I pursue a Ph.D.?

Pursuing a Ph.D. can be a valuable endeavor, as it opens up academic and research opportunities, enhances your expertise in a specific field, and makes you more attractive to employers seeking candidates for high-level positions. It’s a chance to push the boundaries of knowledge and become an expert in your chosen study area.

What are the benefits of a professional doctorate?

Professional doctorate degrees, such as Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), are designed for working professionals who want to apply research to practical issues in their field. These degrees can enhance your career prospects, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities within your profession.

How do I choose the right Ph.D. program?

To choose the right Ph.D. program, consider your career goals, research environment, and personal interests. Take your time to research and compare programs, seek advice from professors and experts in your field, and ensure that the program aligns with your professional aspirations.

What are the main differences between academic and professional doctorate degrees?

Academic doctorate degrees focus on research, theory evaluation, and data analysis, often leading to careers in academia or research. Professional doctorate degrees are more practical, designed for working professionals, and concentrate on applying research to real-world problems within a specific field.

Can I earn a Ph.D. in any field?

Ph.D. programs are available in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and more. However, the specific availability of Ph.D. programs may vary by field and university.

Is a Ph.D. a challenging journey?

Yes, pursuing a Ph.D. can be a challenging journey that requires dedication, patience, and years of hard work. It involves conducting original research, writing a dissertation, and often teaching or assisting in courses. It’s a significant commitment, but it can be highly rewarding.

What are the potential career opportunities after earning a Ph.D.?

With a Ph.D., you can pursue careers in academia as a professor or researcher, work in research and development roles in various industries, or take on leadership positions in organizations. The specific career path will depend on your field of study and personal interests.

Share it with your friends!

Explore more.

Accounting vs. Finance Degree: Which Major to Choose?

12 Important Bookkeeping Skills You Need for a Successful Career

Recent resources.

What Can You Do With a Hospitality Management Degree? Best Hospitality Careers

What Can You Do with an International Studies Degree [2024]

9 Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Associate’s vs. Bachelor’s: Which One To Choose?

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?

Chat with an Admissions Officer Now!

• Associates Degree
• Bachelors Degrees
• Masters Degrees
• Doctoral Degrees
• Faculty & Staff
• Accreditation
• Student Experience

QUICK LINKS

• Admission Requirements
• Military Students
• Financial Aid

MD vs. MD PhD [Which Is Better For You?]

Learn how to study twice as fast with our free studying course.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may get a commission if you make a purchase through my link at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Are you still contemplating: MD vs. MD PhD ? Through this article, I’ll help you understand the difference between the two so you can decide which one suits you the most.

If you’re ready to proceed, let’s start diving deeper into the differences between an MD and PhD !

[Free Download]   Want to have everything you need to be a top student on your medical journey? Get FREE access to our Med School Success Handbook to get 60+ tips including the best study, time management, mindset tips you need to be a top student. Download it here. 

Table Of Contents

What Is An MD?

People who aspire to become a physician can pursue a Doctor of Medicine or MD degree, and they are highly responsible for examining, diagnosing, and treating patients while following correct protocols. An MD undergoes practical training, chooses medical specialization, and gains experience in the field .

MD students attended allopathic medical school and had to pass the USMLE or the United States Medical Licensing Examination . A designed USMLE assesses a student’s medical competency and it consists of three levels.

There are numerous types of medical doctors, and their title varies depending on their area of specialization . Successful MD students are more likely to enter clinical environments.

What Is An MD PhD?

An MD PhD is a dual doctoral degree known as a Doctor of Medicine and Philosophy . They have a different curriculum than MDs, where they are more hands-on in researching and discovering new knowledge . 

A career with an MD PhD, a combination of physician-scientist , allows you to solve a patient’s medical issues through extensive research . The program’s approach highly influences the students’ path, making them more likely to enter academic environments.

MD vs. MD PhD: Education

MDs have to complete a 4-year curriculum before applying to medical schools . 

