MD Requirements

A candidate for the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the University of Louisville School of Medicine must meet the following requirements:

Satisfactory completion of the medical school curriculum and USMLE Steps 1 and 2 examinations.
Satisfactory demonstration of ability, ethical character, responsibility, integrity and personal characteristics suitable for a career in the practice of medicine.
Satisfactory discharge of all financial obligations to the University.
Students with federal loans and grants must attend a group or individual exit interview with the Medical Student Financial Aid Office and complete the exit interview information sheet as required by federal regulations before Commencement of the year in which graduating.

To satisfy the second requirement above, students must comply with the rules and regulation of the University, the School of Medicine, and the laws of the city, state and federal governments. In addition, students are expected to possess and display physical stamina, effective interpersonal skills and personal qualities consistent with the expectations of society and the medical profession. Consequently, the Dean, in accordance with the procedures set forth in The Redbook, may consider any questions of a student's unwillingness, failure, or inability to fulfill these expectations to be an academic matter.

The School of Medicine may terminate the attendance of any student at any time or strike from the list of candidates for the degree any student whom the Dean determines is or will be unable to satisfy the standards of professional fitness required of all candidates for the Doctor of Medicine degree. Conduct that may result in such a determination by the Dean includes but is not necessarily limited to academic dishonesty, neglect of study, and illegal or inappropriate behavior.

Course Requirements

Year One

Clinical Anatomy, Development & Physical Examination (CADE): 19-week course in fall semester that integrates Gross Anatomy, Embryology, and Physical Examination content by body region.

Molecular Basis of Life, Defense and Disease: 16-week course in spring semester that integrates foundational biochemistry, medical genetics, immunology, tissue and body fluid physiology, pathology, and pharmacology to introduce immunologic function in disease and health; normal cellular and tissue histology in health, injury, and healing; foundational microbiology; and mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of neoplastic and hematologic diseases.

Introduction to Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Medicine: 2-week course in spring semester that concentrates principles of biomedical research, foundational statistics, medical informatics, and application of evidence to patient care.

Introduction to Clinical Medicine 1 (ICM 1): two-semester course that covers foundational patient interviewing skills, professionalism and ethics, medical system structure and health disparities, provision of health maintenance and use of health guidelines.

Year Two

Human Systems in Health and Disease 1: 19-week course in fall semester that integrates the normal physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, nutritional/metabolic, and endocrine systems with their pathophysiologic function in disease, progression from normal histologic appearance to pathologic appearance, infecting microbes, and applicable pharmacologic treatments.

Human Systems in Health and Disease 2: 14-week course in spring semester that integrates the normal physiology of the reproductive, dermatologic, musculoskeletal, and behavioral systems as well as neurologic system diseases with their pathophysiologic function in disease, progression from normal histologic appearance to pathologic appearance, infecting microbes, and applicable pharmacologic treatments.

Introduction to Clinical Medicine 2 (ICM 2): two semester course that covers advanced clinical communication skills, specialized physical examination techniques, advanced medical ethics, medical socioeconomics and healthcare laws.

Year Three

Third Year core clerkships run concurrently throughout the academic year from July to June. The sequence of clerkships is organized on a track basis. Core clerkships include 6 weeks of Family Medicine, 8 weeks of Internal Medicine, 4 weeks of Neurology, 6 weeks of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 6 weeks of Pediatrics, 6 weeks of Psychiatry, and 8 weeks of Surgery.

There are no required electives in the third year, however, there are 6 weeks in the third-year schedule that can be used for electives or for vacation. Up to 4 of the 6 weeks can be used for career exploration electives; other types of electives can be taken during the remaining 2 weeks that are available.

Year Four

Fourth Year runs concurrently throughout the academic year from July to early May. Required clinical rotations include 4 weeks of an Acting Internship, 2 weeks of Critical Care, 1 week of Palliative Care, and 26-28 weeks of electives. In addition, students must complete Topics in Clinical Medicine and Advanced Cardiac Life Support courses.

Time Limit for Completion of the MD Degree

A student must complete all degree requirements within six (6) years of enrolling in the School of Medicine. This time period includes, leave of absence, the repeat of an academic year, and additional time to take and pass USMLE Steps 1, and 2. A student who does not complete all degree requirements within this time period will be subject to dismissal.

