Capitol News

The Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine has become the first osteopathic medical school to join the National Institutes of Health Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP). This achievement highlights MSU's D.O.-Ph.D. Physician-Scientist Training Program as a leading dual-degree program in the United States, recognized for its influence in biomedical research.

MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., remarked on this milestone: “Osteopathic medicine is a cornerstone of Michigan State University’s commitment to advancing health and healing in Michigan and beyond. The inclusion of our D.O.-Ph.D. students in the NIH Medical Scientist Training Program reflects not only the excellence of their dual training but also MSU’s leadership in reimagining the future of medical education and biomedical discovery.”

Joyce deJong, D.O., dean of the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, emphasized the significance: “Earning a place in the NIH’s Medical Scientist Training Program is an extraordinary accomplishment — it’s one of the most competitive designations in academic medicine. That MSU is the first osteopathic institution to achieve this speaks volumes about the strength of our research enterprise and the excellence of osteopathic medicine.”

John Goudreau, D.O.-Ph.D., co-director and associate dean of research at MSU, highlighted how osteopathic physician-scientists contribute uniquely to both research and patient care: “Their work often leads to breakthroughs in therapies, diagnostics and medical technology that improve community health.”

The role of doctors of osteopathic medicine (D.O.s) is expanding across healthcare, with 28% of all U.S. medical students now enrolled in osteopathic programs. In Michigan, more than half of primary care physicians are D.O.s.

In 2024, MSU's D.O.-Ph.D. program became fully funded, providing students with tuition-free education along with living stipends and health benefits. Brian Schutte, Ph.D., co-director of the program noted: “Fully funding our students was a game changer. It makes the path to becoming a physician-scientist more accessible and helps ensure a diverse group of future medical leaders.”

The college has graduated over 8,000 D.O.s including 83 physician-scientists. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked it No. 2 nationally for graduates working in primary care.