DO/MS in Cancer Biology

The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)/Master of Science (MS) in Cancer Biology is a dual-degree program designed for osteopathic medical students who are interested in pursuing careers in cancer research. This program, offered through a partnership with The Wistar Institute, provides advanced training in cancer biology while allowing students to earn both degrees.

Program Overview

The DO/MS in Cancer Biology program helps students prepare for residency programs with a research emphasis, and for careers in academic medicine, oncology, and translational research.

The DO/MS in Cancer Biology integrates a full year of laboratory research into the osteopathic medical curriculum. Between their third and fourth years of medical school, DO students complete one year of dedicated research at The Wistar Institute, a leading biomedical research center focused on oncology, immunology, and vaccine development. Key components of the program include:

A rigorous curriculum focused on basic cancer biology and molecular mechanisms of cancer.
One year of full-time laboratory research at The Wistar Institute following the third year of medical school.
Development of a research plan.
Completion of a written master’s thesis and an oral defense before a faculty committee.

Learning Objectives

Graduates of the DO/MS in Cancer Biology program will be able to:

Design and execute hypothesis-driven research in cancer biology.
Analyze and interpret experimental data in the context of oncological science.
Communicate research findings effectively through written reports and oral presentations.
Translate scientific insights into clinical strategies for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

How to Apply

Interested students may apply during their second year of the DO program. Admission is competitive and based on academic performance, research interests, and overall fit with the program’s goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

Second-year DO students in good academic standing at PCOM, PCOM Georgia, or PCOM South Georgia. Please note, students at PCOM Georgia or PCOM South Georgia must be willing to relocate to Philadelphia for their research year.

When does the MS research year occur?

The research year takes place between the third and fourth years of the DO program.

Where is the research conducted?

Research will be conducted at The Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, PA.

What is required for the thesis?

Thesis requirements include:

A formal research proposal
One year of full-time research
A written thesis
An oral defense

Does the program delay graduation?

Yes. The program extends the DO curriculum by one year.

What career paths does this program support?

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academic medicine, oncology, and translational research, and are highly competitive for residency programs with a research emphasis.

Is financial aid available for the additional year?

PCOM is committed to helping students maximize funding sources and minimize student debt. Visit our Office of Financial Aid section to learn about cost of attendance, types of aid available and how to apply for financial aid.

Can I publish or present my research?

Yes. Students are strongly encouraged to submit abstracts to scientific meetings and pursue publication of their findings.