• Often, the first two years are for pre-clinical focusing on core foundations .
• It is followed by another year for training in similar specialties , such as Internal Medicine, OBGYN, Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and many more.
• An internship would be the last hurdle.

To receive the degree, MD students must prove their knowledge through skills application during an internship and residency , allowing them to experience the job first-hand and learn from professional doctors. Other than that, a licensure exam is a must for this degree before they can practice independently.

Want Results Like This?

Download The Free Med School Success Handbook For The Best Step-By-Step Tips For Your Medical Journey!

An MD PhD’s curriculum generally takes more years to finish than an MD’s. This program might take at least seven years, and it will supposedly be composed of the following:

• It starts with classroom-based classes .
• Then, the following is a few more years in graduate school for a PhD thesis . One should complete research and defend it from a panel. It can be about biomedical sciences, engineering, and other disciplines such as health policy, epidemiology, public health, chemistry, and so on.
• Then they’re back for clinical rotations .
• And finally, residency training is needed before getting a license.

As of 2022, the average yearly medical school tuition fees for MD students range from $37,000 to $62,000 . In comparison, it’s easier for your budget to take MD PhD programs since several offered scholarships and stipends exist that you can use as financial support for the whole duration of your career training.

MD vs. MD PhD: Career And Salary

MDs can pursue a research career, and an MD PhD can pursue a clinical career. However, one can’t deny that MDs are more suitable to pursue careers in the hands-on medical field , while PhDs would fit research-heavy careers more .

For both MD and MD PhD, depending on what interests you, you can work in clinical research, health services research, or laboratory science research, and you can also teach introductory courses, supervise student research, and teach physician assistants. 

If you pursue an MD degree you might end up in hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices. Here are some of the job options and their respective average annual salary:

Anesthetists 

They are responsible for providing anesthesia to patients before the operation proceeds. They can earn an average salary of $331,937.

Cardiologists 

Cardiologists assess, diagnose, and treat patients with heart diseases, and they can earn an average salary of $351,827.

Clinical Radiologist

They are trained professionals who can read and interpret medical images to assess possible diseases and diagnose patients. They can earn an average salary of $437,590.

General Practice Doctor

General Practice Doctors or General practitioners’, their role is to provide medical treatment to patients with typical medical conditions. They can earn an average salary of $219,090.

Hospital Doctors

Their work involves interacting with patients, specializing in various medical areas, and treating medical conditions, and they can earn an average salary of $260,000.

Neurologists

They are trained professionals who diagnose and treat diseases that affect the brain and nervous system. They can earn an average salary of $270,900.

Ophthalmologists 

Specialize in eye care; they can handle treatment, surgery, and prescription for eye problems. They can earn an average salary of $311,471.

Pathologists

Pathologists partners up with different healthcare providers to diagnose a patient. They study body tissues and fluids and can earn an average salary of $200,890.

Psychiatrists

A psychiatrist specializing in assessing and treating mental health problems can earn an average salary of $224,247.

Surgeons 

They are responsible for performing operations on patients, administering postoperative care,  and are considered surgical team leaders. They can earn an average salary of $415,692.

Meanwhile, if you pursue an MD PhD degree, then the following are where you can end up:

Academic Medical Centers

You’ll mostly be doing research and can go to various departments in academic medicine, such as Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Pathology, Neurology, Surgery, Psychiatry, Ophthalmology, and many more. You are also eligible to become a faculty member in academic schools.

Government and Private Research Institutes

In these institutes, you’ll again spend more time applying your knowledge concerning health and diseases to do independent or group research.

Private practices

Compared to MDs, MD PhDs earn less. The salary depends on the job and the institute one gets in, but you can expect an average annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $115,000.

MD vs. MD PhD: Which Is Better For You?

If you have a specific career you’ve set your mind on, it’ll be easier to know which degree you’ll take. But if you can’t think of a particular job that resonates with you, it’ll be harder to decide and would most likely waste more of your time and brain power.

