The UMass Chan Medical School Program in Urology is dedicated to training the next generation of urologists, focusing on academic excellence and clinical education. As Massachusetts’ only public medical school, the program is set in Worcester, providing residents with a unique training environment enriched by the cultural and recreational options available in a small city atmosphere.
The Urology Residency Program has a distinguished history, educating medical students and residents for over thirty years. The faculty comprises accomplished specialists with expertise in common and complex urologic diseases. The comprehensive scope of urologic disorders covered includes urologic cancers, stone disease, incontinence, urinary tract reconstructions, and more. Advanced surgical technologies such as robotic, laparoscopic, and endoscopic methods are integral to the training provided to residents.
Curriculum
The curriculum of the UMass Chan Medical School Urology Program emphasizes a strong academic foundation aligned with the AUA core curriculum. Regularly scheduled didactic sessions explore various topics, including calculus disease, female pelvic medicine, infertility, pediatric urology, and urologic oncology, among others. In addition to these didactic sessions, residents participate in educational events such as Grand Rounds and Morbidity and Mortality meetings, which enhance clinical acumen while fostering a collaborative learning environment 1.
Clinical Rotations
The five-year block schedule incorporates diverse clinical rotations that encompass both inpatient and outpatient urology practices. The program is designed to adapt to individual resident needs, offering flexibility for elective rotations. Specifically, residents in PGY 1 through PGY 5 gain exposure to subspecialties through outpatient blocks, ensuring a robust clinical training experience. Elective rotation options include medical oncology, plastic surgery, and urologic pathology, thus maximizing learning opportunities for each resident 8.
Unique Program Features
UMass Chan Medical School's Urology Residency Program prides itself on fostering a culture of collaboration and collegiality among its faculty and residents. The mentorship model ensures that residents receive support in both professional development and personal growth. Faculty members, through their involvement in research, offer residents opportunities for participation in various laboratory, translational, and clinical investigations, enhancing the educational experience 4. Furthermore, the department emphasizes the importance of building strong interpersonal relationships within the team, contributing to a cohesive training atmosphere.
Research Opportunities
Through partnerships with community-based urologists and ongoing faculty research projects, residents are afforded a broad exposure to the discovery process. The program encourages participation in research, aiming to enhance the educational experience and contribute to the advancement of urologic practice 7.
Visa Support
The program provides visa support for international medical graduates, offering options such as J-1 and H-1B visas for qualified candidates. This support is essential for ensuring that diverse applicants can join the residency program and benefit from the robust educational framework established at UMass Chan 6.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The UMass Chan Medical School Urology Program is recognized as competitive but welcomes a diverse range of applicants, including those from DO and IMG backgrounds. It is essential for applicants to maintain a strong academic record with specific requirements related to STEP examinations, reflecting the program's high standards for resident selection. Candidates are encouraged to demonstrate not only clinical aptitude but also a commitment to the values of collaboration and service inherent in the program's culture 5.
Living in Worcester
Worcester provides a vibrant living environment for residents. With ample recreational options, cultural attractions, and community resources, it is an excellent place for individuals and families alike. The program highlights the supportive community atmosphere that enables residents to thrive both professionally and personally 3.
Website
Director
Jennifer Yates, MDProgram Director - Associate Professor; Vice-Chair of Academic Affairs Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
72hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$70,940First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
15 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Worcester, MA
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA is a diverse city with a lot to offer for residents. Here is an overview of what living in Worcester is like:
Crime Rate and Safety:
Worcester has a mid-range crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. While certain areas may have higher crime rates, overall the city is considered safe to live in.
Fun Activities:
Worcester offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries. There are also numerous parks and outdoor recreational areas for residents to enjoy. The city has a vibrant food scene with diverse dining options.
Climate:
Worcester has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with average temperatures ranging from the high 20s in winter to the mid-80s in summer.
Races and Population:
Worcester is a diverse city with a population of approximately 208,000 residents. The city has a mix of races and ethnicities, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Education:
Worcester is home to several higher education institutions, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Clark University. The city also has a strong public school system for residents with children.
Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Worcester is slightly above the national average. Housing costs can vary depending on the neighborhood, but overall, Worcester offers a more affordable living situation compared to nearby Boston.
Proximity to Bigger Cities:
Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, which is about a 1-hour drive depending on traffic. Boston offers additional cultural, dining, and entertainment options for residents looking to explore a bigger city.
Pros and Cons:
One of the pros of living in Worcester is its diverse community and cultural attractions. However, one potential con could be the traffic congestion during peak times, especially when commuting to Boston.
Interview Questions
