Residents in the Urology program at Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School receive a comprehensive residency training that spans a total of six years. This includes two years of pre-specialty training in General Surgery, six to twelve months dedicated specifically to research, and a structured clinical experience in Urology.
Training Structure
Pre-specialty Training (PGY1 & PGY2)
The first two years are focused on intense clinical exposure to General Surgery and its subspecialties. Residents rotate through multiple clinical settings, including the University Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, and East Orange Veterans Affairs Medical Center. This diverse experience involves comprehensive patient care, covering a broad range of surgical practices from trauma to plastic surgery, and ensures robust foundational skills in surgical techniques and patient management 1.
Clinical Urology Training (PGY3 to PGY6)
First Year of Urology (PGY3)
Second Year (PGY4)
Research Year (PGY5)
Chief Year (PGY6)
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to promote a thorough understanding of all areas of urology, supported by a well-defined educational approach combining didactic sessions, daily patient evaluations, and progressive responsibility 4. Residents benefit from a dedicated simulation lab to develop technical skills safely without risking patient safety, further enhancing learning outcomes 8.
Research Opportunities
The program places a strong emphasis on academic production and encourages residents to involve themselves in high-quality research that leads to publication. Mentorship from experienced faculty aids residents in navigating research activities effectively 1.
Training Sites
The Urology residency training occurs across multiple distinguished institutions: University Hospital, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Jersey City Medical Center, and the East Orange Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Each location offers unique learning opportunities and patient demographics 1.
Visa Support and Competitiveness
The program is competitive in nature, accepting applications from international medical graduates, though they must have U.S. clinical experiences. The program does support J-1 visas for foreign medical graduates . This makes it relatively friendly to IMG candidates, although achieving placements can still involve strong academic performance in necessary examinations like the USMLE. Applicants are typically required to have graduated from medical school within five years prior to applying 8.
Application Requirements
To apply, candidates need to submit several documents, including three letters of recommendation, a current CV, a personal statement, and score reports. A maximum of two failed USMLE Step exams is permitted, which reflects the program's understanding of the challenges faced by some candidates while still maintaining competitive standards for admission 8.
Alumni Career Paths
The residency program has a solid history of alumni succeeding in diverse national positions after graduation. They often go on to take roles in esteemed institutions or further fellowships 4.
Teaching Hospitals
Rutgers Health's primary hospital, the University Hospital, is known for its advanced medical services, including a Level 1 Trauma Center and a robust liver transplant program. Other training sites contribute to a rich, well-rounded exposure to various surgical disciplines and patient populations 8.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,660First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
12 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Newark, NJ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Newark, NJ
Newark, NJ is a city rich in history and culture. Here are some aspects to consider about living in Newark:
- Crime Rate and Safety: Newark has a reputation for having a higher crime rate compared to other cities. While efforts have been made to improve safety, it's important to be vigilant.
- Fun Activities: Newark offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is home to the Newark Museum, New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and Prudential Center.
- Climate: Newark experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Newark is a diverse city, with a population that includes a mix of African American, Hispanic, and Caucasian residents.
- Education: Newark is home to several universities and colleges, including Rutgers University and New Jersey Institute of Technology.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Newark is relatively high compared to national averages, especially in terms of housing costs.
- Proximity to Major Cities: Newark is approximately 9 miles from New York City, which can be reached in about 30-40 minutes by car (depending on traffic). New York City offers additional opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Cultural diversity, proximity to New York City, educational opportunities.
- Cons: Higher crime rate, higher cost of living.
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