Fortunately, several helpful pieces of advice can help in organizing your thoughts. For a better understanding, the following are a few tips you can try to know whether MD or MD PhD suits you :

• You can start by assessing your primary interest . Having an initial fascination with something specific allows you to narrow down your considerations.
• Know and understand where your interests lay, what motivates you, and what your passions are . Also, understand what matters more for you and what aligns with your ideal future.  Are you interested in mainly diagnosing and treating patients ? Or are you interested in r esearching and finding cures for a specific disease ? Find out which one weighs more for you.
• Gain experience in the field you are eyeing . Prior experiences before deciding between the two degrees would help you understand whether that field is where you see yourself working more or if it fits you.  Only when you experience something will you truly realize what sparks your interests and whether you can last long in that area of expertise.
• Not everyone can afford medical school tuition fees ; if you’re one of those also highly considering that, it’ll affect your decision-making, too. Carefully consider whether having tuition debt is alright or if you prefer those that offer tuition and stipend assistance.
• Consider where and how you want to work, then do your research, and compare your wants and needs to how MD or an MD PhD careers work. The career’s work environment differs; for example, an MD allows you to associate with patients, have long shifts, and rarely have standard schedules , while an MD PhD might spend more time working independently on research .

Here is a quick recall of the differences between MD vs. MD PhD:

Hopefully, you have found this article about MD vs. MD PhD helpful enough. Now, you can take your time deciphering all the pieces of information given in this article and adequately decide between the two.

If you think that you need more valuable information about this topic, check out the links below for more awesome and valuable content:

• Should I Go To Medical School? [How To Know If It’s Right For Me]
• Hardest Medical School To Get Into [Full Breakdown]
• Why Do You Want To Be A Doctor [How To Answer]
• Having A Job In Medical School [Is It Possible?]
• 30 Best Med School Youtube Channels (Must Follow)
• Morning Routine As A Cardiology Fellow
• 10 Highest-Paying Healthcare Jobs That Don’t Require Med School
• What’s It Like At Johns Hopkins Medical School?

Until the next one my friend…

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is supported by our participation in affiliate programs. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. With this said, our opinions are always our own and we do not recommend products we do not like.

© 2020 All rights Reserved. Design by TheMDJourney

Get Access To Our FREE Library Of Video Courses, Books, And Strategies To Help Increase your Grades, Productivity, and confidence on your medical journey ASAP!

• UNC Chapel Hill

Department of Pediatrics

Corinne keet, md, phd.

Professor of Pediatrics

Vice Chair of Clinical and Translational Research

Associate Director of Children's Research Institute

Co-Director of Carolina Child Health Scholars

Contact Information

• UNC Children's Profile
• Publications
• Carolina Child Health Scholars

Dr. Corinne Keet is a specialist in the field of allergy and immunology. She routinely provides clinical care through the Pediatric Allergy Clinic and as an Attending Physician on the Allergy/Immunology inpatient consult at UNC Children’s. She is also the Associate Editor for Food Allergy at the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, the leading journal in the field.

Dr. Keet’s NIH-sponsored research is focused on the prevention, management, and long-term outcomes of pediatric allergies. Specifically, her research aims to identify environmental factors which contribute to food allergy, atopic dermatitis, and asthma and find practical solutions to prevent and treat these diseases. Her research initiatives have included:

• Investigating environmental risk factors, biomarkers and mechanisms of early life food allergy and atopic dermatitis in a large multi-center birth cohort and in large national surveys.
• Better understanding which infants are most at risk for peanut allergy and which tests best identify those with allergy.
• Evaluating how a housing intervention affects asthma activity in children who live in poor urban neighborhoods.
• Understanding the relationship between food sensitization and cardiovascular disease.
• Testing novel treatments for food allergy.

