University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix Program

Ophthalmology Residency Program Overview

The Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix has initiated a newly Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited Ophthalmology Residency Program aimed at providing exceptional resident education. The program is dedicated to offering comprehensive clinical training across the diverse field of ophthalmology while fostering an engaging atmosphere conducive to discovery and service.1

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Ophthalmology Residency Program, applicants must meet specific criteria including eligibility for the Arizona Post-Graduate Training (PGT) permit. This applies to both MD and DO candidates, ensuring proper licensing and credentialing standards are upheld throughout the residency.2

Application Process

The residency program follows a four-year structure with an integrated internship component. Applicants are required to submit their applications through the San Francisco Match, with specific submission deadlines highlighted for clarity. It is essential for all prospective candidates to review the guidelines detailed on the university's website for the complete application process.3

Mission and Program Aims

The mission of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix Ophthalmology Residency Program focuses on nurturing the personal and professional growth of resident physicians. The program aims to deliver comprehensive, high-quality, and compassionate care to the Arizona community, emphasizing recruitment of diverse, resilient candidates. Unique training opportunities within renowned clinical settings aim to prepare residents for local and global impact through extensive clinical exposure and engagement in practice-based learning.4

Training Sites

The residency program offers a rich variety of training sites throughout Phoenix, Arizona, known as a large and vibrant city. The primary clinical site is the Phoenix Veterans’ Administration Health Care System (PVAHCS), which provides a robust, pathology-rich environment including innovative facilities like the Virtual Eye Hospital. Residents will also train at Banner University Medical Center, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and several community-based clinics.5

Primary Clinical Sites

Phoenix Veterans’ Administration Health Care System
PVAHCS serves as the central teaching site, providing extensive outpatient services and opportunities for hands-on clinical experience in both comprehensive and subspecialty ophthalmology.5

Banner University Medical Center
This level I trauma center collaborates closely with the University of Arizona, facilitating integrated surgical and medical rotations in a dynamic university setting.5

Phoenix Children’s Hospital
With an extensive array of pediatric specialists, this site focuses on caring for infants and children with complex eye conditions.5

St. Vincent de Paul – Virginia G. Piper Clinic
This community clinic provides essential eye care services to underserved populations, emphasizing accessibility and compassionate care 5.

Barrow Neurological Institute
The institute offers advanced neuro-ophthalmology training in a specialized environment focused on cutting-edge diagnosis and rehabilitation.5

Competitiveness and Residency Environment

The Ophthalmology Residency at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is characterized as a highly competitive program, open to both US and international medical graduates (IMGs). DO graduates are also welcome, with a commitment to diversity promoting an inclusive educational environment that enhances learning and professional collaboration.4

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The program offers support for international applicants that qualify for employment-based visas. Specific types of visas that can be sponsored may include J-1 and H-1B visas, providing non-U.S. citizens with the necessary documentation to train in the residency program.4