Three-year Rural Medicine Accelerated Track (RMAT) Requirements at Trover Campus

The RMAT track may enroll up to two students annually and must require students to complete all of the core objectives and assessments of the four-year MD program as well as a minimum of 130 weeks of instruction prior to graduation. RMAT candidates must also complete additional program objectives and assessments related to their ability to evaluate and address community health needs in a rural setting. Several RMAT-only courses within this track fulfill the required objectives for courses that are not completed by RMAT students and contain the required assessments or equivalent assessments for those courses. Specifically, the courses that are added to the curriculum for RMAT students are: RMAT-1, RMAT-2, RMAT-3, RMAT-4, and RMAT-5 as well as the longitudinal primary care clinic placement during the third year. These courses and requirements are placed in RMAT to fulfill the programmatic objective and assessment requirements found within the M3 Family Medicine Clerkship, the M4 Acting Internship, and M4 Palliative Care Rotation, and the M4 Intensive Care Unit Rotation.

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology

Unit(s): School of Medicine
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and ASNBPHD

Program Overview

The MD-PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology prepares physician‑scientists to investigate how the body’s structural organization and the nervous system’s development and function shape behavior and disease. The program integrates pre‑clinical medical study, advanced doctoral coursework, laboratory research, and clinical rotations to provide comprehensive training in both medicine and neuroscience.

Anatomical sciences and neurobiology brings together the study of gross anatomy, histology, and embryology with key areas of neuroscience, including neural development, sensory systems, neurotrauma, repair, and plasticity. Students build a strong foundation in structure–function relationships across molecular, cellular, and systems levels while engaging in research that spans development, plasticity, sensory and motor systems, and spinal cord injury. Training is grounded in innovative, hands‑on laboratory experience and close faculty mentoring.

Graduates are well prepared for careers that combine clinical practice with biomedical research, academic medicine, anatomical and neuroscience education, and leadership roles in biomedical, governmental, or industry research settings. Students receive full tuition remission, a stipend, and health insurance during the graduate research phase.

For more information on program benefits and examples of student research and publications, visit the MD‑PhD Program website.

Admission

Applicants must meet School of Medicine admission requirements and apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), including submission of MCAT scores. Applicants indicate interest in the MD-PhD program within the AMCAS application. Selected applicants interview with both the School of Medicine Admissions Committee and the MD-PhD Program Committee. Research experience and interest in a physician‑scientist career are important considerations.

Current UofL medical students may apply after completing the second year of medical school by contacting the MD-PhD Program Director.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy requirements for the PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in approximately seven (7) to eight (8) years with a minimum of 193.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements
The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
PhD Requirements ¹
ASNB 606	Anatomy Seminar	1
ASNB 619	Original Investigations	12
ASNB 622	Analytics in Biomedical Science	3
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
ASNB Upper-Level Guided Electives (select two of the following courses) ²		7
ASNB 614	Molecular Neuroscience
or ASNB 617	Seminar on Developmental Neurobiology
or ASNB 630	Origin of Mammalian Sensory Systems and Comparative Neurobiology
or ASNB 666	Synaptic Organization of the Central Nervous System
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: A passing score on the USMLE Step 1 examination substitutes for the written PhD qualifying exam requirement, as the exam demonstrates competency in foundational biomedical sciences comparable to the program’s qualifying assessment. In addition, the learning outcomes of Clinical Anatomy, Development, Examination and Neurosciences (IDEP 811) and Molecular Basis of Life, Defense, and Disease (IDEP 812) align with the learning competencies embedded in many required, core, and elective courses in the PhD curriculum. Completion of these courses therefore fulfills a substantial portion of the core course requirements for the PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology.
²: Students must complete at least six (6) credit hours from the designated upper‑level ASNB guided electives. To maintain the required nine (9) credit hours for full‑time enrollment during the fall and spring semesters, students may complete one (1) additional credit hour of Original Investigations (ASNB 619) if the selected guided electives total only six (6) credit hours rather than seven (7).