Undergraduate

University of California at Berkeley

Medical School

University of California at San Francisco

Residency in Pediatrics

Johns Hopkins Hospital

Fellowship in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

Doctor of Philosophy

Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

There’s a powerful story behind every headline at Ohio State Health & Discovery. As one of the largest academic health centers and health sciences campuses in the nation, we are uniquely positioned with renowned experts covering all aspects of health, wellness, science, research and education. Ohio State Health & Discovery brings this expertise together to deliver today’s most important health news and the deeper story behind the most powerful topics that affect the health of people, animals, society and the world.  Like the science and discovery news you find here? You can support more innovations fueling advances across medicine, science, health and wellness by giving today.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

• The Ohio State University
• College of Dentistry
• College of Medicine
• College of Nursing
• College of Optometry
• College of Pharmacy
• College of Public Health
• College of Veterinary Medicine
• Ohio State Wexner Medical Center
• Ohio State's Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute

Subscribe. The latest from Ohio State Health & Discovery delivered right to your inbox.

Skull reconstruction restores ‘normal life’ to patients after head traumas

Patients travel from afar for the life-restoring cranioplasty skills of Kerry-Ann Mitchell, MD, PhD, one of the few surgeons in the field of neuroplastic surgery.

Senior Writer Ohio State Wexner Medical Center

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Linkedin
• Share via Email
• Share this page

Silver strands of hair fall to the floor in a pile as Kerry-Ann Mitchell, MD, PhD , moves the clippers across Vicki Rich’s head.

Emergency stroke treatment saved Vicki’s life but left her without the right side of her skull, creating an unsightly and painful indentation on the side of her head.

Dr. Mitchell, one of the few neuroplastic surgeons in the United States, specializes in rebuilding the delicate anatomy of damaged skulls like Vicki’s.

She makes an incision along the skull allowing her to insert a precisely shaped clear, synthetic implant to fit the space of the missing bone.

“I use a lot of synthetic materials simply because the bone isn’t available by the time patients are referred to me. They’re long past where their bone has been infected and discarded,” says Dr. Mitchell, assistant professor of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine .

Once the implant is in place, Dr. Mitchell weaves careful, meticulous sutures along Vicki’s scalp.

This surgery, known as a cranioplasty, corrects the shape of the skull and lasts between two to four hours.

The effects are life-changing for patients.

During an office appointment that follows her November surgery, Vicki is on the verge of crying as she throws her arms around Dr. Mitchell.

“Thank God for bringing you into my life,” Vicki says.

Filling a growing need for patients suffering neuro traumas

The specialty of neuroplastic surgery marries neurosurgery with plastic surgery to restore the appearance and function of patients who have survived invasive operations and treatments from conditions including brain cancer , traumatic brain injuries  or strokes.

"There’s only five neuroplastic programs in the entire country, and only three of those treat civilian populations,” Dr. Mitchell says. “We have developed expertise for particularly complex patients.”

These surgeries help patients get back to normal, restore their dignity and improve their self-esteem.

“Plastic surgeons are the quarterbacks of care for many patients with complex surgical problems,” says Amy Moore, MD , the Robert L. Ruberg MD Alumni Chair of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

“We work alongside other surgical teams to provide innovative strategies for improved outcomes for patients,” says Dr. Moore.

Neuroplastic surgeons hone their skills completing skull and microvascular reconstructions and scalp grafts.

“Together with the neurosurgeons, we’re able to provide specialized care for patients with complex neurosurgical needs. We allow the neurosurgeons to do their expert work while we take care of the skull’s bony framework and soft tissue. Everyone wins here — the patients and the surgeons,” Dr. Moore says.

Finding a calling in neuroplastic surgery

Nearly 24 years ago, Dr. Mitchell came to the United States from Jamaica with $300 in her pocket.

“I was 17 years old on an academic scholarship in a new country where I knew no one,” she says.

She worked her way through school earning both a medical degree from Stanford University and a PhD in neuroscience from the University of Utah.

“I vividly remember the case that made me want to become a plastic surgeon,” she says.

