Cooper Medical School of Rowan University/Cooper University Hospital Program

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University and Cooper University Hospital aims to cultivate well-rounded physicians committed to patient-centered care. This program emphasizes its mission to serve, heal, and educate, aligning with the overarching goals of Cooper University Health Care to improve patient outcomes, maximize value, and enhance overall well-being for both patients and healthcare workers.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum is designed to be immersive and experiential, centered around a 4+2 structure. This means that residents will spend four weeks on inpatient rotations followed by two weeks dedicated to ambulatory care, electives, or other types of psychological renewal. This innovative approach reduces fatigue, allowing residents a more balanced lifestyle and ensuring they engage fully with each learning environment.

During training, residents rotate through various clinical settings encountering diverse patient populations. They gain vital exposure to complex medical cases in a setting recognized as a Level 1 Trauma Center and a tertiary referral center for Southern New Jersey. The program’s clinical training encompasses essential specialties such as cardiology, gastroenterology, and critical care, ensuring a broad and comprehensive understanding of internal medicine.

Educational Experience

The program incorporates many learning modalities including didactic sessions, simulation training, and bedside teaching to enhance clinical skills. Faculty mentors guide residents through critical, analytical thought processes necessary for effective patient diagnosis and treatment. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of both technical ability and communication in providing compassionate care.

Wellness Initiatives

Cooper’s Internal Medicine Program prioritizes resident wellness through a culture that promotes work-life balance alongside rigorous academic training. The structured schedule allows residents to have time off on weekends, ensuring an opportunity for personal activities and self-care initiatives. In addition, the program has a dedicated wellness committee which organizes various activities aimed at fostering camaraderie and ensuring a supportive environment.

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research endeavors throughout their training, supported by faculty known for their mentoring abilities. They participate in organized research events and workshops, enabling them to understand the full research process from developing hypotheses to publishing findings. The program maintains a robust Quality Improvement and Patient Safety curriculum, allowing residents to be involved in meaningful projects aimed at enhancing patient care.

Diversity and Inclusion

Cooper is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within its residency. The DEI-B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) committee works actively to ensure that the residency environment is inclusive for all participants. Mentoring support for those underrepresented in medicine and structured curricular components focused on social determinants of health are integral to the training provided.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program accepts applications from international medical graduates (IMGs) and sponsors J-1 visas, highlighting its inclusive approach to residency training. The residency program is competitive with a holistic review process for applications, aiming to recruit candidates who align well with the program's values and mission.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit their application via the ERAS system. There are specific requirements regarding USMLE/COMLEX exams, with applicants expected to pass on their first attempt. The program particularly seeks graduates who have gained recent clinical experience.