MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program Program
Training Tomorrow's Physician-Scientists
Through the MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program at Penn State College of Medicine, you’ll gain the tools and training you need to become a successful physician-scientist.
You’ll experience the breadth of clinical science while designing experiments and conducting biomedical research with modern technology.
The program, typically completed in eight years, will prepare you for a successful career in medical research, academic medicine, or a related field.
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Find out more Apply todayAbout the Program
Curriculum
The MD/PhD program integrates medical and graduate education, providing flexibility for students to design a tailor-made educational experience.
Students take several graduate courses during the first two years of medical school, and participate in ongoing patient experiences through the Clinical Exposure Program in the research portion of their training.
Throughout the program, students are exposed to topics in clinical, basic and translational research. Learn more about the MD/PhD curriculum.
Graduate Programs
We offer graduate studies in several programs:
What's New in the MD/PhD Program
Why Choose Penn State?
Supported by NIH and Penn State
The Penn State College of Medicine Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is supported by a highly competitive T32 MSTP Training Award from the National Institutes of Health in recognition of our outstanding MD/PhD training program. The College of Medicine and Penn State are committed to supporting our MSTP and provide additional funding to support our students. This funding includes full tuition, a competitive stipend and health benefits for matriculating students (and eligible dependents) for their entire MD/PhD training career.
Leading the Way in Personalized Medicine
Penn State College of Medicine is home to one of the first personalized medicine centers in the country.
As an MD/PhD student, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct research through the Institute of Personalized Medicine, which provides scientists with the resources they need to develop treatments tailored to the individual.
Translating Research Findings into New Health Benefits
The Penn State Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI) is an independent, multidisciplinary academic engine for clinical and translational science.
The ultimate goal of CTSI is to develop, implement and make available new ways to predict, prevent, and treat human disease.
Applying to the Medical Scientist Training Program
In addition to the standard requirements for admission to the MD Program, we consider applicants who have:
- Outstanding grades and MCAT scores
- Sustained interest and experience in research
- Strong letters of support
We take a holistic approach in reviewing applications, considering all aspects of a prospective student’s background.
International Students
Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States at the time of application. Foreign nationals, regardless of visa status, are currently ineligible for admission.
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Important Dates- AMCAS application deadline is Nov. 15
- Secondary applications must be completed by Dec. 15
More About Penn State College of Medicine
Student Resources
Penn State College of Medicine strives to create the best culture of respect and inclusion for our students. A number of programs, services and facilities are available.
Campus Life
Student Housing
Penn State College of Medicine offers housing in its University Manor East or University Manor West apartments to full-time students, residents, postdoctoral scholars and visiting scholars.
Life in Hershey, PA
Penn State College of Medicine's primary campus is located in Hershey, Pa. The area provides numerous diverse and delicious dining experiences, sports, concerts and entertainment, and is a short drive away from the Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, metro areas.