"Training as a physician-scientist through SLU's M.D./Ph.D. program is excellent preparation for my desired career caring for patients and conducting research to further improve that care. Through the Ph.D. in Health and Clinical Outcomes Research, I've gained a breadth and depth of expertise in human-centered, data-driven research, with an understanding of the entire research process from literature review and synthesis through study design and execution. Through close collaborations with the AHEAD institute, I've learned from experienced biostatisticians and leveraged a variety of real-world data sources to conduct and publish research, facilitating my contributions to the field as a trainee and emerging researcher as well as preparing me to engage in collaboration throughout my career."

– Elisabeth DeMarco, M.D./Ph.D. Candidate ('27)

Health Outcomes Research, Ph.D. and Medicine, M.D. Dual Degree

Overview
Requirements
Contact Info

Saint Louis University's M.D./Ph.D. program in Health Outcomes Research stands at the forefront of training physician-scientists to tackle complex healthcare issues. This innovative dual-degree program integrates intensive medical education with advanced research training, empowering students to investigate and address critical questions in healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and healthcare policy.

Students in this program benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that combines clinical rotations with rigorous research methodologies. They engage in cutting-edge research projects under the mentorship of esteemed faculty, gaining hands-on experience in analyzing health data, conducting clinical trials, and developing innovative approaches to improve healthcare quality and accessibility.

Graduates of SLU's M.D./Ph.D. program emerge with a deep understanding of both clinical practice and scientific inquiry, equipped to drive impactful change in healthcare systems. They are prepared to lead interdisciplinary teams, collaborate across specialties, and translate research findings into tangible improvements in patient care and healthcare policy.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities, a supportive academic community, and opportunities to collaborate with leading healthcare organizations, SLU's M.D./Ph.D. program in Health Outcomes Research empowers future physician-scientists to make meaningful contributions to the field, shaping the future of healthcare for generations to come.

For additional information, see the catalog entries for the following SLU programs:

Medicine, M.D.

Health Outcomes Research, Ph.D.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1.

For more information, visit the Office of Student Financial Services.

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 M.D./Ph.D. 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