Program of Study
The table below outlines the typical sequence of coursework, research, and clinical training required for the MD-PhD dual degree, including important program milestones. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Prior to Year 1		Credit Hours / Milestone
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 1
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year One Curriculum ²		44
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 2
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ²		40
Summer
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
Year 3
Fall
ASNB 606	Anatomy Seminar	1
ASNB 622	Analytics in Biomedical Science	3
ASNB 619	Original Investigations	1
ASNB 630	Origin of Mammalian Sensory Systems and Comparative Neurobiology	4
or ASNB 614	Molecular Neuroscience
Spring
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
ASNB 619	Original Investigations	5
ASNB 617	Seminar on Developmental Neurobiology	3
or ASNB 666	Synaptic Organization of the Central Nervous System
Summer
ASNB 619	Original Investigations	6
Years 4 - 5/6
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy ³	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Year 6/7
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ²		55
Year 7/8
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ²		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Dual degree students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program before the first year of medical school and in the Summer Research Scholar Program between the first and second years. These experiences are not required but are strongly recommended to help prepare students for biomedical research. More information is available on the School of Medicine Research Programs website.
²: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
³: Students must remain enrolled in Doctoral Candidacy (DOCT 600) until they successfully defend their dissertation. This stage typically takes two (2) to three (3) years, depending on the scope of the student’s research study.

Contact

MD-PhD Program Co‑Directors:

Dr. Maxwell Boakye, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS — (502) 407‑3276
Dr. Kenneth Palmer, PhD — (502) 852-1339
Email: mdphd@louisville.edu

Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology Director of Graduate Studies:

Robin Krimm, Ph.D. — (502) 852-5180
Email: robin.krimm@louisville.edu

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmacology and Toxicology

Unit(s): School of Medicine
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and PHARPHD

Program Overview

The dual MD‑PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology prepares physician‑scientists to investigate how chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and environmental agents interact with biological systems to influence human health and disease. The program integrates pre‑clinical medical study, advanced doctoral coursework, laboratory research, and clinical rotations to provide comprehensive training in both medicine and the biomedical sciences.

Pharmacology and toxicology encompass the study of drug action, drug development, mechanisms of toxicity, and the body’s responses to therapeutic and harmful substances. Students explore fundamental and emerging topics such as molecular pharmacology, cellular signaling, biochemical toxicology, environmental health, and the pathways that drive drug efficacy, metabolism, and adverse effects. Training emphasizes rigorous experimental approaches, hands‑on research experiences, and close faculty mentoring across a broad range of investigative areas aligned with departmental strengths and the School of Medicine’s strategic priorities.

Graduates are well prepared for careers that integrate clinical practice with biomedical research, academic medicine, pharmaceutical and biotechnology innovation, regulatory and public health roles, and leadership positions in governmental or industry research settings. Students receive full tuition remission, a stipend, and health insurance during the graduate research phase. For more information on program benefits and examples of student research and publications, visit the MD‑PhD Program website.

Admission

Current UofL medical students may apply after completing the second year of medical school by contacting the MD-PhD Program Director.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy requirements for the PhD in Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in approximately seven (7) to eight (8) years with a minimum of 193.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements
The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
PhD Requirements ¹
PHTX 606	Seminar	2
PHTX 625	Scientific Writing	2
PHTX 619	Research	19
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Passing the USMLE Step 1 examination, along with completing Clinical Anatomy, Development, Examination and Neurosciences (IDEP 811) and Molecular Basis of Life, Defense, and Disease (IDEP 812), demonstrates mastery of learning outcomes for many required and elective courses in the PhD curriculum.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Prior to Year 1		Credit Hours / Milestone
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 1
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year One Curriculum ²		44
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ²		40
Summer
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
Year 3
Fall
PHTX 606	Seminar	1
PHTX 625	Scientific Writing	2
PHTX 619	Research	6
Spring
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
PHTX 606	Seminar	1
PHTX 619	Research	7
Summer
PHTX 619	Research	6
PhD Qualifying Exam		Passed
Years 4 - 5/6
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy ³	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Year 6/7
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ²		55
Year 7/8
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ²		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Dual degree students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program before the first year of medical school and in the Summer Research Scholar Program between the first and second years. These experiences are not required but are strongly recommended to help prepare students for biomedical research. More information is available on the School of Medicine Research Programs website.
²: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
³: Students must remain enrolled in Doctoral Candidacy (DOCT 600) until they successfully defend their dissertation. This stage typically takes two (2) to three (3) years, depending on the scope of the student’s research study.

