University of California (San Francisco) Program

The Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship program at UCSF is designed to train leaders in the field, emphasizing clinical excellence, innovative research, medical education, and patient safety. The program offers a flexible framework with strong mentorship that aids fellows in tailoring their training to meet their unique career aspirations. Established in 1966, the ACGME-accredited fellowship follows a physiology-based teaching philosophy inspired by Dr. Abraham Rudolph, fostering a rich educational environment.

This three-year fellowship comprises comprehensive training in all facets of pediatric cardiology. Graduating fellows acquire the necessary skills to embark on successful academic careers and prepare for the American Board of Pediatrics Certifying Examination in Pediatric Cardiology 1.

Application Process

The application for the Categorical Fellowship is managed through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), with enrollment openings occurring in July for positions beginning the following July. The program participates in the NRMP match, offering interviews from late August through early November. Applicants must submit at least three letters of recommendation addressed to the Program Director during the application process. It's critical to note that the program only accepts graduates from U.S. or Canadian medical schools and ECFMG certificate holders; J-1 and H-1B visa scholars are also welcome. However, UCSF does not sponsor new H-1B visas for clinical fellowship training, necessitating clarity on visa status at the time of application 1.

Advanced 4th Year Fellowship

Candidates wishing to apply for an advanced fourth-year fellowship are required to have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric program. Similar to the categorical program, J-1 and H-1B scholars are considered. A successful application for this fellowship includes a current CV, two letters of recommendation, and a letter outlining goals for the upcoming year and career plans. Although these applications are usually due in late Spring, applicants should consult with the Fellowship Program Coordinator for specific details, as processes may vary by specialty 1.

Curriculum Overview

Clinical Training

The fellowship begins with a three-week orientation, focusing on essential didactics and “echo immersion,” where fellows learn to execute a complete pediatric transthoracic echocardiogram. The initial year includes rotations in inpatient services, night float, and various cardiology subspecialties—such as cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology. In the subsequent years, fellows rotate through advanced areas including the cardiac intensive care unit, heart failure/transplant services, and adult congenital cardiology. Additionally, fellows engage in outpatient pediatric cardiology clinics, with rotations tailored to align with individual career trajectories 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship; each fellow has a dedicated 12-month research period throughout the program. The focus on research intensifies in the latter years as service responsibilities decrease, enabling fellows to develop and refine their research interests. Most fellows partake in multiple research projects and present findings at both regional and national conferences. Monthly Works in Progress sessions facilitate ongoing research discussions, with various optional research tracks available, including basic science collaboration with the Gladstone Institute and population health research alongside the UCSF Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department 1.

Educational Opportunities

During their training, fellows at UCSF are immersed in direct patient care, organized didactic teaching sessions, and participation in Pediatric Heart Center conferences. The curriculum allows for flexibility, enabling each fellow to adjust their rotation schedule according to personal training needs and professional development goals. Additional electives are available in pediatric cardiac anesthesia and palliative care. Continuous education sessions encompass vital topics such as echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and cardiology-related pathologies 1.

Program Competitiveness and Additional Requirements

This program is highly competitive, attracting numerous well-qualified candidates, including both MD and DO graduates, as well as International Medical Graduates (IMGs). It is essential for prospective candidates to be informed about the specific application requirements, which include graduation from a U.S. or Canadian medical program and additional yet-to-be-defined parameters. Generally stated, candidates with a history of multiple failed STEP exams may face hurdles in the application process, although specific guidelines should be verified directly 1.

Visa Support and Types

The UCSF Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship program provides visa support for ECFMG certificate holders and considers applications from J-1 and H-1B visa scholars. However, it is important to highlight that the program does not sponsor H-1B visas for new clinical fellowship trainees. Candidates will need to secure their visa status before applying to ensure compliance with program requirements 1.