Temple University Hospital Program

Overview of the Urology Residency Program

The program offers a comprehensive five-year urologic residency training based primarily at Temple University Hospital and Fox Chase Cancer Center. Notably, the residency program has expanded from three to four residents annually beginning in the 2023-2024 academic year. This expansion, approved by ACGME, reflects a significant growth in the department's capabilities and resources. Candidates will benefit from a group of nationally and internationally recognized faculty, many of whom are fellowship-trained in areas such as urologic oncology, robotic surgery, endourology, trauma/reconstruction, pediatric urology, female pelvic medicine, and gender-affirming surgery.

Curriculum Structure

The training curriculum involves a progressive depth of clinical duties and surgical experience as residents advance through various stages. Initially, trainees will engage in tasks commensurate with their clinical expertise and surgical skills.

Residents undertake unique rotations across five sites that provide specialized training environments:

• Temple University Hospital: Focuses on general urology, andrology, gender-affirming surgery, urologic oncology, reconstruction, and neurourology.
• Fox Chase Cancer Center: Dedicated to urologic oncology and reconstruction.
• Jeanes Campus: Offers general urology, endourology, and other specialties.
• Chestnut Hill Hospital: Covers general urology and andrology, along with endourology and FPMRS.
• St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children: Pediatric urology rotation that further diversifies training.

Yearly Training Breakdown

PGY-1 Year

The first year consists of six months in General Surgery, followed by six months in Urology. Interns gain hands-on experience in acute surgical care and post-operative management of urological patients, which provides an essential foundation for subsequent years of training.

PGY-2 Year

The second-year curriculum broadens outpatient urologic care exposure and includes minor open and endourology procedures, equipping residents to manage consults and patient triage effectively.

PGY-3 Year

This year introduces residents to advanced endourologic techniques, with substantial surgical responsibilities and exposure to robotic surgical training.

PGY-4 Year

Fourth-year residents take on chief resident responsibilities, gaining increased autonomy and mentoring junior trainees while mastering complex surgical procedures.

PGY-5 Year

The final year emphasizes independent surgical competence, with chief residents managing significant portions of the surgical caseload under faculty supervision.

Research Opportunities

The program fosters an environment conducive to research, encouraging resident involvement in clinical and translational studies related to urologic conditions. With access to high-volume urologic practices and esteemed faculty, residents are equipped to engage in diverse research interests.

Application Requirements

The application process is highly competitive, accepting applications from fourth-year medical students and post-graduates. Required application materials include:

• Electronic residency application
• Three letters of recommendation
• Curriculum vitae
• Personal statement
• Medical school transcripts
• USMLE Step 1 pass (Step 2 if available)
• Registration with the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP)
• Dean's letter

Interviews are conducted in person, where selected applicants engage directly with faculty members to discuss the program and their aspirations.

Visa Sponsorships

The program also supports candidates requiring visa sponsorship, primarily handling J-1 visas, which are commonly utilized for international medical graduates under the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) certification.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The residency program is considered highly competitive and maintains a welcoming environment for both DO candidates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). The program strives to develop diverse cohorts that reflect a variety of backgrounds, enriching the training experience for all.

Unique Features

Aside from its robust training curriculum, the program places a strong emphasis on resident wellness, mentorship, and leadership so that trainees emerge as proficient and compassionate urologists prepared for the demands of both academia and private practice. Given the wide range of surgical cases and diverse patient populations, graduates are well-equipped to excel in their chosen career pathways.