Contact

MD-PhD Program Co‑Directors:

Dr. Maxwell Boakye, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS — (502) 407‑3276
Dr. Kenneth Palmer, PhD — (502) 852-1339
Email: mdphd@louisville.edu

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology Director of Graduate Studies

Dr. Nobuyuki Matoba, PhD — (502) 852-8412
Email: n.matoba@louisville.edu

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Microbiology and Immunology

Unit(s): School of Medicine
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and MBIOPHD

Program Overview

The dual MD‑PhD in Microbiology and Immunology prepares physician‑scientists to investigate how microbes and the immune system influence human health, disease, and therapeutic response. The program integrates pre‑clinical medical study, advanced doctoral coursework, laboratory research, and clinical rotations to provide comprehensive training in both medicine and the biomedical sciences.

Microbiology and immunology encompass the study of microbial pathogenesis, host immune defense, inflammation, vaccine development, immune regulation, and molecular mechanisms of infection and immunity. Students train across a broad range of research areas using state‑of‑the‑art microbiological, immunological, and molecular technologies. The program emphasizes rigorous laboratory experience, innovative investigative approaches, and close faculty mentoring that support the development of critical research skills.

Graduates are well prepared for careers that combine clinical practice with biomedical research, academic medicine, translational infectious disease and immunology research, public health and vaccine development, and leadership roles in governmental, industry, and biotechnology settings. Students receive full tuition remission, a competitive stipend, and health insurance during the graduate research phase.

For more information on program benefits and examples of student research and publications from the dual‑degree program, visit the MD‑PhD Program website.

Admission

Applicants must meet the School of Medicine admission requirements and apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), including submission of MCAT scores. Applicants indicate interest in the MD-PhD program within the AMCAS application. Selected applicants interview with both the School of Medicine Admissions Committee and the MD-PhD Program Committee. Research experience and interest in a physician‑scientist career are important considerations.

Current UofL medical students may apply after completing the second year of medical school by contacting the MD-PhD Program Director.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑PhD in Microbiology and Immunology dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy requirements for the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in approximately seven (7) to eight (8) years with a minimum of 193.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements
The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
PhD Requirements ¹
MBIO 606	Seminar	2
MBIO 619	Research ²	17
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
MBIO 623	Scientific Writing and Hypothesis Testing	2
MBIO Upper-Level Electives ²		2
PhD Qualifying Exam		Passed
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: A passing score on the USMLE Step 1 examination substitutes for the PhD qualifying exam requirement, as the exam demonstrates competency in foundational biomedical sciences comparable to the program's doctoral candidacy qualifying assessment. In addition, the learning outcomes of Clinical Anatomy, Development, Examination and Neurosciences (IDEP 811) and Molecular Basis of Life, Defense, and Disease (IDEP 812) align with the learning competencies of many required and elective courses in the PhD curriculum. Completion of these courses therefore fulfills a substantial portion of the core course requirements for the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology.
²: Students may substitute up to four (4) additional credit hours of upper‑level MBIO electives for four (4) credit hours of Research (MBIO 619). All students must complete a minimum of two (2) credit hours of upper‑level MBIO electives and a minimum of thirteen (13) credit hours of Research (MBIO 619), with a total of twenty‑one (21) credit hours completed across the two categories.

Program of Study

The table below outlines the typical sequence of coursework, research, and clinical training required for the MD-PhD dual degree, including important program milestones. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Prior to Year 1		Credit Hours / Milestone
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 1
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year One Curriculum ²		44
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 2
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ²		40
Summer
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
Year 3
Fall
MBIO 606	Seminar	1
MBIO 619	Research	6
MBIO 619	Research ³	2
or MBIO 622	Immunity to Microbes and Tumor
Spring
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
MBIO 606	Seminar	1
MBIO 623	Scientific Writing and Hypothesis Testing	2
MBIO 619	Research	1
MBIO 619	Research ³	4
or MBIO 687	Microbial Pathogenesis
or MBIO 621	Advanced Immunology: Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Summer
MBIO 619	Research	6
PhD Qualifying Exam		Passed
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
Years 4 - 5/6
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy ⁴	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Year 6/7
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ²		55
Year 7/8
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ²		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Dual degree students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program before the first year of medical school and in the Summer Research Scholar Program between the first and second years. These experiences are not required but are strongly recommended to help prepare students for biomedical research. More information is available on the School of Medicine Research Programs website.
²: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
³: Students may substitute up to four (4) additional credit hours of upper‑level MBIO electives for four (4) credit hours of Research (MBIO 619). All students must complete a minimum of two (2) credit hours of upper‑level MBIO electives and a minimum of thirteen (13) credit hours of Research (MBIO 619), with a total of twenty‑one (21) credit hours completed across the two categories.
⁴: Students must remain enrolled in Doctoral Candidacy (DOCT 600) until they successfully defend their dissertation. This stage typically takes two (2) to three (3) years, depending on the scope of the student’s research study.

