Johns Hopkins University Program

The Johns Hopkins Dermatology Residency Program offers a robust and comprehensive training experience designed to cultivate the skills necessary for effective dermatological practice. Located at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, which is an ACGME-accredited institution, the residency duration spans three years, preparing residents to provide competent and compassionate care in various dermatologic disciplines including medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

One of the program's hallmark features is its commitment to a balanced educational approach that integrates patient care with didactic learning. The program propels residents to master the diagnosis and treatment of dermatological conditions, striving to foster the development of the professional, academic, clinical, and technical abilities essential for excellence in dermatology. The core values of the program prioritize excellence and discovery, leadership and integrity, diversity and inclusion, as well as respect and collegiality, reinforcing a constructive learning environment for all participants.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum consists of rotations through various relevant sites to ensure comprehensive exposure to dermatology. Residents are assigned to the Levi Watkins, Jr. Outpatient Center clinic, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center clinic, Pediatric Dermatology division, Greenspring Station Cosmetic Center clinic, Surgery division, Dermatopathology division, as well as inpatient consultations and elective rotations. This diverse clinical exposure is pivotal in enabling residents to cultivate a profound understanding of dermatology and its varied subspecialties.

Research Opportunities

Research plays a fundamental role in the program, with dedicated time allocated weekly for second and third-year residents for research endeavors. Residents are encouraged to collaborate with faculty members to develop research proposals focusing on areas of specialty interest. Current research topics range from assessing cellular responses in dermatopathology to exploring the microbiome's influence on skin diseases, thus contributing to dermatological advancements.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program's unique commitment to fostering future leaders in dermatology is evident in its combined clinical and research training track, known as the 2+2 program. This track allows interested residents to dedicate their final two residency years to engage in mentored research training, which is essential for those aiming for careers as clinician-scientists.

Application Requirements

To apply to the Johns Hopkins Dermatology Residency Program, candidates must have completed an accredited PGY-1 training program in internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, or family practice, or possess a transitional internship that lasts at least one year. Candidates must have passed Step 1 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) prior to application. Additionally, applicants should pass Steps 2 and 3 before commencing residency. Importantly, there is no cutoff score for the USMLE, making the program accessible to a broad range of applicants.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The Department of Dermatology is amenable to the inclusion of international applicants, maintaining an Office of International Services (OIS) to provide resources and information on visa processes. It is crucial to note that while the program does not grant visas directly, it offers the necessary documentation that facilitates the application process for international trainees seeking the appropriate immigration status to participate in the program.

The Johns Hopkins Dermatology Residency Program is notably competitive, with between 550 and 600 applications reviewed annually, and approximately 45 candidates invited for interviews. The program emphasizes a dedication to diversity within its residency cohort, welcoming a range of backgrounds, including those from DO and IMG pathways.

Community Engagement

Emphasizing community engagement, the program’s mission extends beyond academic rigors; it aims to address dermatology needs in a diverse local community through compassionate, evidence-based care. This mission intricately links resident training with real-world clinical challenges, fostering not only professional competence but also personal growth and societal responsibility.