About the Program

For students who are passionate about a career as a physician scientist, the M.D./Ph.D. program integrates medical education with rigorous biomedical research. Through mentorship from both clinical and research faculty, students receive individualized guidance that supports their evolving career goals and development as independent investigators.

The program fosters critical skills in experimental design, translational thinking, and scientific communication, while maintaining meaningful clinical engagement throughout training. Graduates emerge prepared to bridge discovery and patient care as leaders in academic medicine and biomedical innovation.

Why Get a Dual Degree

A dual degree will give you a deeper understanding of medical research and how it applies to patient care. When you've completed the program, you'll be able to practice medicine and conduct high-impact research. 

How to Apply

In order to be qualified for the dual degree program, students must already be admitted to our M.D. program. Once admitted, you'll be eligible to interview for the dual degree track. You should show an interest in both science and medicine by participating in prior medical research activities, such as internships in university departments, the NIH or CDC.

Applying to the School of Medicine 

The School of Medicine uses the American Medical College Application to process it's applications. Before you apply, be sure you meet all the requirements for the program. Within the AMCAS system, you will have the option to check a box indicating interest in the M.D./Ph.D. program.

Applying to the M.D./Ph.D. Track

For those who indicate interest in the M.D./Ph.D. program, an interview will be scheduled prior to the start of your M1 year. Acceptance into the M.D./Ph.D. track is based on a clear, sustained interest in integrating clinical medicine and research, clarity of research interests and direction, and commitment to program completion. Students wanting to complete a dual degree must be admitted to the M.D./Ph.D. track prior to the start of M1, although official acceptance into the Ph.D. program will take place later. Students accepted into the track will receive physician scientist training and mentorship by an M.D./Ph.D. committee as soon as they start their M1 year.

Applying to the Ph.D. Program

You'll apply to the Ph.D. program through the USC Graduate School. Before you apply, be sure you meet all the requirements for the program. 

Requirements

• Application deadline for M.D. program is November 1st
• Acceptance deadline for the M.D./Ph.D. track is prior to the start of the M1 year
• Application deadline for Ph.D. program is December 15
• MCAT and GRE scores

---