Contact

MD-PhD Program Co‑Directors:

Dr. Maxwell Boakye, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS — (502) 407‑3276
Dr. Kenneth Palmer, PhD — (502) 852-1339
Email: mdphd@louisville.edu

Department of Microbiology and Immunology Director of Graduate Studies:

Dr. Matthew Lawrenz, PhD — (502) 852-5548
Email: matt.lawrenz@louisville.edu

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics

Unit(s): School of Medicine
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and BIOCPHD

Program Overview

The MD‑PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics prepares physician‑scientists to investigate the molecular mechanisms that shape human health and disease. The program integrates pre‑clinical medical study, advanced research training in biochemistry and molecular genetics, dissertation work, and clinical rotations. Students gain experience in laboratory investigation and patient care, supported by close faculty mentoring and access to extensive research and clinical resources. This dual‑degree option benefits students interested in careers that combine medical practice with molecular and genetic research, academic medicine, or innovation in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and other research settings. Students receive full tuition remission, a competitive stipend, and health insurance during the graduate research phase. For more information on program benefits and examples of student research and publications, visit the MD‑PhD Program website.

Admission

Current UofL medical students may apply after completing the second year of medical school by contacting the MD-PhD Program Director.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy requirements for the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in approximately seven (7) to eight (8) years with a minimum of 193.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements
The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
PhD Requirements ¹
BIOC 648	Journal Club in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics	2
BIOC 619	Research ²	14-15
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
BIOC 606	Biochemistry Seminar	1
BIOC 620	Scientific Method and Grant Writing	2
Upper-Level BIOC Elective ²		3-4
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: A passing score on the USMLE Step 1 examination substitutes for the PhD qualifying exam requirement, as the exam demonstrates competency in foundational biomedical sciences comparable to the program’s qualifying assessment. In addition, the learning outcomes of Clinical Anatomy, Development, Examination and Neurosciences (IDEP 811) and Molecular Basis of Life, Defense, and Disease (IDEP 812) align with the learning competencies embedded in many required and elective courses in the PhD curriculum. Completion of these courses therefore fulfills a substantial portion of the core course requirements for the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics.
²: Students must complete at least three (3) credit hours in upper-level BIOC electives. To remain enrolled in the required nine (9) credit hours for full‑time status during the fall and spring semesters, students may complete one (1) additional credit hour of BIOC 619 Research if the upper-level BIOC electives selected carry only three (3) credit hours instead of four (4).

Program of Study

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Prior to Year 1		Credit Hours / Milestone
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 1
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year One Curriculum ²		44
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 2
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ²		40
Summer
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
Year 3
Fall
BIOC 648	Journal Club in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics	1
BIOC 619	Research	4
Upper-Level BIOC Elective ³		4
Spring
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
BIOC 648	Journal Club in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics	1
BIOC 606	Biochemistry Seminar	1
BIOC 620	Scientific Method and Grant Writing	2
BIOC 619	Research	4
Summer
BIOC 619	Research	6
PhD Dissertation Research Proposal		Successfully Defended
Years 4 - 5/6
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy ⁴	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Year 6/7
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ²		55
Year 7/8
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ²		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Dual degree students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program before the first year of medical school and in the Summer Research Scholar Program between the first and second years. These experiences are not required but are strongly recommended to help prepare students for biomedical research. More information is available on the School of Medicine Research Programs website.
²: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
³: Students must complete at least three (3) credit hours in upper-level BIOC electives. To remain enrolled in the required nine (9) credit hours for full‑time status during the fall and spring semesters, students may complete one (1) additional credit hour of BIOC 619 Research if the upper-level BIOC electives selected carry only three (3) credit hours instead of four (4).
⁴: Students must remain enrolled in Doctoral Candidacy (DOCT 600) until they successfully defend their dissertation. This stage typically takes two (2) to three (3) years, depending on the scope of the student’s research study.

