MD/PhD FAQ

• I would like to be an MD/PhD applicant. Do I need to fill out a separate application for the PhD component?
  For the initial review, a separate graduate school application is not needed. We may ask the applicant for permission to share their AMCAS file with the PhD program for an early review. If the candidate is chosen to move forward in the process, a separate application to the MSU Graduate School may be required. Applicants do not need to complete a separate application to the Van Andel Institute Graduate School (VAIGS). You may request in advance that your AMCAS materials be forwarded to the appropriate graduate program. Please contact Cindy Grove Arvidson, PhD, by email or at (517) 884-1854 with your request.
• Do I need to take the GRE to be eligible for the MD/PhD program?
  CHM-MSU: Possibly. Many graduate programs are accepting the MCAT in lieu of the GRE. Please review the requirements for your program of interest on the Graduate School website or contact the MD/PhD Program Director, Cindy Grove Arvidson, PhD, by email or at (517) 884-1854.
  
  CHM-VAIGS: No. VAIGS will accept MCAT scores in lieu of the GRE scores.
• What are some of the PhD programs chosen by MD/PhD applicants?
  CHM-MSU: CHM-MSU students pursue a Michigan State University doctorate in a variety of fields, including biochemistry and molecular biology, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology and molecular genetics, epidemiology, neuroscience, pharmacology and toxicology, and physiology. Applications to non-traditional PhD programs, such as those in the social sciences, are also encouraged.
  
  CHM-VAIGS: CHM-VAIGS students pursue a PhD in a unique, research-intensive program in cellular and molecular biology.
• Do I need previous research experience?
  Yes. Research experience is an important factor in the evaluation of your application to the MD/PhD program.
• Can I change my application type from MD/PhD to just an MD application after I have submitted it to AMCAS?
  No. Your application will only be considered as an MD/PhD application. You cannot change your application type. MD/PhD applicants who are not accepted by the MD/PhD Selection Committee are not eligible for admission to the CHM MD program within the same application cycle.
• Will applying to the MD/PhD program or being accepted by the MSU Graduate School or VAIGS increase my likelihood of being accepted to CHM as a medical student?
  No. Medical school admission decisions and MD/PhD admission decisions are made by two separate committees using two different processes. Your academic successes and research accomplishments will be taken into consideration by the CHM Committee on Admissions, but many other factors are also considered in making the decision to accept an applicant into the CHM class.
• Will it help or hurt me to apply to both the CHM-MSU and CHM-VAIGS programs?
  Applying to both programs will not affect your chances of acceptance to either program. However, if you are accepted to both programs, a prompt decision regarding which acceptance you will maintain is expected.
• How long does it take to complete both degrees?
  Seven to eight years is the average to complete the entire program.
• If I do not get fellowship support for the MD/PhD program, may I still be in the program? I will secure my own funding.
  Yes, current applicants accepted to CHM and current CHM students may pursue a PhD degree through the CHM MD/PhD program even if they do not receive one of the fellowship positions. Applicants must apply to and be accepted by the CHM MD/PhD program selection committee through the same process as those applying for fellowships.
• How can I find out more about MD/PhD programs in general?
  Additional information for MD/PhD applicants can be found on the AAMC MD/PhD webpage.