University of California (Irvine) Program

The Ophthalmology Residency Program at the University of California, Irvine, provides a comprehensive and intensive training experience for residents. Accredited by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), the program offers diverse clinical and surgical exposure alongside significant research opportunities.

Residents in this program benefit from a structured didactic curriculum in addition to their clinical and surgical training. They gain extensive experience at various teaching hospitals including UCI Medical Center, VA Long Beach Healthcare System, and the UCI Gavin Herbert Eye Institute.

Research is a key component of the program, with residents required to complete at least one research project suitable for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Additionally, residents engage in various didactic activities, wet labs, and academic sessions to enhance their learning experience.

Eligibility criteria for U.S. applicants include having a medical degree from a U.S. or Canadian medical school approved by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, completion of USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, and eligibility for licensure in California by the second post-graduate year.

International graduates must have an ECFMG certificate, a J-1 clinical visa or proof of permanent residency status, and must comply with the Medical Board of California evaluation status requirements.

The application process for UCI's Ophthalmology Residency Program involves registration through the San Francisco Match Residency and Fellowship Matching Service. The program has specific application deadlines and requirements, detailed on the program's website.

Residents at UCI receive competitive annual salaries and benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, disability insurance, and vacation time. Financial support is also available for attending major scientific meetings and acquiring necessary educational resources.

For further inquiries, interested applicants can contact the Program Coordinator, Dr. Pauline David, and the Residency Program Director, Dr. Stephanie Lu. The program aims to equip residents with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in comprehensive ophthalmology or top subspecialty fellowships.

Please note that the content provided is based on the information available on the University of California, Irvine, Ophthalmology Residency Program's website. For the most current and accurate details, applicants are encouraged to refer to the official program website.