Contact

MD-PhD Program Co‑Directors:

Dr. Maxwell Boakye, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS — (502) 407‑3276
Dr. Kenneth Palmer, PhD — (502) 852-1339
Email: mdphd@louisville.edu

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Director of Graduate Studies:

Dr. Brian Clem, PhD — (502-852-8427)
Email: brian.clem@louisville.edu

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physiology

Unit(s): School of Medicine
Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and PHZBPHD

Program Overview

The MD‑PhD in Physiology prepares physician‑scientists to investigate the biological mechanisms that underlie human health and disease. The program integrates pre‑clinical medical study, advanced research training in the Department of Physiology, dissertation work, and clinical rotations. Students gain experience in laboratory investigation and patient care, supported by close faculty mentoring and access to extensive research and clinical resources. This dual‑degree option benefits students interested in careers that combine medical practice with research into fundamental physiological processes that guide the development of new diagnostics and therapies. Students receive full tuition remission, a stipend, and health insurance during the graduate research phase. For more information on program benefits and examples of student research and publications from the dual‑degree program, visit the MD‑PhD Program website.

Admission

Current UofL medical students may apply after completing the second year of medical school by contacting the MD-PhD Program Director.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑PhD in Physiology dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy requirements for the PhD in Physiology when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in approximately seven (7) to eight (8) years with a minimum of 193.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the PhD in Physiology, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD‑PhD Program Co‑Directors to develop an individual plan of study.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements
The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
PhD Requirements ¹
PHZB 609	Integrated Systemic Physiology	3
PHZB 619	Research	14
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
PHZB 617	Seminar in Physiology and Biophysics	1
PHZB 611	Advanced Human Cardiovascular Physiology	2
PHZB 616	Selected Topics in Physiology and Biophysics (Statistics)	3
PhD Qualifying Exam		Passed
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Many courses in the MD curriculum, together with successful completion of the USMLE Step 1 examination, demonstrate attainment of the learning outcomes associated with several required PhD in Physiology courses. Because this prior training provides competency equivalent to completing these courses, dual MD‑PhD students are not required to enroll in the following PhD courses:

BIOC 645, BIOC 667, PHZB 625, PHZB 640, PHZB 641, PHZB 642, and PHZB 643.

Program of Study

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Prior to Year 1		Credit Hours / Milestone
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 1
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year One Curriculum ²		44
Summer
Summer Biomedical Research ¹
Year 2
Fall - Spring
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ²		40
Summer
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
Year 3
Fall
PHZB 609	Integrated Systemic Physiology	3
PHZB 619	Research	6
Spring
BIOC 630	Responsible Conduct of Research: Survival Skills and Research Ethics	1
PHZB 617	Seminar in Physiology and Biophysics	1
PHZB 611	Advanced Human Cardiovascular Physiology	2
PHZB 616	Selected Topics in Physiology and Biophysics (Statistics)	3
PHZB 619	Research	2
Summer
PHZB 619	Research	6
PhD Qualifying Exam		Passed
Years 4 - 5/6
DOCT 600	Doctoral Candidacy ³	0
PhD Dissertation		Successfully Defended
Year 6/7
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ²		55
Year 7/8
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ²		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
Minimum Total Hours		193.5

¹: Dual degree students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Program before the first year of medical school and in the Summer Research Scholar Program between the first and second years. These experiences are not required but are strongly recommended to help prepare students for biomedical research. More information is available on the School of Medicine Research Programs website.
²: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
³: Students must remain enrolled in Doctoral Candidacy (DOCT 600) until they successfully defend their dissertation. This stage typically takes two (2) to three (3) years, depending on the scope of the student’s research study.

