Applied Anatomy/MD

Human Arm and Torso of an Anatomical Model

MS/MD

About the Program

In just four years, you can earn two degrees from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, the best medical school in Ohio and one of the top 16 medical schools in the country.

Case Western Reserve's Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Master of Science (MS) in Applied Anatomy dual-degree program will help you gain a deep understanding of the structure and development of the human body—and give you unparalleled opportunities to learn advanced anatomy in a clinical context.

Our program is an excellent way for MD students to distinguish themselves from other candidates when applying to and interviewing for competitive residencies and fellowships.

What to Expect

Our joint MD/MS program is suited for students seeking advanced training in the anatomical sciences, as it will prepare you for an anatomy-focused speciality such as surgery, pathology or radiology.

You’ll have hands-on cadaver dissection experiences and you’ll take classes such historiology, neuroanatomy and embryology, completing the anatomical sciences core curriculum during your first two years of medical school (and an advanced surgical anatomy class in your fourth year). Additionally, you’ll complete an anatomy-oriented independent research project. And, with more than three dozen elective options, you can tailor your schedule to fit your needs and interests.

Students typically begin the 30-hour master’s degree program in the fall of the first year of medical school.

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Beyond the Classroom

Extend your training beyond traditional classroom and laboratory settings through independent readings and educational or research projects. You can enhance your resume and reinforce what you learn by working in a research lab, serving as a teaching assistant or taking part in hands-on opportunities. With close proximity to world-renowned hospitals including Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth Medical Center, Louis Stokes VA Medical Center and University Hospitals, you'll have your choice of ways to volunteer, shadow and connect with the local health care community.

By the Numbers

5:1

faculty-to-student ratio

average cohort size

Tier 1

medical school for research, U.S. News & World Report

private medical school in Ohio, U.S. News & World Report

years to complete two degrees

African American teenage boy learns about the human heart while in biology lab. His teacher is helping him with an assignment. They are examining a human heart model.

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Learn More About the School of Medicine

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Explore Our Core Courses

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Browse Our Electives

Admission Requirements

Our program thrives when we have students with diverse perspectives and a range of educational, professional and life experiences. We look forward to learning more about you!

The application process requires:

, including a personal statement
$50 application fee
Bachelor’s and/or master’s degree from an accredited institution (either already complete, or will be complete before you enroll)
Students must be accepted into the MD program in order to apply to this dual degree program.
Your unofficial transcripts
Current resume/CV
Personal Statement (optional) - This should be a one-page description of your career goals and how the MS in Applied Anatomy will help you achieve them.
Two letters of recommendation, which may be the same letters submitted with student’s medical school application
International applicants: Results of TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE