Should I get a PH.D, and MD, or and MD/PH.D?

Hi Samantha,

As far as I know, MD can do research and normally their research is more associated with clinical study. Well, it doesn't mean that MD can't do basic science research, though. The only difference is Ph.D. can't go into practice.

All the best for your choice. You are going to be great.

Hi Samantha,

It depends on your goals. For reference, I have a PhD and know MDs and MD/PhDs either from graduate school and/or working in academic research labs. If you just want to do lab work, even if it relates to studying human disease, a PhD is usually the way to go. I have done a lot of work in the cancer research area and have been able to contribute to the advancement of in that area. If I needed clinical data, there are always MDs or MD/PhDs that are more than willing to collaborate. It helps them too because they are usually too busy to be in the lab. MD/PhDs can do both, but if you want any form of life outside of work, this is very difficult. They have massive amounts of responsibilities and there time is then very limited. Also, going that path is very long because you have to complete 4 years of med school and complete a PhD as well. From my experience, they tend to complete their PhDs faster than people that just get PhDs but it still is a long haul. Then MD/PhDs have to do residency and then they can start their careers. With all of that, you are set up for success though. In my opinion, they can get grant funding easier than most PhDs because they have a clinical angle to add and that is extremely important for NIH grants. MDs can do research, but it seems fairly rare to me. I don't know much about that path other than you still are very busy with both laboratory and doctor responsibilities. All have benefits and drawbacks. If you can, ask MD/PhDs that are at your university about how it is. PhDs are more common and it's easier to see how they live. I would also suggest to shadow an MD in the field(s) you are interested in to see if that is your cup of tea. Hope this is helpful.

Tom

Hi Samantha,

As everyone else suggested it totally depends upon your career goals. PhD is more research intensive and in my opinion should be followed only if you are really passionate about lab/basic research. MD or MD/PhD are equally intense but they give you a real-life exposure to human biology along with lab research. In the long run they lead to more career opportunities in and outside academia and you get to see real patients and treat them. In PhD, most of your efforts are behind the scene and indirect so you must have a strong passion and self-motivation to feel fulfilled. Hope it helps. Good Luck!