Prospective D.O. Ph.D. Program candidates are sought nationally as well as in-State. Special effort is directed toward the recruitment of women and ethnic minorities. Qualified students interested in a career in medical and basic science research should contact the D.O.- Ph.D. Program office as early as possible. From among the prospects who express an interest in dual D.O. Ph.D. study, a group is selected for encouragement and consideration.
*During the 2nd summer or 3rd summer the student is required to write a NRSA or a similar proposal to another agency, based on the topic of his or her Ph.D. research. This requirement is designed to help a student develop a research plan and educate the student about the life of a physician scientist, e.g., by writing a research proposal that will be in competition for research funding.
The selection of candidates is based on: GPA
- The average for each entering class has consistently been 3.6 and above
- MCAT
- The average score for each entering class has ranged from 29 to 32.
- Graduate Record Exam: (GRE)
- Average scores: 580 Verbal; 720 Quantitative; Analytical Writing Assessment Exam - 5
- Evidence of substantial participation in research as an undergraduate or gradaute student
- Three Letters of Recommendation - From faculty who will attest to the motivation and ability of the student to carry out research.
- A written statement of career goals
purpose of this program is to prepare these select students for careers in biomedical research or academic medicine. Students in the program dedicate themselves to seven or more years of education and training to become medical scientists. Their training will enable them to become physician-scientists working in clinical or basic science research. They may either work mainly with patients in a hospital or clinic or as physicians working in the basic sciences with research animals or cells in the laboratory. Most graduates of the D.O. Ph.D. will seek careers in osteopathic medical colleges, universities, or major medical research centers. These physician-scientists bridge the gap between basic science and clinical practice. However, the national reserve of physician-scientists has seriously decreased in recent years. For Osteopathic Medicine, the need for physician scientists is critical. To meet this need MSU COM has developed its D.O. Ph.D. Program.
