Pioneering Academics > Graduate Programs > MD/PhD in Medicine and Nanoscale Science or Engineering > MD/PhD in Nanomedicine FAQs

1) Who is eligible to apply to the MD/PhD Program?

Applicants must have successfully completed a bachelor's degree and have met the minimum requirements for admission for both the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine and the UAlbany College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering. This is a highly competitive program attracting top-flight talent from around the world - successful applicants will have demonstrated proficiency in the life sciences, humanities, and communication (English). Those with diverse training and experience as well as non-traditional students are encouraged to apply.

College of Medicine Requirements for Admission: http://sls.downstate.edu/admissions/medicine/requirements.html

College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering Requirements for Admission: http://cnse.albany.edu/PioneeringAcademics/GraduatePrograms/Admissions.aspx

2) When is the application deadline?

CNSE has a rolling admissions process. Applicants should adhere to the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine application cycle:

June 1: Earliest date to complete an AMCAS application
August 1: Latest date for Early Decision applicants to file an AMCAS application
August 17: Latest date for Early Decision applicants to have a completed application on file
December 15: Latest date for applicants to have a completed application on file at AMCAS
December 15: M.D./Ph.D. Latest Date to complete application with School of Graduate Studies
February 1: Latest date to have a completed application on file in the Office of Admissions

May 3: Latest date to request a deferred acceptance

3) How many applicants do you interview and admit?

The number of applicants interviewed and admitted each cycle depends on the number of currently open slots, the quality of the applicant pool, and available funding.

4) How do I find out the status of my application?

A representative of the program will contact you once your application is accepted or rejected. You may contact the CNSE Office of Student Services at any time for an update on the status of your review.

5) How long does it take to complete both degrees?

The program is structured such that both degrees will be completed in approximately seven years. This may be extended under certain circumstances where additional time is needed to complete the training.

6) How will I be supported through my training?

Full-time students MD/PhD candidates receive financial support in the form of a full tuition scholarship and a graduate assistantship (stipend). The basic stipend for the 2008-09 academic year (paid as a graduate assistantship as long as the student remains in good academic standing) was $25,385 annually. Stipends are provided to entry-level PhD and MD/PhD students from SUNY Downstate school-wide resources for the first two years. In subsequent years, stipends are provided by training grants, pre-doctoral fellowships, or research grants awarded to individual researchers.

For additional information: http://www.downstate.edu/grad/financial.html

7) Are there laboratory-based research rotations?

Yes, students will begin their laboratory rotations during the summer before starting medical school and between years one and two of medical school. After the completion of the second summer experience, the student will then decide on their PhD thesis advisor.

8) Do I need to take the GRE along with the MCAT to apply for the MD/PhD program?

Applicants to the MD/PhD in Nanomedicine Program must take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) but are not required to take the GRE.

9) Is there an interview for the MD/PhD program in addition to the MD admission process?

Yes. Applicants will be interviewed in person at one of the two institutions or both.

10) Is previous research experience required to apply for this program?

Prior experience in scientific research is preferred, but not required.

11) Will someone help me find housing options as I move between NYC and Albany?

Yes, representatives from each institution will assist you with relocation and housing options to ensure smooth transitions during your training.

12) Can I complete my Ph.D. in any constellation at CNSE?

Yes, although it is expected that most students will complete their thesis project in the nanobioscience constellation. However, if a student has particular interest in nanoscience, nanoengineering, or nanoeconomics, he/she may select a mentor in one of those constellations.