University of California Davis Health Program

The UC Davis Health Ophthalmology Residency Program is a fully accredited, three-year residency designed to engage residents in comprehensive training in both clinical and surgical ophthalmology. Established in 1970, the program has built a legacy of excellence by offering a curriculum rich in formal education, clinical rotations, and research opportunities. Residents are provided with resources that prepare them to pursue either independent practice or subspecialty fellowship training after graduation, highlighted by distinguished careers in various domains, including private practice, academic settings, and industry.1

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is structured to develop both the clinical and surgical expertise of residents. The training spans four years, divided into distinct phases focusing on comprehensive ophthalmology, subspecialties, and increasing responsibilities.1

PGY-1 Year

The first year consists of an Integrated Internship at UC Davis Health, where residents spend three months on the ophthalmology service and engage in various subspecialties. Interns receive initial surgical experience in a supportive environment, combined with rotations in allied fields like facial plastics and otolaryngology, crucial for understanding the interdisciplinary nature of ophthalmology.2

PGY-2 Year

In the second year, residents focus on comprehensive ophthalmology, spending substantial time in hands-on clinical settings, including cataract surgeries. They also engage in the consult service to further develop their evaluation and management skills across a range of ocular emergencies.2

PGY-3 Year

During the third year, residents rotate among specialized services, such as neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastics, glaucoma, and pediatric ophthalmology. This stage emphasizes both medical and surgical management, allowing for deeper engagement with complex cases and a vast array of diseases.2

PGY-4 Year

In the final year, residents undertake chief resident responsibilities, which grant them autonomy and refine their leadership skills. This culminates with advanced rotations that solidify their surgical and clinical expertise, particularly in cataract and refractive surgery.2

Research Opportunities

The UC Davis residency program emphasizes research as a critical component of training. The program fosters an environment for residents to engage in clinical and basic science research, with access to the Center for Vision Science and partnerships with the UC Davis Veterinary School, enhancing collaborative efforts in translational research initiatives.3

Application Process

Applicants are required to submit their applications through SF Match. The residency program aligns its interview dates with a virtual platform, ensuring accessibility for candidates across various locations. Notably, applicants accepted into the program are automatically matched with an integrated PGY-1 internship.4

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The program is known to support various visa types for international medical graduates, facilitating the inclusion of diverse candidates. It assesses each application comprehensively, maintaining an open stance toward both DO and IMG applicants—fostering an inclusive educational atmosphere.4

Special Requirements

While considering applications, the program may have specific prerequisites regarding the year of graduation and a cap on failed STEP exams to ensure that candidates demonstrate a strong academic foundation.4

Unique Aspects of the Program

The UC Davis Ophthalmology Residency Program prides itself on offering unique experiences such as early surgical exposure, a wide range of clinical settings, and dedicated mentorship from prominent faculty members. With two separate VA hospital rotations, residents gain exposure to diverse patient populations and additional training opportunities that enhance their clinical skills.1