UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/UCLA Medical Center Program

The Radiation Oncology program at UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine provides an exceptional training experience in a vibrant academic environment. With a mission to heal humankind through leading-edge patient care, research, education, and community engagement, the program emphasizes the development of well-rounded and skilled radiation oncologists.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum for the Radiation Oncology program is meticulously designed to cover all essential aspects of the discipline, including advanced techniques in radiation treatment, patient management, and scientific research methodologies. The educational approach incorporates both didactic sessions and practical training, providing residents with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective patient care.

Residents partake in a rigorous academic curriculum that includes seminars, lectures, and hands-on training with cutting-edge equipment. Regular case discussions and multidisciplinary tumor board meetings further enhance the learning experience, ensuring that residents can apply theoretical knowledge to clinical practice.

Clinical Rotations and Training Sites

The UCLA Radiation Oncology program offers diverse clinical experiences through its affiliation with world-renowned hospitals and clinics, including the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, one of the nation's leading academic medical centers.

Residents rotate through various clinical sites, gaining exposure to a wide variety of patient populations and treatment modalities. Training includes comprehensive experiences in external beam techniques, brachytherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery, among others.

The teaching and mentoring provided by accomplished faculty members play a pivotal role in the education process, with a commitment to fostering an environment that encourages inquiry, collaboration, and professional growth.

Research Opportunities

Research is integral to the Radiation Oncology program, where residents are encouraged to participate in innovative clinical and translational research projects. The program provides access to a variety of resources and support to facilitate research endeavors, enabling residents to present findings at national and international conferences.

Topics may range from treatment techniques and delivery methods to patient quality of life and advanced imaging technologies. The program aims to empower residents to shape the future of radiation oncology through meaningful contributions to the field.

Unique Aspects of the Program

One of the unique aspects of the UCLA Radiation Oncology program is its emphasis on a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. Residents work alongside professionals in various specialties, preparing them to collaborate effectively in the complex landscape of oncology.

The program prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring all voices in the patient care dialogue are heard. This cultivates a rich educational environment that mirrors the diverse patient demographic served by UCLA.

Visa Support

The UCLA Radiation Oncology program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, with general support for J-1 and H-1B visas. The program remains committed to facilitating a smooth transition for incoming residents from diverse backgrounds.

Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements

Admission to the Radiation Oncology program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievement, clinical experience, research involvement, and personal characteristics. The program encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DO graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Special application requirements may include guidelines around year of graduation and limits on failed U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) attempts, as part of their evaluation process.

The program seeks to attract highly motivated individuals who embrace challenges and seek to advance their knowledge and skills in radiation oncology.