Dec 3, 1997
Rush University Medical Center Program
Overview
The Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at Rush University Medical Center is recognized as one of the premier orthopaedic training programs in the United States. This program provides residents with comprehensive exposure to the full spectrum of orthopaedics, supported by a faculty renowned for their expertise across various subspecialties. The program emphasizes the development of both clinical and surgical competence while integrating clinical and basic science research into the education process, critical for effective patient management.
Residents in this program are equipped with extensive experience in diagnosing, managing, and treating a wide range of orthopaedic pathologies. This comprehensive training prepares graduates for successful careers in private practice, academic medicine, or further fellowship training.
Program Highlights
Several noteworthy aspects distinguish the Rush University Orthopaedic Surgery Residency:
- Ranked as the #5 orthopaedic surgery program nationally and #1 in Illinois according to U.S. News & World Report.
- Students learn from a world-class faculty, many of whom hold or have held leadership positions in prestigious orthopaedic societies such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS).
- Opportunities to serve as team physicians for professional sports organizations including the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, and more.
- Availability of numerous clinical and basic science research opportunities.
- Strong fellowship placement rates, ensuring residents match into top programs across all orthopaedic subspecialties.
- Access to state-of-the-art surgical simulation equipment and multiple arthroscopy skills labs throughout the training period.
- An extensive intern skills curriculum, which includes cadaver anatomy labs, enhancing anatomical knowledge and procedural skills.
Training and Rotations
The training structure within this residency emphasizes a balance of hands-on experience and academic learning. Rotations are designed to foster not only technical surgical skills but also to develop critical thinking and leadership qualities in residents. Each year, trainees are exposed to different subspecialties in orthopaedic surgery and are encouraged to engage in collaborative care settings.
Research Opportunities
Research is a cornerstone of the residency experience at Rush University, with numerous opportunities for residents to engage in clinical and translational research. Residents are encouraged to undertake projects that can contribute to improvements in patient care and the advancement of orthopaedic knowledge.
Competitiveness
The program is known to be highly competitive, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds. It welcomes applications from both foreign medical graduates and Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) students, reflecting its commitment to a diverse training environment.
Special Application Requirements
Applicants should note that specific requirements may apply, including preferences regarding the year of graduation or limitations on failed STEP exams. Ensuring compliance with these criteria is essential for prospective candidates seeking admission.
Visa Support
The Rush University Orthopaedic Surgery Residency program provides support for international medical graduates, with sponsorship available for J-1 and H-1B visas. This allows talented applicants from around the world to participate in the program and contribute to its esteemed training environment.
Web sources
SmartPick
Program data
ACGME History [3]
Program
Program Size
5, 5, 5, 5, 5 (5 years) [1]
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation
(Effective: January 9, 2026)
Composition [2]
--
Training
Fellowship Rate:100% [2]
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:1.5X [1]
Residents Career Path [2]
Quality of Life
First Year Paid Sick Leave: 90 days [1]
First Year Paid Vacation: 20 days [1]
First Year Salary: $64,383 [1]
First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 24 hours [1]
First Year Average Weekly Hours: 50 hours [1]
Admission
USMLE Step 2 Score: --
Visa Sponsorship:--
YOG Cutoff:1 [1]
Race / Ethnicity
No race data available.
Gender
No gender data available.
Incoming Schools
No incoming school data available.
Rotation Duration by Site
Benchmarks
Match & stats
2026 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights
No 2026 Applicant & Interview Insights available for this program.
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]
No data available for USMLE
STEP 2 CK Score
COMLEX Level 2 Score [2]
No data available for COMLEX
Level 2 Score
Match History [4]
Roster
Publications
50 Publications (5 yr)
Peer-reviewed output from faculty and residents, last 5 years
50 Publications (5 yr)
Corrosion-Related Failures in Modular Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Narrative Review of Rare Published Clinical Cases.
Do Hip Precautions Matter After Posterior Approach Total Hip Arthroplasty With Capsular Repair? A Randomized Control Trial.
Location
Chicago, IL [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
Ready to Find Your Ideal Residency Program?
Get a personalized, data-driven program list built around your scores, experiences, and visa needs.
Nearby programs
Orthopaedic surgery Programs Near Chicago, IL
Other specialties near Chicago, IL
References
1. Freida - https://freida.ama-assn.org/program/2601631174
2. Residency Explorer - https://www.residencyexplorer.org/Program/GetByIdWithMedicalSpecialty/1e52b1f2-3de7-7477-37f1-77258fe550fb
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=160XX00US1714000
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