Cancer that covered the face of an elderly patient had left him disfigured.

She remembers looking at the patient and asking the reconstructive plastic surgeon, “Why are we doing this major, high-risk operation instead of allowing him to go home and be with his family during this time?”

“He told me, ‘Because not only can this patient go home and be with his family, but he can also have a face. Even if he only has six months or a year to live, he probably wants to have a face while he’s alive,’” she recalls.

That’s when it clicked.

“That’s what I want to do,” she says. “Regardless of a patient’s disease or diagnosis, I want to help make their quality of life better.”

She went on to complete a neuroplastic surgery fellowship at Johns Hopkins University.

It was nearly four years ago that Dr. Mitchell interviewed for a plastic surgery position at Ohio State.

Dr. Moore calls it fate.

“We started talking about her research, and I could see her passion. I asked her, ‘OK, would you want to build that here?’” Dr. Moore says.

Now the neuroplastic surgery program is expanding, including the addition of another surgeon.

“It’s very gratifying,” Dr. Mitchell says. “You get to help patients move on after they’ve had their tumors or their trauma. I’ve come full circle.”

Why patients go without reconstructive surgery

Cranioplasties in general are risky procedures where one in three surgeries fail.

Dr. Mitchell has a better success rate.

“In our hands, looking back on our data since we established the program at Ohio State, it’s less than 1 in 10 where we have to re-operate on a patient,” she says.

Patients from all over the United States and world with complex skull deformities, and often multiple previous cranioplasty attempts, are referred to Ohio State.

Some of Dr. Mitchell’s patients come to her having gone years without skull reconstruction surgery.

The reason?

“Unless you have a specialist like Dr. Mitchell who can do what she can do, you start getting into a greater risk of worse outcomes for the patient,” says Patrick Youssef, MD , a vascular neurosurgeon and assistant professor of Neurological Surgery. “She uses not just the basics of surgical techniques, but the intricacies of plastic surgical techniques to allow us to continue on from where we would previously stop.”

Dr. Mitchell hopes these types of skull reconstructions become an expected standard of care as the specialty grows, similar to breast reconstruction .

“Women who get mastectomies for breast cancer are able to return to their normal quality of life after reconstructive surgery,” she says. “They’re wearing their swimsuits and hanging out at the beach with their friends. That’s the standard of care that we have today.”

Finding ways to improve patient outcomes through research

When a piece of the skull is missing, the brain collapses against itself because there’s no structure to cradle it in place.

“We reconstruct it. You don’t make it contour to the brain. You make it round and then the brain expands to fill whatever you put there,” Dr. Mitchell says.

For reasons that are still unclear, there are sometimes wonderful, unexpected improvements in brain function after skull reconstruction.

Patients may be able to re-use their limbs. In some cases, speech returns.

It’s not something Dr. Mitchell can promise patients, though.

“We need more research. Right now, we don’t have the data to be able to say that,” she says.

Dr. Mitchell is creating a patient registry that will track outcomes years after surgeries.

Her lab collaborates with others at Ohio State to study how cranioplasty techniques can be improved, focusing on re-using the patient’s own bone, lowering infection rates and helping patients heal faster.

In many cases, the skull pieces can be frozen and saved after they are removed while a patient heals from initial surgery. Her research explores ways to re-vascularize the bone or build out scaffolding to better support the bone.

'Perfect to me’

Vicki, from Wooster, in northeast Ohio, is thankful for the neuroplastic surgery program.

“It makes me so happy. I can’t even explain it,” she says.

Vicki’s life was initially saved thanks to Ohio State’s telestroke program, connecting rural patients to emergency stroke care.

Learn about Ohio State’s telestroke program

Vicki underwent three surgeries related to her stroke, beginning with emergency stroke surgery with Dr. Youssef.

When her skull bone was initially replaced after her stroke surgery, Vicki developed an infection. It meant her natural skull bone had to be discarded.