Contact

MD-PhD Program Co‑Directors:

Dr. Maxwell Boakye, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS — (502) 407‑3276
Dr. Kenneth Palmer, PhD — (502) 852-1339
Email: mdphd@louisville.edu

Department of Physiology Director of Graduate Studies

Dr. Cynthia Metz, PhD — (502) 852-7562
Email: cynthia.metz@louisville.edu

Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Unit(s): School of Medicine and College of Business
School of Medicine Program Webpage | College of Business Program Webpage
Academic Plan Code(s): MED_MD and BA_MBA

Program Overview

Admission

Dual Degree Requirements

Program of Study

Contact Information

Program Overview

The MD‑MBA dual degree program provides medical students with combined training in clinical practice and business management. Students complete the MD curriculum alongside the MBA—gaining skills in finance, operations, leadership, and management. MBA electives are waived because the MD curriculum includes competencies in communication, leadership, and related areas of business administration, allowing both degrees to be completed more efficiently than pursuing them separately. The program prepares future physicians to manage their own practices—many of which operate as small businesses—and to assume leadership roles in hospitals, health systems, biotechnology and medical device companies, and other health care organizations. Graduates are equipped to deliver high‑quality patient care while guiding the strategic and operational functions of the organizations they serve.

Admission

Admission to the MD‑MBA dual degree program requires acceptance into both the School of Medicine and the College of Business. Students must first apply to the School of Medicine through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), including submission of MCAT scores, and be admitted as MD students. Eligible students then apply to the MBA program during the second year of medical school. Students admitted into the MD-MBA dual degree program are responsible for MBA tuition and are subject to MBA academic policies while enrolled in the MBA program. Prospective and current MD students should contact the School of Medicine MD‑MBA Program Director or Associate Program Director for additional information. To learn more about the MBA program and its admission process, students may contact the College of Business Graduate Programs Recruiting Manager.

Dual Degree Requirements

The MD‑MBA dual degree is delivered through an integrated curriculum that allows students to complete requirements for both degrees in fewer total credit hours than would be required if the degrees were completed separately. This structure is made possible by allowing selected courses and training components from the MD curriculum to satisfy electives for the MBA when they meet the same learning outcomes. In this format, the dual degree may be completed in five (5) years with a minimum of 205.5 total credit hours. Students must also complete all remaining degree requirements for both the MD and the MBA, except where those requirements are modified by the approved dual degree structure. Students should consult with the MD-MBA Program Director or Associate Program Director to learn more.

Minimum Credit Hours and Milestone Requirements

The table below summarizes the minimum credit hours and milestones typically required for the dual degree.

Course List
Code	Title	Hours
Dual Degree Requirements		Credit Hours / Milestone
MD Requirements		169.5
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
MBA Requirements ¹		36
Minimum Total Hours		205.5

¹: Dual MD‑MBA students have the nine (9) credit hours of Special Topics in Business (MBA 680) waived. They must complete all remaining required courses in the Full‑Time MBA curriculum.

Program of Study

The table below outlines the typical sequence of coursework and clinical training required for the MD-MBA dual degree, including important program milestones. Students should consult with the MD-MBA Program Director or Associate Program Director to learn more.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1		Hours
Medical School Year One Curriculum ¹		44
	Hours	44
Year 2
Medical School Year Two Curriculum ¹		40
Apply for Admission to MBA Program
United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1		Passed
	Hours	40
Year 3
Full-time MBA Curriculum ²		36
	Hours	36
Year 4
Medical School Year Three Curriculum - Core Clerkships ¹		55
	Hours	55
Year 5
Medical School Year Four Curriculum - Clinical Rotations ¹		30.5
Residency Interviews		Completed
	Hours	30.5
	Minimum Total Hours	205.5

¹: Find detailed information about the medical school curriculum in the School of Medicine Bulletin.
²: Dual MD‑MBA students have the nine (9) credit hours of Special Topics in Business (MBA 680) waived. They must complete all remaining required courses in the Full‑Time MBA curriculum.

Contact

MD-MBA Program Director:

Dr. In Kim, MD, MBA — in.kim@louisville.edu

MD-MBA Associate Program Director:

Dr. Beth Spurlin, MD, PhD, MBA — beth.spurlin@louisville.edu

College of Business Graduate Programs Recruiting Manager:

Melanie Higgs — melanie.higgs@louisville.edu

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