Medical Research (MD/MS)

Major: Medical Research
Degree Awarded: Medical Doctor/Master of Science (MD/MS)
Calendar Type: Semester
Minimum Total Credit Hours: 30.0 
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 26.0102
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 19-1029

About the Program

The MD-MS in Medical Research (MD-MS) dual-degree program is designed to prepare physician scientists for careers as lifetime learners. The program is built on the foundation that clinical medicine and biomedical research enjoy a unique synergy. Physician scientists are uniquely poised to recognize, understand, apply and expand clinical applications of basic research or identify novel or emerging areas of scientific inquiry that are needed to support clinical efforts.

The MD-MS degree in Medical Research accepts Drexel medical students who are in good academic standing, following their completion of the required medical school coursework as outlined in the plan of study. Qualified students transfer into the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, where they are enrolled in the second year of the MS in Medical Research program. At the end of this year, following successful completion of the required coursework, students are eligible for the Master of Science in Medical Research degree. At the conclusion of this one-year course of study, students transfer back to the medical school to complete their requirements for the MD degree.

Additional Information

Drexel University College of Medicine
Division of Pre-medical and Pre-health Programs
Health Sciences Building, 10th floor
60 North 36th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
267.359.2761
Email: CoM_MedicalSciences@drexel.edu

Admission Requirements

Medical students admitted to Drexel University College of Medicine are eligible for admission to the Master of Science in Medical Research.

Eligible applicants to the MD-MS program must first submit their application to Drexel University College of Medicine. On the College of Medicine’s supplemental application, check the "Master of Science in Medical Research" box to be automatically considered for the MD-MS program. If the applicant is accepted to the College of Medicine, they will then be reviewed for admission to the dual degree program. Third-year medical students can also apply while in the MD program.

The dual MD-MS degree in Medical Research program accepts Drexel medical students who are in good academic standing and enrolls them in the second year of the MS in Medical Research program to engage in their research. At the end of this year, if they successfully complete the coursework, medical students are eligible for the Master of Science in Medical Research.

Students currently enrolled in the College of Medicine who wish to apply to the MD-MS may complete an application for the MS in Medical Research program beginning on October 1 and no later than March 30 of the previous academic year.

Students admitted to the MD-MS program will be awarded advanced standing in the MS program.

Degree Requirements

Sample Plan of Study

Program Level Outcomes  

• Demonstrate the ability to be creative, critical and analytical thinkers.    
• Demonstrate a knowledge base and skill set compatible with success in health professional programs.    
• Demonstrate research design competencies.    
• Demonstrate ability to execute a variety of laboratory techniques relevant to their field of research.    
• Demonstrate competencies with statistics, data analysis and interpretation.    
• Demonstrate ability to critically read and analyze their own work and the scientific literature, and understand its impact on medicine and society.    
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively.    
• Understand how to conduct research in an ethical manner.    
• Build the foundations of a robust professional network.    
• Develop the knowledge base, technical skills and sense of professionalism necessary for a career that encompasses discovery.    
• Develop as a well-rounded, competitive applicant for future educational endeavors in the medical and health sciences.