Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) – Doctor of Medicine / Doctor of Philosophy (MD/PhD)
Duration: 8 Year(s)
UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine
Irvine, California, USA
Course TypeIntegrated (Dual Degree)
Course Specialty
Health Sciences
Affiliation
University of California (UCI) - Irvine
Overview
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Dual Degree Program at UC Irvine School of Medicine is offered through the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) and is designed to develop physician-scientists who can bridge clinical medicine and advanced biomedical research. The program integrates rigorous medical education with intensive research training, allowing students to pursue a PhD in diverse disciplines such as biomedical sciences, neuroscience, engineering, or public health. Students typically begin with foundational medical training, transition into full-time PhD research, and later return to complete clinical rotations. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, scientific investigation, and translational research aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academic medicine, research institutions, and leadership roles in healthcare innovation, contributing to advancements in medical science and patient care.
Admission Intake
JanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
Fee (INR):
-
Stipend (INR):
Students receive a stipend along with full tuition and fees coverage as part of the fellowship support provided by the program
Accomodation:
At Your Own
Scholarship:
-
Eligibility
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree completed before enrollment
- Strong academic background with pre-medical science coursework
- Valid MCAT score required for MD admission
- Significant research experience (highly important for MD/PhD applicants)
- Demonstrated interest in biomedical research and physician-scientist career
- Applicants should not already hold an MD or PhD degree
- Must meet admission standards of both MD program and PhD (Graduate Division)
- Note: Some MSTP programs have restrictions for international applicants
Minimum Education
Bachelor Degree
Admission Process:
Step 1: Apply through AMCAS selecting MD/PhD (MSTP) track
Step 2: Submit secondary application to UC Irvine School of Medicine
Step 3: Provide required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- MCAT scores
- Research experience details
- Letters of recommendation
Step 4: Applications reviewed by both MD Admissions Committee and MSTP Committee
Step 5: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews (research + clinical focus)
Step 6: Final selection requires approval from both MD and MSTP committees
Step 7: If not selected for MD/PhD, applicant may still be considered for MD-only program
