UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program

UCLA Dermatology Residency Program Overview

The UCLA Dermatology Residency Program, part of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, aims to develop dermatology physicians into exceptional clinicians, educators, researchers, and leaders in the field. With a diverse and multidisciplinary approach, UCLA ensures that trainees engage extensively in medical dermatology and its various subspecialties, including pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, and dermatologic surgery 1.

The program offers two primary tracks: the traditional three-year clinical track and the Specialty Training and Research (STAR) Program, which is designed for candidates interested in pursuing substantial research alongside clinical training. The STAR Program allocates dedicated time for research during the first two years, leading to a unique 2+2 format for a four-year experience culminating in eligibility for American Board of Dermatology certification 1.

Curriculum and Rotations

The residency curriculum is structured to provide extensive didactic education alongside clinical exposure. Residents participate in two half-days per week of didactic and practical training that includes faculty-led reviews, practical sessions, and a monthly journal club scrutinizing current literature in dermatology 1.

Moreover, residents are required to deliver Grand Rounds presentations and participate in resident clinics at both the West Los Angeles VA and Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, where they gain hands-on experience treating diverse patient populations 1.

Clinical Sites

The residency training involves two primary clinical sites:

• West Los Angeles VA Hospital: Located close to the main campus, this facility provides extensive surgical experience, performing over 600 Mohs procedures annually. Residents have the opportunity to work closely with faculty and engage in daily medical and surgical clinics 1.
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center: This county hospital caters to a socioeconomically diverse patient population. Residents rotate through this clinical setting to treat a wide variety of dermatological conditions while participating in a comprehensive educational experience 1.

Research Opportunities

UCLA dermatology residents are encouraged to engage in research early in their training, especially those in the STAR Program. They have dedicated time to initiate and complete research projects in their areas of interest, which is crucial for those interested in academic medicine 1.

Community Engagement and Service

Residents are involved in community service initiatives, such as Camp Wonder, which provides support for children with complex skin conditions. Additionally, through the Venice Family Clinic, residents deliver dermatologic care to underserved populations 1.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UCLA Dermatology Program is firmly committed to fostering an inclusive environment. Efforts are made to recruit residents and faculty from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to ensure a diverse community that can offer culturally competent care 1.

Application Process

Applicants to the UCLA Dermatology Residency Program must be graduates of an accredited medical school and possess either U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores or valid ECFMG certificates for international medical graduates (IMGs). The program sponsors J-1 visa types for international trainees 1.

There are no specific stringent application requirements regarding the year of graduation, although candidates should not have excessive previous residency training. The program only considers applications submitted through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP) and does not accept applicants who are already board-certified in another specialty 1.

Competitive Landscape

The UCLA Dermatology Residency Program is noted for being highly competitive. Candidates from diverse backgrounds, including those from osteopathic schools and IMGs, are also welcomed, contributing to the program's commitment to inclusivity. Applicants should showcase academic excellence and dedication to the field of dermatology 1.

Vacation and Wellness

Residents are entitled to four one-week blocks of vacation annually, in addition to medical and parental leave as needed. A healthy work-life balance is encouraged throughout the residency training 1.