The dual degree program is completed in 5 years.

• The MD curriculum is spread over 4 years of study (years 1-3 and year 5).
• To obtain the MS-HPE degree, students must earn an additional 32 credit hours.
  • 6 credits during the first summer
  • 26 credits in year 4 (the “step-out” year)

The MS-HPE requires completion of a Capstone 3-credit course and dissemination of a rigorous, educationally focused research project, supervised by an MD and HPE mentor. Successful completion of the HPE Capstone will satisfy the Scholarly Project requirement of the MD FRCT course. 

Below is a sample schedule for the 5-year MD/MS-HPE Program.

• Please visit the Office of Medical Education website for the most up-to-date schedule of the MD program.
• Please contact the HPE Program director, Dr. Karen Gordes, for the most up-to-date schedule of the HPE Program.

Prospective students can apply to this program through the School of Medicine application process.

Current students may also apply after they have matriculated as MD-only candidates. To initiate the admissions process, current medical students must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) to the Office of Student Research by December 15 of their first year of medical school.

Submit the LOI via email–

To: Dr. Rick Matteson (DMatteson@som.umaryland.edu)
Cc: Fiama Romero (FRomero@som.umaryland.edu)

Tuition and fees for the MS-HPE are charged per credit hour. Students may be eligible for a GTA during the step-out year, which would provide a stipend, tuition remission, and healthcare benefits.

Learn more about the MS in Health Professions Education.

Karen L. Gordes, PhD, PT, DScPT
MS-HPE Program Director
Karen.Gordes@umaryland.edu 

Rick Matteson, PhD
Dual Degree Program Director
DMatteson@som.umaryland.edu