MD-PhD Program

The application deadline for the Sep 2026 intake is Dec 1, 2026. Tuition is Students in the program will receive full tuition remission, a stipend during all phases of the curriculum and health insurance during the graduate research phase..

This is a Physician Scientist training program that awards both MD and PhD degrees. It combines two years of pre-clinical medical training with graduate research in basic science departments and two years of clinical rotations. The program emphasizes the translational pathway from disease mechanisms to clinical innovation and community-engaged research, offering individualized attention and flexibility in research design.

Focus areas include Cancer Research, Cardiovascular Research, Neuroscience and Neurotrauma, Spinal Cord Injury Research, Infection and Inflammation, Environmental Health.

The curriculum integrates pre-clinical medical coursework, graduate coursework, and original research for a PhD dissertation, followed by clinical training for an MD. It includes summer research, medical school years with integrated courses and clerkships, and typically 3-4 years of graduate research. Total credits are not explicitly stated.

Graduates match to their top residency choice and pursue careers as physician-scientists.

Applicants must apply to the Medical School via AMCAS and take the MCAT, indicating interest on the University of Louisville secondary application. Prerequisites for the School of Medicine must be met, along with a proven commitment to biomedical research; no minimum GPA or MCAT is specified, and GRE is not considered.

Average time to MD-PhD is 7.7 years. For international students, tuition is above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 81% of applicants.

The University of Louisville is a comprehensive public research university offering a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes. With strong emphasis on research, creative activity, and community engagement, UofL provides students with mentorship from faculty who are active in their fields. The campus environment fosters collaboration and supports diverse academic interests across sciences, arts, health professions, and professional disciplines.

UofL encourages student involvement in research, internships, and community projects that build practical skills and professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services that assist with admissions, orientation, academic advising, and cultural integration. The university’s facilities and partnerships enable hands-on learning and access to regional industry connections, which are valuable for career development and experiential education.

Prospective students should consider UofL for its strong research culture, inclusive community, and range of programmes that prepare graduates for global careers. Explore specific schools and departments, scholarship opportunities, and international student resources to plan your transition. Engaging early with advisors and campus services will help you maximize academic and extracurricular opportunities while studying in Louisville.