Physician scientists play a unique role in contemporary medical research, combining research with clinical practice. The physician scientist program (M.D./Ph.D.) offered by the USD Sanford School of Medicine integrates achievement of both the M.D. degree and the Ph.D. degree. You'll start by focusing on the M.D. program, taking pre-clinical coursework of the medical training program and identifying an area of research. In the next three years you'll complete the Ph.D. component before then finishing the M.D. program.
Research is a defining element of your program. USD is home to state-of-the-art facilities and internationally-recognized research mentors, giving you the resources and connections you need to thrive. You perform important research in a research area of interest such as biochemistry, molecular biology, cellular biology, anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, microbiology, immunology or neuroscience. In the next three to four years through this hands-on, robust program, you will set yourself up for a successful career as a physician scientist.
