UCLA-Kern Medical Center Program

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Kern Medical offers an extensive and detailed two-year training program that is accredited by the ACGME. The program is specifically tailored to equip fellows with essential skills and knowledge that are critical in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry. There is a profound emphasis on clinical experience, supplemented by a variety of seminars, allowing fellows the opportunity to develop both practical and theoretical expertise in handling mental health issues among children and teenagers.

One notable aspect of the program is its incorporation of a wide range of rotations. In addition to a university-based day hospital rotation, fellows will participate in outpatient and consultation service rotations located in community mental health clinics. These experiences are further complemented by rotations in forensic psychiatry, pediatric neurology, and school consultation settings, thereby providing fellows with a comprehensive exposure to diverse clinical environments.1

The program prioritizes the issues surrounding minority mental health, showcasing its commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by underrepresented populations. Educational opportunities include lectures which focus on cross-cultural aspects of child psychiatry, thereby enriching fellows’ understanding of the socio-cultural contexts they may encounter in practice.1

Research Opportunities

Research is a fundamental component of the fellowship, with various opportunities available for fellows to engage in academic pursuits. The faculty at Kern Medical encourages all trainees to explore their specific interests in research, promoting the growth of academic scholarship and contributing to the broader field of psychiatry.1

Competitive Environment

The Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Kern Medical is a competitive program that attracts a diverse pool of applicants. It is particularly open to candidates from different backgrounds, including DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) and IMG (International Medical Graduate) applicants, making it friendly toward a range of medical graduates.1

Special Application Requirements

In consideration of the competitive nature of the program, applicants should be aware of certain prerequisites when applying. Specific application details, such as maximum allowable failed STEP exam scores and any potential year of graduation considerations, are essential factors in the application process. It should be noted that understanding these specifics is crucial for candidates looking to strengthen their application potential.1

Visa Support

Kern Medical offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, providing assistance for applicants needing support for particular visa types. This approach underscores the program's commitment to welcoming a diverse cohort of residents, thereby enriching the educational environment with various perspectives and experiences.1

Training Sites

The training experiences within the fellowship are well-structured across multiple sites, ensuring fellows gain a holistic understanding of child and adolescent mental health. By rotating through a variety of settings—such as community mental health clinics and specialized pediatric units—trainees are exposed to a wide array of clinical situations and treatment methodologies, essential for their development as well-rounded practitioners.1

Compensation and Benefits

Fellows in the program can expect a competitive salary structure, which includes a meal stipend and possible additional educational funding. Specific details regarding the salary levels for each postgraduate year (PGY) are provided, with varying stipends based on the year of fellowship.1

On top of these, the program provides access to health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and opportunities for residents to engage in optional moonlighting positions for additional income.1