Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the MD/PhD Program?
The entire Program consists of 7 years (2 pre-clerkship years at the MD level, 3 years at the PhD level and the final 2 clerkship years at the MD level). Please consult the summary graphic for more details about the program length.
When did the MD/PhD Program start at the University of Ottawa?
The first cohort of students were enrolled in the fall of 2010. The first 3 students completed the program in May 2017.
What graduate programs are available for the PhD portion of the program?
The MD/PhD Program combines the existing MD undergraduate curriculum with one of the following graduate programs;
- Biochemistry
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine (with or without specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics)
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Biology from the Faculty of Science
I heard the School of Epidemiology and Public Health has a PhD in Epidemiology, is this program eligible as part of the MD/PhD?
The Epidemiology program is not currently participating in the MD/PhD Program, but efforts to integrate it are underway.
How many students are admitted into the MD/PhD Program each year?
The Faculty of Medicine will enroll a maximum of four MD/PhD students per incoming MD class during the initial phase of our program. This represents approximately 2.4 percent of the total enrollments in the Faculty of Medicine. Plans have been submitted to increase the number of accepted students.
I have been admitted to the MD Program this year; can I apply for admission in the MD/PhD Program in my second year?
Unfortunately no; as we will be enrolling four students per year, we currently do not encourage MD students to transfer into the MD/PhD in their second year (or later).
Will I need to take PhD courses concurrently with the MD program?
Yes, successful applicants to MD/PhD Program need to take 1-2 graduate courses during their first three years of studies.
When will successful applicants need to decide on a PhD program?
A PhD program and a PhD research supervisor will generally be determined during the first year of the MD program.
If I am not selected for the PhD portion of the MD/PhD Program, will I automatically be disqualified from the MD Program as well?
No. If you are not selected for the PhD portion of the MD/PhD Program, you will still be considered for the MD Program provided you have met its requirements. Therefore, it is possible to apply to the MD/PhD Program, not be selected for the PhD portion, but still be considered for the MD Program.
Who can help me if I have further questions?
For all questions regarding the PhD portion of the program, please contact the Faculty of Medicine Graduate Studies Office or phone at 613-562-5215.
For all questions regarding the MD portion of the program, please send an email to the admission sector of the Undergraduate Medical Education Office or call 613-562-5409.