Timelines

Timelines

The Melbourne MD-PhD is not an accelerated pathway. The minimum duration of the MD-PhD pathway is seven years, comprised of four years MD (which may include concurrent part-time enrolment in the PhD in the later years) plus three additional full-time years PhD. MD-PhD students will find however that the research training components of the MD will have synergies with the PhD which will, in turn, inform and enhance their MD experience.

Offering flexibility through a variety of entry points during the MD allows students to join the MD-PhD program at the time most appropriate for them. A unique feature of the Melbourne MD-PhD approach is that each student's pathway is individually tailored in accordance with their needs, preferences, and life circumstances.

Example pathway 1: MD-PhD pathway, with intercalation after MD1

This pathway is recommended for students who have completed Honours or equivalent prior to commencement of the MD.

Example pathway 2: MD-PhD pathway with intercalation after MD2

This pathway is recommended for students who have not completed Honours or equivalent prior to commencement of the MD.

Example pathway 3: MD-PhD as part of a whole career path

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Integration into the MD

As part of the MD-PhD, if required, students will be exempt from enrolling in Discovery subjects in year 3 and 4 of their course, and can use this time to ensure timely completion of the PhD. This will allow for maximum flexibility and support toward successful completion of both the PhD and the MD.