Admissions

Eligibility and Application Procedures

Applications are accepted to the MD/PHD program from all US Citizens and those holding permanent resident status within the United States. Applicants to the MD/PHD program should apply directly to the University of Massachusetts Medical School through the  American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) , indicating their interest in the combined degree program. Upon receipt of the AMCAS application, a UMMS supplemental application form will be forwarded to each applicant as well as materials related to the MD/PHD program. The only standardized testing required is the MCAT.
Operating RoomCompetitive applicants to the MD/PHD program should present a strong background in the biological and physical sciences as well as substantial laboratory-based research experience .

Selection for admission to University of Massachusetts Medical School is determined by an admissions committee composed of representative faculty members and medical students from the medical school. A number of factors are carefully considered in the committee's review of each applicant's

qualifications and in the selection of a matriculating class that will represent a broad and diverse spectrum of individuals, backgrounds and interests. These factors include but are not restricted to the following:

  • prior academic performance
  • content and breadth of scholastic preparation
  • standardized test performance (MCAT)
  • service activities which indicate an ability to work with people in a "helping" role
  • a baccalaureate degree
  • Applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents.  Application to the PhD/MD program is not restricted to residents of Massachusetts. 
  • diversity of experience in a variety of areas including professional or educational experience, family or cultural background, and avocation activities
  • extracurricular accomplishments
  • oral communication and interpersonal skills as documented in letters of support and in the medical school interview
  • written communication skills as determined by academic performance, standardized testing, and materials submitted in the application package
  • achievement in scientific research and/or medically-related service
  • evidence of motivation and preparedness for medicine; attributes and values deemed necessary for physicians, including: honesty; altruism; compassion; flexibility; maturity; intellectual curiosity; self-awareness; ability for self-directed learning; ability to work as a member of a team.

Research at microscope, Biotech Two Building In consideration of these factors described above, the University of Massachusetts Medical School encourages students to pursue a pre-medical education of considerable breadth including such course work as English literature and composition, foreign languages, history, economics, ethics, and the fine arts. All students must complete the course work identified in the "Admissions Requirements"  demonstrating strong performance in the biological and physical sciences, as a sound foundation for pursuing further study in the medical sciences.

There is no single program that can be recommended as the "best" or "preferred" plan of study. Candidates are therefore encouraged to select educational programs that best reflect individual interests and aptitudes. Whenever possible, advanced study in a field of interest is encouraged, with particular emphasis on activities involving independent study.

Students who are granted advanced placement credits for course work taken in secondary school are advised to take additional college level programs in these subject areas.

Office of Admissions
55 Lake Avenue North
Worcester, MA 01655

PH: (508) 856-2323
FAX: (508) 856-3629
TDD: (508) 856-5477