McMaster University

Overview

The Health Sciences MD/PhD program at McMaster University offers a unique integrated training pathway designed for aspiring clinician-scientists. This program allows students to simultaneously pursue their medical degree (MD) alongside doctoral research training (PhD) within a coordinated structure, fostering a comprehensive understanding of both clinical practice and scientific inquiry.

What you'll study

This integrated program comprises two main components: the MD curriculum and the PhD research training. Students will work through both aspects while fulfilling the requirements of their selected PhD discipline.

Participating PhD areas

• Biochemistry and Biochemical Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Sciences
• Neuroscience
• Chemical Biology
• Health Policy
• Health Research Methodology

Typical learning components

• MD curriculum: Offers foundational and clinical training essential for developing required medical competencies.
• PhD curriculum: Involves doctoral coursework (where applicable) and research training tailored to the selected discipline.
• Research development: Guides students toward completing a PhD thesis/dissertation under the supervision of faculty mentors in their research area.
• Milestones and assessments: Includes regular academic and research evaluations to ensure ongoing progress in both the MD and PhD components.

Note: The specific sequence of MD and PhD milestones may vary based on individual research plans and progress. Prospective applicants should consult the current program guidelines for the most accurate information.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the MD/PhD Program at McMaster University must meet the following minimum academic criteria, alongside the entry requirements for their chosen PhD program:

• A completed 4-year Bachelor’s degree prior to entry into the program.
• A minimum GPA of 3.8/4.0 in the final two years of undergraduate study, with an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0/4.0.
• A minimum score of 127 on the Critical Analysis and Reasoning section of the MCAT, taken within the last five years.
• Compliance with the entry criteria for the eligible PhD program of choice.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MD/PhD program are well-equipped for diverse career paths, combining clinical practice with research expertise. They may pursue roles in academia, clinical research, public health, or healthcare policy, making significant contributions to both medical science and patient care.