“It’s a very emotional thing, but after I had the first surgery, I felt like I lost everything, all the gains that I had made,” Vicki says. “I later learned that was normal.”

She couldn’t walk without assistance. Her short-term memory was strongly affected.

“I didn’t feel like I was me at all,” Vicki says.

But after her cranioplasty with Dr. Mitchell, she started improving.

"The first thing I did was just run my hand through and see if I could feel between my skull and the implant. Is there a dip or anything?” Vicki says.

“It looks and feels perfect to me.”

About six weeks after her last surgery, Vicki continues to make gains.

• Brain Cancer ,
• Cranioplasty ,
• Neuroplastic Surgery ,
• Neurosurgery ,
• Ohio State Wexner Medical Center ,
• Plastic Surgery ,
• Skull Reconstruction ,
• Skull Surgeon ,
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Discovery & Innovation
• Treatment Advances

Related websites

Articles on discovery & innovation.

Leading the next generation of robotic surgery technology

By Beth Harvilla

Ohio State surgeons instrumental in getting FDA approval for the latest da Vinci 5 robot, now among the first to use it in surgery

Life-changing gene therapy expanding beyond neurological conditions

By JoAnne Viviano

Learn how Ohio State’s Gene Therapy Institute is changing lives and turning hopes into reality through innovative research and treatments.

How gene therapy changed everything for child born with AADC deficiency

Why join a clinical trial.

By John L Hays, MD, PhD

New ultra-high-frequency ultrasound improves lymphedema treatment

By Roman Skoracki, MD

Get articles and stories about health, wellness, medicine, science and education delivered right to your inbox from the experts at Ohio State.

Required fields

Tell us more about yourself

By clicking "Subscribe" you agree to our Terms of Use . Learn more about how we use your information by reading our Privacy Policy .

• Social Media

UCI School of Medicine Recognizes Middle Eastern and North African Heritage Month: Mehdi Abouzari, MD, PhD

In our present moment, new histories are being written through the passionate and innovative care that our colleagues bring to work everyday. It is our honor and privilege to work alongside these men and women and countless others throughout our school – true champions of diversity, equity and inclusion who are leaving an indelible mark on the future of our campus and their respective fields of medicine.

Mehdi Abouzari , MD, PhD, assistant professor and Wellness Officer in the Department of Otolaryngology, has been recognized by colleagues for his mentorship of diverse individuals across the medical education continuum, including undergraduates, medical students, residents, postdoctoral fellows, research coordinators and junior specialists.

“Mentoring is my passion and by championing the diversity of my mentees, my goal is to reduce inequities and inequalities that they face throughout their career,” says Dr. Abouzari.

Dr. Abouzari has dedicated extensive research and practice in pursuit of gender equity in the field of otolaryngology. In 2023, Dr. Abouzari and several colleagues from UCI’s Department of Otolaryngology published an article in Head & Neck that analyzed gender disparities in female authorship and citation among the 100 most-cited articles in the field of head and neck surgery. In addition, he has actively diversified his research team, demonstrating a commitment to working with immigrants who speak English as a second language, as well as female students from medical schools without a home otolaryngology program. These efforts were recognized in 2020 when the UCI Graduate Division awarded Dr. Abouzari the Tom Angell Fellowship Award.

When asked about the impact of his Iranian American identity on his work, he stated, “I have personally experienced how being a minority in terms of language, race and cultural background can impact you by making you feel different with a touch of isolation at times. Trying to fit into the new academic and professional environment required me to enhance my confidence, strengthen my skills and learn to communicate in a professional language that was much different from what I had been accustomed to.”

