Jan 12, 2001
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU Health) Program
Overview
The program in Neurological Surgery at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in Portland is designed to train residents in the advanced techniques and principles of neurosurgery. The program emphasizes comprehensive education and facilitates the development of surgical and clinical expertise necessary for successful practice in this challenging specialty.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum is structured to encompass a variety of clinical and surgical experiences, covering key areas such as cranial surgery, spinal surgery, neurotrauma, and critical care. Residents participate in both clinical rotations and educational seminars that enhance their knowledge of neurological disorders and management strategies.
Rotations
Residents rotate through multiple specialties within neurosurgery and related fields such as neuroradiology, neurology, and rehabilitation medicine. These rotations are typically based at OHSU Medical Center and affiliated hospitals, providing a rich environment where residents can learn from experienced faculty and engage with a diverse patient population.
Research Opportunities
The program encourages residents to participate in research to further their understanding of neurological pathophysiology and treatment modalities. There are ample opportunities for residents to engage in basic science, clinical, and translational research, enabling them to contribute to the advancement of neurosurgical knowledge.
Unique Aspects of the Program
The program prides itself on its commitment to mentorship and the development of professional skills. This includes collaboration with leading experts in the field, as well as opportunities to attend national conferences and workshops. Additional resources are available for residents to pursue specialized training in areas such as stereotactic surgery, endovascular techniques, and pediatric neurosurgery.
Training Sites
Training sites include OHSU’s main campus and affiliated facilities across the Portland metro area. These sites are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and resources necessary for comprehensive neurosurgical training.
Visa Support and Sponsorship
The program offers visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs). It is crucial for applicants to inquire about the specific types of visas that may be sponsored, typically involving J-1 and H-1B visa categories.
Competitiveness
Admission to the program is highly competitive. The selection process evaluates candidates based on their academic credentials, clinical experience, and personal interviews. The program is known to be friendly toward Graduates of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and IMGs, reflecting a commitment to fostering diversity within the resident cohort.
Application Requirements
Applicants are generally required to have completed their medical education and possess a valid medical degree. There may be specific stipulations regarding the year of graduation and limitations on failed examinations such as the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) steps.
Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3 (7 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 22, 2026)
Composition [2]
Training
Fellowship Rate:80% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:1X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 15 days [1]
First Year Paid Vacation: 28 days [1]
First Year Salary: $73,681 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 24 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 72 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: 236–274 [2]
Visa Sponsorship:H1B, J1, F1 [2]
YOG Cutoff:3 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
Gender
Incoming Schools
19%
Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine
19%
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
14%
New York Medical College
10%
Emory University School of Medicine
* Multiple schools share the same admissions rate.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
Signals
Hometown State
Medical School State
Step 1 Fail
Step 2 Fail
Applicant Type
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.
USMLE STEP 2 CK Score [2]
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
No data available for COMLEX
Level 2 Score
Match History [4]
Roster
Publications
30 Publications (5 yr)
Peer-reviewed output from faculty and residents, last 5 years
30 Publications (5 yr)
Emergent Carotid Angioplasty or Stenting for Internal Carotid-Middle Cerebral Artery Tandem Occlusion Strokes: Real-World Outcomes in a Nationwide Cohort.
Association Between Age and Outcomes for Children Undergoing Tethered Cord Release: A National Study.
Location
Portland, OR [5]
- Above the national average
- Below the national average
- Similar to the national average
Housing — Rental prices [6]
Rental prices
Crime — All violent offences [7]
Rate per 100,000 residents
FAQ
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Nearby programs
Neurological surgery Programs Near Portland, OR
Other specialties near Portland, OR
References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/1604021070
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/9b240ad8-5da5-0aee-0345-6172fec1526c
3. ACGME - Accreditation Data System (ADS) - https://apps.acgme.org/ads/Public/Programs/Search
4. NRMP Results and Data: 2022-2026 Main Residency Match - https://www.nrmp.org/match-data/2026/03/program-results-2022-2026/
5. United States Census Bureau - https://data.census.gov/profile/City,_VS?g=010XX00US
6. Zillow Research - Observed Rent Index (ZORI) - https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
7. FBI - Crime/Law Enforcement Stats (Uniform Crime Reporting Program) - https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr