Residency Advisor

University of Colorado Program

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Aurora, CO

Specialty:

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

ACGME Code:

2800721024

NRMP Program Code:

1076280C1, 1076280C0
Research Focused J1 H1B F1

The University of Colorado Otolaryngology Residency Program is a multifaceted training program aimed at preparing residents for independent practice in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. With a commitment to clinical excellence and innovative research, the program combines renowned faculty, a diverse patient population, and comprehensive educational resources to create a robust learning environment.

Curriculum

The residency curriculum is structured to optimize learning through didactic conferences and hands-on training. Each academic year begins with a four- to five-hour protected time every Thursday morning allocated for didactic learning. The curriculum is organized into subspecialty blocks featuring guest lectures by department faculty and external experts. Included are resident grand rounds, quality improvement and patient safety discussions, patient case reviews, journal clubs, and interactive simulation exercises. Each resident participates in a T32 Research Seminar Series bi-weekly, enriching their knowledge base and research acumen 1.

Clinical Training Sites

Residents gain valuable clinical experience at various esteemed institutions:
University of Colorado Hospital: As the primary teaching hospital, it is recognized for its comprehensive otolaryngology services. With multiple operating rooms and faculty-run clinics, residents engage in a wide range of clinical experiences while catering to a diverse patient population.
Children's Hospital Colorado: This facility hosts an extensive pediatric rotation, allowing residents to work alongside dedicated faculty experienced in complex pediatric otolaryngology. Rare procedures, such as cleft lip and palate repairs, are commonplace, fostering an exceptional learning opportunity.
Denver Health Medical Center: Focused on underserved populations, this busy Level I trauma center allows residents to manage significant cases including head and neck trauma, enhancing their surgical and decision-making skills.
Veterans Administration Hospital: Focus is placed on adult otolaryngology and managing a variety of inpatient and outpatient cases under faculty supervision. 2.

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research and scholarly activity, encouraging residents to engage in clinical, translational, and basic science studies. Residents are guided to explore diverse research projects, which may include trials or original investigations in various areas of otolaryngology. This focus on inquiry allows residents to develop skills vital for lifelong learning in medicine and improves their competencies as clinicians 3.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program prides itself on a culture of mentorship, where faculty members are deeply involved in residents’ success and personal development. The supportive environment fosters collaboration among residents, making it a nurturing space to explore various subspecialties and strengthen professional relationships 4. Furthermore, the focus on resident well-being is a key aspect, reflecting in the staffing ratios, which promote manageable workloads and meaningful interactions between trainees and educators 5.

Visa Support

The program supports visa sponsorships for foreign nationals who meet eligibility criteria. Typical visa types include J-1 visas for exchange visitors and H-1B visas for specialty occupations, ensuring that international residents can participate fully in the training 6.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The residency program is competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds and institutions. The program does not impose a strict cutoff score for USMLE Step 1, focusing instead on a holistic review of each applicant's qualifications, including their potential for success within the program 7. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate ambition, insight, and dedication in their applications. The residency provides two tracks: the five-year Core Residency Track and the six-year R25 Research Track, with one position available annually for the latter 8. Various organizational memberships and extracurricular involvement are highly regarded, contributing to a well-rounded application profile.

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Director

Name
Cristina Cabrera-Muffly, MD
Position
Program Director, Associate Professor, Comprehensive Otolaryngology
Appointed Since
  (Since April 2018)

Coordinator

Name
Vicki Muscatello
Position
Program Coordinator
Email
vicki.muscatello@cuanschutz.edu
Name
Ms. Katelynn Jennings
Position
Program Coordinator
Email
katelynn.jennings@cuanschutz.edu

Program

Program Size

4, 4, 4, 4, 4 (5 years)
Accreditation Status
Continued Accreditation since December 1959

Composition

MD
DO
U.S. IMG
Non-U.S. IMG

Training

Fellowship Rate:
55%
Faculty-to-Residents Ratio:
-
Residents Career Path
Full-time Practice
Academic
Fellowship
Other

Quality of Life

First Year Average Weekly Hours:

-

First Year Maximum Consecutive Hours on Duty:

-

First Year Salary:

-

First Year Paid Vacation:

-

First Year Paid Sick Leave:

-

Admission

USMLE Step 2 Score:
-
Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1, F1
YOG Cutoff:
-

2025 Residency Applicant & Interview Insights

No 2025 Applicant & Interview Insights available for this program.
Note: The AIR (Applicant Interview Rate) is calculated as the percentage of applicants in each category who were offered interviews. A higher AIR suggests stronger alignment with program preferences, indicating a greater likelihood of the program favoring applicants in this category.

USMLE STEP 2 CK Score

No data available for Step 2 CK Score.

COMLEX Level 2 Score

No data available for Level 2 Score.

Match History

Track: 1076280C0

2024

3 of 3

2023

3 of 3

2022

3 of 3

2021

3 of 3

2020

3 of 3

Track: 1076280C1

2024

1 of 1

2023

0 of 1

2020

1 of 1
Filled Position
Unfilled Position

Location

Aurora, CO

Population
386,261
Income
$89,300
Education
33.6%
Employment
69.2%
Health
13.2%
Age
35
Above the national average
Below the national average
Similar to the national average

Housing - Rental Prices

Rental Prices

Crime - All Violent Offences

Rental Prices

Living in Aurora, CO

  • Crime Rate and Safety
    Aurora has a mix of safe neighborhoods and areas with higher crime rates. It's essential to research specific neighborhoods before moving. Overall, the city has a moderate crime rate.
  • Fun Activities
    Aurora offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and parks. The city also has cultural attractions, shopping centers, and dining options.
  • Climate
    Aurora experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. Snow is common in the winter, while summers are sunny and warm.
  • Races and Population
    The population in Aurora is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
  • Education
    Aurora is home to the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, providing opportunities for educational and research collaborations.
  • Cost of Living
    The cost of living in Aurora is slightly above the national average, with housing being one of the significant expenses.
  • Nearby Cities
    Denver is approximately a 30-minute drive from Aurora and offers a more extensive range of entertainment, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities.

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