The goal of these training programs is to produce physician scientists who can translate laboratory discoveries into effective treatments for patients.
[1][2][3] The program has its origins in the non-NIH funded MD-PhD training offered at the nation's research-centric medical schools.
An early dual-degree program began at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in 1956.
[citation needed] Interviews for admissions at MSTPs tend to focus on the applicant's career goals and past experiences in scientific research.
However many MSTPs offer non-MSTP grant funded positions, allowing for non-citizens and non-legalized nationals to be accepted into the MD-PhD program at that particular school.
Furthermore, many non-MSTP medical schools have MD-PhD programs that are not supported by the NIH but offer similar training opportunities and grant stipends.
{{[8]}} Several MSTPs allow for the PhD portion of the MSTP to be completed outside the home university at an allied institution.