Doctor of Medicine/PhD in Medical Scientist Training Program in Ann Arbor United States | University of Michigan Ann Arbor

The Medical School offers a cutting-edge curriculum that enhances learning through clinical experiences, with the PhD program strategically timed to ensure seamless transitions. The standard MD program consists of a one-year Scientific Trunk for preclinical studies, followed by a Clinical Trunk year with seven core clerkships (such as internal medicine and pediatrics), and two Branches years filled with diverse electives to hone clinical expertise and explore specialized fields. Students collaborate individually with a Branch Advisor to craft a personalized development plan, with MSTP students enjoying reduced Branches requirements from 17 to 11 months.
MSTP students enrich their MD studies with BioChem 552, a graduate-level literature discussion course tailored for first-year MSTP participants, focusing on analyzing groundbreaking research papers.
While MSTP students may opt for a 4-week summer research rotation after M1, many prefer four 1-week lab "experiences," attending meetings, reviewing literature, and working alongside researchers to determine if a full rotation post-M2 is suitable. This approach has proven highly beneficial for both students and mentors.
Most MSTP students finish their M2 Clinical Trunk before taking board exams and transitioning to PhD training.
Each student receives guidance from a Research Rotation Advisory Committee to help select rotation mentors and a PhD program.
Two research rotations are mandatory, though many complete three—typically starting after the Scientific Trunk, with additional rotations following the Clinical Trunk and board exams.
To retain clinical proficiency, students engage in a longitudinal preceptor program during their PhD phase.