Introduction

Although the pace of biomedical discovery continues to accelerate, there is a pressing need to provide additional avenues to train physician-scientists that are capable of moving these discoveries to the bedside. In recent years, greater attention has been paid to providing opportunities for medical students at early points in their schooling. Such opportunities are provided by a number of programs at UT Southwestern and nationwide, and include short-term training opportunities (such as those provided by the NIH funded T-35 grant) and the Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellowship for Medical students.

In order to provide a more robust opportunity by which interested medical students can enhance the level of clinical research training, UT Southwestern has established a combined MD-Masters in Clinical Science Program. This training program will combine rigorous didactic training with a mentored clinical research project. The completion of the didactic and practical training will be marked by the successful submission and public defense of a Masters thesis.

Who is eligible ?

At present, this program is available only to medical students enrolled at UT Southwestern. It is anticipated that this program will become more broadly accessible in future years.

What is the timing of the program?

It is anticipated that interested students will conduct the two years of the Masters program following the completion of their third year of medical school. In selected instances, applications will be accepted from students that will have completed their second year of medical school.

What does the program provide?

Following the third year of medical school, students enter the two Master's years of the program. During this time, students will receive a stipend, graduate school tuition, and health insurance. This support will be continued throughout the duration of the Masters years of the program.

Importantly, after the successful completion of the Master's component of the program, students will receive stipend, medical school tuition, and health insurance support during their final year of medical school. 

Application process and selection criteria

Application to the program will employ the electronic graduate school application (see left navigation link). Successful candidates will be chosen following review by the MD-Master's Program - Selection Committee.

In addition to the completed on-line application form, an official medical school transcript and two letters of recommendation are required. For students applying for the 2008-2009 school year, applications should be completed by February 8, 2008. Students selected to participate in the program for the 2008-2009 school year will begin their didactic coursework during the 2008 Fall semester.

Where can I obtain more information?

Contact Dr. McPhaul at 214 648 3465 or by e-mail at: michael.mcphaul@utsouthwestern.edu .