University of Kansas (Wichita) Program

The University of Kansas (Wichita) offers a fully accredited four-year General Psychiatry Residency Program under the School of Medicine. This program is dedicated to developing proficient and well-rounded psychiatrists equipped to meet the growing demands of mental health care. The relatively small to medium-sized department allows residents to have greater access to faculty, who are actively involved in teaching and mentorship throughout the residency.

Faculty members in the program play active roles in national committees and research initiatives, including partnerships with the American Psychiatric Association and various psychiatric societies. Noteworthy, one faculty member has published over 500 articles and is an internationally recognized expert in psychopharmacology. Programs funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and pharmaceutical companies also reflect the robust research opportunities available to residents during their training.

Graduates of the program find themselves highly sought after in various professional settings, holding significant leadership roles in community mental health centers, academic institutions, and private practices across the country. Residency training at the University of Kansas School of Medicine in Wichita also ensures a nurturing community environment, with a promising cost of living that offers metropolitan conveniences at a reduced price compared to larger cities.

Curriculum

The residency program features a comprehensive curriculum that unfolds in distinct stages. The first year focuses on foundational clinical skills through rotations in inpatient psychiatry, internal medicine, and neurology, while the second and third years emphasize further developing subspecialty skills and outpatient practice. The fourth year provides ample opportunities for electives and advanced training tailored to residents' specific interests.

First Year

In the first year, residents complete:

• 2 months of Neurology
• 1 month of Emergency Medicine
• 1 month of Inpatient Family Medicine
• 1 month of Inpatient Internal Medicine-VA
• 1 month of Outpatient Internal Medicine-VA
• 3 months of Inpatient Psychiatry
• 1 month of Emergency Psychiatry
• 1 month of Consultation Integrated Care-VA
• 1 month of Consultation Liaison Psychiatry

Second Year

The second year includes:

• 1 month of Addiction Psychiatry
• 2 months of Geriatric Psychiatry
• 2 months of Consultation/Liaison Psychiatry
• 2 months of Inpatient Psychiatry
• 1 month of Electroconvulsive Therapy
• 2 months of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• 1 month of Emergency Psychiatry
• 1 month of Consultation Integrated Care-VA

Third Year

In the third year, residents engage in 12 months of outpatient psychiatry experience, both in community mental health settings and university-affiliated outpatient clinics.

Fourth Year

During the fourth year, residents have 4 months of required clinical rotations supervising junior residents and 8 months of electives, engaging in opportunities that include psychotherapy, neuroimaging, and various research experiences.

Research Opportunities

Research plays an integral role throughout the residency program. Residents are encouraged to engage in either clinical trials or foundational research through the Kansas University Medical Center’s established research facilities.

Application and Admission Criteria

The program supports applications through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) for PGY-1 positions. Applicants must submit a completed ERAS application, which includes:

• Common Application Form
• Curriculum Vitae
• Personal Statement
• Official Medical Transcripts
• Medical Student Performance Evaluation (Dean's Letter)
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• USMLE or COMLEX transcript

International Medical Graduates are required to hold or be eligible for J-1 visa sponsorship, demonstrate English proficiency, and possess a currently valid ECFMG Certificate to qualify for the program.

Visa Sponsorship

The University of Kansas Psychiatry Residency Program offers support for J-1 visa sponsorship for those who meet the requirements. This facilitates international medical graduates' ability to take part in the residency program.

Competitiveness and Special Considerations

The program is regarded as competitive, welcoming both U.S. and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Specific special application requirements include the completion of USMLE/COMLEX Step exams prior to beginning residency on July 1, ensuring that all incoming residents possess a fundamental foundation in medical knowledge.

Unique Training Environment

The program emphasizes a supportive atmosphere, characterized by camaraderie among residents and faculty alike. This nurturing environment is complemented by the affordability and livability of Wichita, which boasts a rich community, abundant recreational opportunities, and diverse culinary options, making it an attractive location for both training and residency life.