Health Outcomes Research, Ph.D. and Medicine, M.D. Dual Degree
As one of the few universities to offer such a degree, Saint Louis University has designed its M.D./Ph.D. dual-degree program in health outcomes research to prepare students to be excellent doctors and clinical researchers.
A SLU student with a Ph.D. in health outcomes research in addition to an M.D. will have a competitive edge when applying for residency and will be able to start a strong research career in medicine before they complete their training as a physician. Guided by outcomes research faculty with expertise in multiple areas of medicine, graduates leave the program prepared to provide excellent medical care and evaluate patient outcomes and preferences, compare the effectiveness of treatments and establish evidence to improve the final stages of care.
The M.D./Ph.D. program in Health and Clinical Outcomes research is a unique opportunity to develop robust research methodology while maintaining a strong foundation in clinical medicine with an eye towards equity in research. The collaborative and inclusive environment provides opportunities to engage in research efforts across a wide range of subject areas, increasing my exposure to and proficiency in health data utilization which I will leverage in my career as a research physician. – Lily McMorrow (expected graduation 2030)
For additional information, see the catalog entries for the following SLU programs:
Health Outcomes Research, Ph.D.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1.
For more information, visit the student financial services office online at https://www.slu.edu/financial-aid/index.php.
Accreditation
Saint Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been continuously accredited since 1916.
Admission Requirements
Students must first be admitted to the School of Medicine before being considered for acceptance into the M.D./Ph.D. in Health Outcomes Research. Questions about admission to the dual-degree program can be directed to the MD/PhD program director.
Most trainees are chosen in the early spring to begin their research training by mid-June before commencing their first year of M.D. studies in mid-August. Other qualified individuals may apply after starting their M.D. training.
Applicants to the M.D./Ph.D. program are screened by the steering committee for the M.D./Ph.D. program.
Program Requirements
Students begin their program by completing the first and second years of their M.D. studies. By the winter of their second year of medical studies, students will select a Ph.D. mentor from SLU’s Department of Health and Clinical Outcomes Research.
Completion of all Ph.D. candidacy requirements and oral defense of the doctoral dissertation is followed by a transitional clerkship that facilitates re-entry into the third and fourth years of M.D. studies.
Up to 9 credits, with approval from Ph.D. mentor, from the M.D. program will count towards the completion of the Ph.D. in Health Outcomes Research.
Trainees in this program should complete all requirements for both degrees within seven to eight years and students are expected to complete both the M.D. and Ph.D. components on a full-time basis.
Continuation Standards
Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.
For more information about the health outcomes research Ph.D. or this degree program, contact:
Department of Health and Clinical Outcomes Research
hcorgrad@health.slu.edu