University of Maryland Program

The University of Maryland offers a robust Dermatology Residency Program that spans three years, specializing in both clinical and research aspects of dermatology. The program is designed to train residents to manage a broad range of dermatologic diseases while providing opportunities for significant involvement in research. Each year, the program matches between 2 to 4 residents, and interviews are typically conducted in January.1

Curriculum

The curriculum is comprehensive, balancing clinical training with education and research. One distinct feature of the program is a protected academic time framework, wherein residents are excused from all clinical duties for half a day each week, allowing them to engage in structured learning activities. Key components of the curriculum include:

• Weekly textbook review sessions led by residents
• Monthly unknown cases conferences (Kodachrome)
• Twice-monthly dermatopathology and grand rounds lectures
• Quarterly hands-on cosmetics training

Furthermore, residents are encouraged to participate regularly in the Maryland Dermatologic Society meetings and the American Academy of Dermatology's annual conference, broadening their professional exposure.4

Rotations

Residents have the opportunity to train at multiple renowned facilities, including:

University of Maryland Medical Center

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) serves as a teaching hospital and a national referral center for specialized care, including trauma and cancer treatment. The Department of Dermatology operates a busy clinic, seeing both adult and pediatric patients, and conducting significant surgery, including Mohs micrographic surgeries. Resident training includes continuity clinics, where they manage their assigned patients over three years, fostering enduring patient relationships.7

Baltimore VA Medical Center

The Baltimore VA Medical Center offers extensive clinical experience with a dedicated dermatology clinic. Here, residents gain hands-on experience through procedure clinics twice weekly, focusing on excisions and various dermatologic interventions. Residents also gain exposure to phototherapy and treat a wide array of conditions in a diverse patient population.8

Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes research as a central component of training. Residents are encouraged to engage in scholarly projects and collaborate with faculty members on original research. This experience not only enhances their clinical capabilities but also prepares them to contribute to the field of dermatology.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program prides itself on fostering a supportive residency culture. The leadership, including the program director and associate director, maintain open lines of communication with residents, aiming to tailor the residency experience to individual interests and career goals. Elective time during the second and third years enables residents to refine their skills in areas that align with their professional aspirations.3

Living in Baltimore

Living in Baltimore offers residents a dynamic and culturally rich environment. The city, known as Charm City, is known for its diverse neighborhoods, arts scene, and numerous recreational activities. Proximity to attractions such as Oriole Park at Camden Yards and the Inner Harbor enriches the experience of residing in Baltimore. Additionally, major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and New York City are easily accessible for quick trips.9

Visa Sponsorship and Competitiveness

The program supports J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. It welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, and while the program is competitive, it actively considers applications from both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). Special application requirements include completion of an ACGME-accredited internship, and the program accepts applications only through ERAS. Candidates with one or more failed attempts at USMLE Step exams may also apply, reflecting a more inclusive approach to residency training.610