University of California (San Francisco) Program

The UCSF Dermatology Residency Program provides a comprehensive three-year training experience aimed at developing exceptional clinical skills for the diagnosis and management of dermatologic diseases. The residency mission is centered around delivering compassionate care with a strong commitment to mentorship and lifelong learning, fostering the growth of residents into ethical clinicians, educators, and innovative scientists. The program emphasizes the importance of diversity and aims to produce a group of residents equipped to address current and future healthcare needs, with a special focus on health equity 1.

Program Structure

The residency comprises a three-year track that encompasses extensive clinical training, including rotations at various clinical sites that serve diverse patient populations. This setup exposes residents to a wide array of dermatologic conditions, allowing for a well-rounded clinical education. The curriculum includes in-depth training in medical dermatology, dermatologic surgery, pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, and consultative inpatient dermatology, among other subspecialties 1.

Residents benefit from a daily didactic lecture series led by esteemed faculty, which covers both clinical and basic science aspects of dermatology 1. Importantly, there exists an alternative four-year track for residents keen on research, known as the ABD-approved 2+2 track. This pathway is particularly suited for individuals with advanced degrees or substantial research experience, allowing for two years of focused clinical training followed by two years dedicated to research development 1.

Application Requirements

For those interested in applying, the program invites applications for positions starting in 2026 and anticipates offering eight positions, with 1-2 slots allocated for the physician-scientist research track 2. Applicants must choose between the traditional three-year clinical dermatology track and the 2+2 research track and are instructed to apply for only one track. The selection process involves a comprehensive assessment of various factors, including clinical skills, motivation, integrity, communication skills, and a commitment to serving diverse and underserved populations. The program strongly encourages individuals from historically marginalized groups to apply 2.

There is no minimum cutoff for USMLE Step I scores, which are considered with limited weight. However, applicants must provide the USMLE scores for Step II, which must be passing to qualify for ranking during the selection process 2. Furthermore, the program accepts applications from osteopathic (DO) physicians and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) provided they have completed a preliminary year of training in the U.S. and hold a valid ECFMG certificate 2.

Interview and Selection Process

The selection committee conducts interviews in January, where candidates participate in multiple short interviews along with informational sessions and meetings with residents and faculty. Following the interviews, selections are finalized through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) 2.

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa transfers, making it accessible for international applicants who meet the eligibility requirements 2. The competitiveness of the UCSF Dermatology residency is notably high, as demonstrated by the program's rigorous selection criteria and preference for candidates with strong leadership potential and dedication to patient care. Its commitment to diversity in healthcare and focus on health equity further drive the competitiveness of the program.