MD/PhD Program

Course description

The Institute for Neuroscience offers an MD-PhD degree in Neuroscience in conjunction with the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Students admitted into this dual-degree program undergo medical training at UTMB and then transfer to UT-Austin to complete their graduate work. Students accepted into this program will spend their first two years in medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, studying primarily pre-clinical basic sciences. Students then move to UT Austin for four to five years of Ph.D. coursework and research in Neurosciences (NS). The program culminates in the award of the Ph.D. degree in Neurosciences by UT Austin and the M.D. degree by UTMB. Please contact Leslie Walters (lesliemdphd@mail.utexas.edu) for up to date program information , or you may contact our Graduate Advisor John Mihic or Graduate Coordinator Krystal Phu for more information.

Entry requirements

All students must satisfy the established requirements for admission to the School of Medicine at UTMB and the Neuroscience graduate program at UT Austin. The graduate programs require three letters of recommendation, One of these letters should address student potential as a physician scientist from a research mentor. Students applying for the select pathway should satisfy the following requirements: Outstanding performance in course work during years 1-3 of undergraduate studies, as indicated by grades and letters of recommendation from instructors; Indication of interest, capabilities and potential in biomedical research as indicated by prior direct research experience, letters of recommendation from research mentors, and discussion of research project(s)/results during interviews. At least one year of continuous research experience or the equivalent is highly desirable; Ability to perform well on standardized exams, as indicated by satisfactory performance on the GRE exam taken during their junior undergraduate year; Evidence of future potential as a physician scientist and the level of maturity and motivation expected of dual degree candidates, based on the information above, as well as personal statements and interviews.

Application details

Students should apply to the dual degree program through AMCAS and should select the UTMB MD/PhD program. A satisfactory score on the GRE and/or MCAT are required. Three letters of recommendation, at least one letter should be from a research mentor that addresses student research progress and potential as a physician scientist. Statement of purpose. Student should submit application form and essay through online. Send Transcripts and letters of recommendation directly to:

Dual MD-PhD Select Program,
Executive VP and Provost,
1 University Station G1000,
University of Texas at Austin,
Austin, TX 78712-0538.