University of Alabama Hospital (Birmingham) Program

Birmingham, AL

University YOG 7 STEP 230 - 268 Research Focused DO Friendly IMG Friendly J1

Specialty:Pathology-anatomic and clinical

ACGME Code:3000131018

NRMP Code:1007300C0, 1007300C2

Status:Continued Accreditation

Overview

Overview of the Pathology Residency Program

The Pathology Residency Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) provides comprehensive training in both Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP), or a combined AP/CP approach. This program is designed to foster an understanding of disease through macroscopic, microscopic, and molecular analyses, providing residents with skills that are critical for board eligibility in both areas. The program is accredited by the ACGME and is affiliated with UAB's Heersink School of Medicine Graduate Medical Education, offering an environment rich in research and clinical expertise.

Curriculum Details

Anatomic Pathology Training

In Anatomic Pathology, residents analyze disease processes across various tissues and organs through surgical pathology, cytopathology, and autopsy pathology rotations. The curriculum emphasizes clinico-pathologic correlation, with opportunities to learn fine-needle aspiration techniques and cytologic evaluations. As residents progress, they assume increased responsibility, especially in autopsy rotations, where they can transition into peer teaching roles.

Laboratory Medicine Training

The Laboratory Medicine tract incorporates training on the interpretation of laboratory results and technical aspects of modern laboratory management. Core experiences cover clinical chemistry, microbiology, clinical immunology, transfusion medicine, and hematology/hemostasis. The program ensures that residents are active contributors to team healthcare, especially during transfusion-related services.

Research Opportunities

Research is highly encouraged and supported within the department. UAB ranks among the top 10% of pathology residency programs for poster presentations at major conferences like the USCAP. The program offers funding for resident-initiated research projects, with a focus on basic, translational, and applied sciences. Residents can tailor their research experiences according to their career aspirations and work collaboratively with a dedicated Physician-Scientist Development Committee.

Facilities and Rotations

The University of Alabama Hospital serves as a major clinical hub, providing a wide range of diagnostic cases for residents. This hospital acts as both a tertiary care facility and a community hospital, ensuring exposure to diverse pathology. Rotations in Pediatric Pathology are offered through the region's only dedicated children's hospital, while forensic pathology training is available in partnership with the Jefferson County Medical Examiner's Office.

Teaching Responsibilities

Residents actively participate in the educational mission of the department. They are encouraged to conduct teaching sessions and engage in various conferences targeting medical, dental, and health professions students. Additionally, teaching in the Lab Medicine Presentation Series is a vital component where residents address real-world issues in laboratory settings, covering literature review and case analysis.

Birmingham Life

Birmingham is a vibrant city known for its rich history and contemporary appeal, featuring a dynamic dining scene, numerous cultural activities, and outdoor ventures. The UAB campus is strategically positioned to take advantage of the city’s resources, enhancing the lifestyle and career opportunities for residents. The intersection of medicine, banking, and research at UAB creates a stimulating professional and social environment.

Resident Benefits and Salary

Residents receive a competitive salary along with various benefits, including substantial vacation and sick leave. Each resident is allocated an education/travel fund of $1,000 annually to support academic pursuits. Medical malpractice coverage, group health insurance options, and provided lab coats and scrubs are among the additional perks offered.

Visa Sponsorship

The Pathology Residency Program at UAB sponsors specific visa types for international applicants. This typically includes the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa, allowing international medical graduates to undertake residency training in the U.S. Such provisions ensure that qualified international candidates can apply for and successfully train in the program.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process involves a holistic review of applicants through the ERAS system, considering various factors such as academic performance, test scores, and research experience. The program is open to DO and IMG candidates but maintains a competitive selection process. Applicants need to ensure they meet specific requirements, particularly regarding their graduation year and any limitations on failed STEP exams.

Post-Residency Opportunities

UAB pathology residency graduates are well-prepared for further specialization with many participating in prestigious fellowships across the country. The program boasts strong connections to fellowships in areas like hematopathology, forensic pathology, and molecular genetic pathology, facilitating excellent post-residency placement rates.

Web sources

1. Residency - Pathology 2. Admissions - Pathology 3. Benefits - Pathology 4. Post Resident Placement - Pathology

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Program data

ACGME History ^[3]

Accreditation Last updated: Jul 16, 2026

Initial accreditation0

Full accreditation0

Continued27

Warning0

Probationary Accreditation0

Withdrawal0

#	Academic Year	Status	Effective Date
01	2000 - 2001	Continued Full Accreditation	Sep 25, 1998
02	2001 - 2002	Continued Full Accreditation	Sep 25, 1998
03	2002 - 2003	Continued Full Accreditation	Sep 25, 1998
04	2003 - 2004	Continued Full Accreditation	Oct 3, 2003
05	2004 - 2005	Continued Full Accreditation	Oct 3, 2003
06	2005 - 2006	Continued Full Accreditation	Oct 3, 2003
07	2006 - 2007	Continued Full Accreditation	Oct 3, 2003
08	2007 - 2008	Continued Full Accreditation	Oct 3, 2003
09	2008 - 2009	Continued	Oct 4, 2008
10	2009 - 2010	Continued	Oct 4, 2008

Program

Program Size

7, 7, 5, 8 (4 years)^[1]

Accreditation Status

Continued Accreditation

(Effective: January 28, 2026)

Composition ^[2]

MD · 29%

DO · 32%

U.S. IMG · 25%

Non-U.S. IMG · 14%

Training

Fellowship Rate:94%^[2]

Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:2.1X^[1]

Residents Career Path ^[2]

Fellowship · 94%

Other · 6%

Quality of Life

First Year Paid Sick Leave: 15 days^[1]

First Year Paid Vacation: 20 days^[1]

First Year Salary: $63,285^[1]

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty: 12 hours ^[1]

First Year Average Weekly Hours: 45 hours^[1]

Admission

USMLE Step 2 Score: 230–268^[2]

Visa Sponsorship:J1^[2]

YOG Cutoff:7^[1]

Race / Ethnicity

Gender

Incoming Schools

11%

University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia

11%

Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine

University of Mississippi School of Medicine

King Edward Medical University

Incoming Schools % Tree Map

Rotation Duration by Site

Rotation Duration Chart Data

Benchmarks