University of Michigan Program

The program offers an ACGME-accredited, one-year fellowship in dermatopathology, held at the University of Michigan, emphasizing diagnostic dermatopathology in collaboration with the Department of Dermatology. This fellowship is structured to provide a comprehensive exposure to various aspects of dermatopathology, covering both inflammatory dermatoses and cutaneous oncology.

The curriculum is designed not just to provide theoretical knowledge but also significant practical experience. For instance, pathology-trained fellows will dedicate half their time each day over an eight-month period to rotations in the Dermatology Clinic, while dermatology-trained fellows will spend the other half of their time in surgical pathology, focusing on sections pertinent to dermatopathology.

During the fellowship, fellows engage closely with both residents and faculty across departments, benefitting from the rich educational environment fostered by the University of Michigan Multidisciplinary Cutaneous Oncology Program. The dermatopathology service itself processes an impressive number of approximately 30,000 accessions annually, ensuring fellows gain substantial hands-on experience with a diverse range of cases, including specialized consultative cases enriched in melanomas and Merkel cell carcinomas, as well as direct immunofluorescence specimens.

A unique aspect of this program is the opportunity for fellows to gain direct experience in interpreting molecular diagnostic tests utilized in dermatopathology, facilitated by the Dermatopathology Molecular Laboratory. This aspect enriches the educational experience and prepares fellows for the evolving landscape of dermatopathological diagnostics.

Fellows are encouraged to participate actively in investigative projects related to dermatopathology, enhancing their research capabilities and knowledge in the field. Such involvement not only contributes to their individual professional development but also enhances the scholarly output of the program.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria. They should be U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, or J1 visa holders and must hold board certification or be board eligible in anatomical pathology and/or dermatology. Recently updated requirements stipulate that non-U.S. or Canadian medical school graduates must possess a valid ECFMG certificate, as well as be eligible for a State of Michigan professional license.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed per the American Society of Dermatopathology's (ASDP) timeline once all required documents have been submitted, including a completed fellowship application, a current CV, and three letters of recommendation. Importantly, fellowship applications must be submitted electronically for processing.

Visa Support

The program supports visa sponsorship for J1 visas, facilitating the participation of international applicants who meet the program's eligibility requirements.

Competitiveness

Admission to the fellowship is highly competitive, reflecting the program's strong reputation and the quality of training offered. The structure of the program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, accommodating both U.S. medical graduates as well as international medical graduates (IMGs), enhancing diversity within the cohort.

Salary and Benefits

The University of Michigan provides a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package for fellows. Detailed information regarding salary scales and benefits is available through the program's dedicated residency and fellowship resources.

The environment at the University of Michigan is designed to foster innovation and excellence, equipping fellows with the necessary skills, experience, and knowledge to excel in dermatopathology. The balance of hands-on training, research opportunities, and collaborative educational experiences positions the dermatopathology fellowship as a leading program nationwide.