Master of Medical Sciences in Medical Education

Thesis

All Master of Medical Sciences in Medical Education students complete mentored research culminating in a master’s thesis, a 32-credit core requirement (MEDED 711). Through close mentorship, structured milestones, and independent scholarship, students deepen their expertise and often publish their work, advancing their academic and professional paths.

During the first year, students develop and refine their research projects, receiving regular feedback through Works in Progress sessions and meetings with the Program Director. The program helps each student build an individualized mentorship team and a three-member thesis committee (two Harvard faculty and one external expert) that provides guidance throughout the process.

In the second year, students devote 75–80% of their time to their thesis—piloting tools, collecting and analyzing data, and writing their manuscripts. Clear milestones and ongoing mentorship ensure a productive and rigorous research experience, preparing graduates to lead independent medical education research.

The program also supports student scholarship by offering funding for accepted posters or papers at major medical education conferences.