Back to the main feature

Media Contacts

Matt Miller Director, Communications and Public Relations [email protected]

Michelle Strombeck Manager, Communications and Public Relations 312-498-8208 [email protected]

Related Faculty/Staff

Assistant Professor, Surgery

Assistant Professor, Otolaryngology

• Education Home
• Medical Education Technology Support
• Graduate Medical Education
• Medical Scientist Training Program
• Public Health Sciences Program
• Continuing Medical Education
• Clinical Performance Education Center
• Center for Excellence in Education
• Research Home
• Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cell Biology
• Microbiology, Immunology, & Cancer Biology (MIC)
• Molecular Physiology & Biological Physics
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Public Health Sciences
• Office for Research
• Clinical Research
• Clinical Trials Office
• Funding Opportunities
• Grants & Contracts
• Research Faculty Directory
• Cancer Center
• Cardiovascular Research Center
• Carter Immunology Center
• Center for Behavioral Health & Technology
• Center for Brain Immunology & Glia
• Center for Diabetes Technology
• Center for Immunity, Inflammation & Regenerative Medicine
• Center for Public Health Genomics
• Center for Membrane & Cell Physiology
• Center for Research in Reproduction
• Myles H. Thaler Center for AIDS & Human Retrovirus Research
• Child Health Research Center (Pediatrics)
• Division of Perceptual Studies
• Research News: The Making of Medicine
• Core Facilities
• Virginia Research Resources Consortium
• Center for Advanced Vision Science
• Charles O. Strickler Transplant Center
• Keck Center for Cellular Imaging
• Institute of Law, Psychiatry & Public Policy
• Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia
• Clinical Home
• Anesthesiology
• Dermatology
• Emergency Medicine
• Family Medicine
• Neurosurgery
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Otolaryngology
• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
• Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial, & Oral Health
• Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences
• Radiation Oncology
• Radiology & Medical Imaging
• UVA Health: Patient Care
• Diversity Home
• Diversity Overview
• Student Resources
• GME Trainee Resources
• Faculty Resources
• Community Resources

Craig Kent, MD, and Lian-Wang Guo, PhD, Target Prevention of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

April 24, 2024 by [email protected]

Craig Kent, MD (left), Lian-Wang Guo, PhD

A new $2.7 million grant from the National Institutes of Health will support research led by Craig Kent, MD, and Lian-Wang Guo, PhD, in their efforts to tackle the prevention of abdominal aortic aneurysms — a potentially fatal condition affecting the body’s largest blood vessels.

Researchers Craig Kent, MD, chief executive officer of UVA Health, executive vice president for health affairs, and professor of surgery, and Lian-Wang Guo, PhD, professor of surgery, have partnered with Shaoqin Gong, PhD, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to investigate novel therapeutic approaches for treating this disease.

The team has pinpointed PERK, a signaling protein central to the cellular stress response, as a potential target for intervention against aortic aneurysms. Aberrant activation of PERK has been implicated in the progression of this condition. To counteract this, the team aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the development of aneurysms, and devise a precise drug delivery system so that treatments can be delivered to the aneurysm site.

Their innovative approach involves the development of injectable, bio-camouflaged nanoclusters, likened to a cluster bomb. “Detonated” at the disease site, these nanoclusters disperse smaller drug-loaded nanoparticles, facilitating efficient penetration into the aneurysmal tissue. This precision-targeting strategy holds potential for minimizing systemic side effects, while maximizing therapeutic efficacy of aneurysm treatments — a significant advancement in the pursuit of the first safe and effective medicinal treatment for this disease.

Additional researchers who played a major part in developing this project include Bowen Wang, PhD, a co-investigator at Northwestern University; Nisakorn Yodsanit, PhD, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison; and Takuro Shirasu, MD, PhD, and Yitao Huang, PhD, at the University of Virginia.

Collaborators on the project include Jianjie Ma, PhD, Chengli Shen, MD, PhD, Gary Owens, PhD, and Mete Civelek, PhD, at the University of Virginia and Morgan Salmon, PhD, at the University of Michigan.

A provisional patent application has been made possible and filed by the UVA Licensing & Ventures Group.

Filed Under: Research

• Submit News/Event
• Subscribe to News
• Call for Nominations
• Dean's Message
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Honors & Awards
• Media Highlights
• Philanthropy