Does an MD take more years than a PHD?

Answer 1

It depends on if and what you specialize in for the M.D. and in what you major for the Ph.D. (sciences generally take longer than non-sciences). Also, M.D. training is considered more of a trade/technical training (generally clinical) whereas Ph.D. is scholar training (teaching, research, publishing). For JUST a degree (to get the initials after your name), usu. M.D. is quicker, but additional training is required to join or start a practice..

For more accurate estimates, check the program guides of the schools you're interested in, but very generally speaking, here are some approximate time frames for a practicing professional:

M.D. (6-12 years beyond bachelor's degree)
- 4 yrs for BA, BS, AB (most medical schools require this)
- 4 yrs training for M.D.
- 2-8 yrs in specialty
- 1-2 yrs internship
- 1-3 yrs residency

Ph.D. (6-10 years beyond bachelor's)
- 4 yrs BA, BS, AB
- 2-3 yrs MA, MS
- 3-8 yrs Ph.D.
- 2-4 yrs postdoc

MD./Ph.D - available program in some schools, usu. research program
- 4 yrs BA, BS, AB
- 6 yrs M.D./Ph.D.
- 1-2 years internship
- 2-4 yrs postdoc

Best of Luck!!!

Answer 2

No. You get an MD after four years of medical school, and most Ph.D. programs are scheduled to take four years too. However, MDs who want to become specialists can spend many more years in residencies to reach their goals (but they are already MDs when they start that process). Ph.Ds may take much longer to finish their dissertations (which would mean that it takes longer to take the Ph.D. than the M.D.), and then after getting the Ph.D., in some fields people take a post-doc appointment.

By the way, the Ph.D. is considered to be a higher degree than the M.D., something that many people don't realize.

Answer 3

Neniaf's answer is perfect - Stick with it.

All the best,

-David :-) (soon to be a Ph.D. student!!!)