University of Michigan Program

The University of Michigan's Interventional Radiology IntegratedResidency Program is a prestigious six-year program designed toequip residents with the necessary skills in both interventionaland diagnostic radiology, being ranked consistently among the topin the country. The residency begins in the first year ofpostgraduate training with a preliminary year in General Surgery,followed by comprehensive radiology training over the subsequentfive years.

Program Structure

The Interventional Radiology (IR) residency is an integratedprogram that encompasses a surgical internship and various clinicalrotations. The surgical internship includes specialized rotationsand one dedicated to Interventional Radiology, ensuring a solidfoundation for further training. The structure is as follows:

• PGY-1: 12 rotations including a MichiganSurgery Internship with 1 SICU and 1 IR rotation.
• PGY-2: 13 rotations that include 10 diagnosticradiology (DR) rotations, 1 IR rotation, and 1 vascular surgeryoutpatient rotation.
• PGY-3: 13 rotations comprising 10 DR rotationsand 1 vascular surgery inpatient rotation.
• PGY-4: 13 rotations with 10 DR rotations and 1hepatology outpatient rotation.
• PGY-5: 13 rotations featuring 4 DR rotations,6 IR rotations, and 1 SICU rotation.
• PGY-6: 13 rotations consisting of 12 IRrotations and 1 elective rotation.

Clinical Rotations

The clinical component of the IR residency includes a diversearray of rotations that allow trainees to build a robust skill set.These rotations incorporate both interventional and diagnosticradiology elements and involve direct patient care. Residents areactively involved as primary operators during procedures,conducting inpatient consultations, and participating in outpatientclinics. The program is known for providing one of the highesttrainee-to-procedure ratios in the country, enhancing experientiallearning opportunities.1

Training Environment

The program operates out of multiple training sites, includingthe University Hospital, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, C.S. MottChildren’s Hospital, and the VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor,performing over 15,000 interventional procedures annually. Thisenvironment is instrumental in providing residents withunparalleled hands-on experience in complex cases such as aorticinterventions, vascular disease treatment, and interventionaloncology, while also fostering a strong foundation in diagnosticimaging.1

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research throughout theirtraining. The Radiology department at the University of Michigansupports a rich research culture that enables residents tocollaborate on various clinical projects, thereby enhancing theiracademic profile and contributing significantly to the field ofradiology.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The University of Michigan’s IR residency is highly competitive,with only three positions available annually filled through theNational Resident Matching Program. It is designed to be friendlytowards both DO and IMG applicants, providing a diverse andinclusive training environment. Special application requirementsinclude consideration for a maximum of one failed USMLE Stepexamination and candidates who have graduated within the last threeyears.1

Visa Support

The program offers visa support and can sponsor J-1 or H-1Bvisas for international medical graduates. This is vital forapplicants who require visa assistance to pursue their residencytraining in the United States.1

Resident Life

Residents in the program often speak highly of the collegialenvironment and supportive community among faculty and peers, whichsignificantly enhances the learning experience. Regular feedbackand informal learning opportunities are integral to theireducation, making the residency not just a learning phase but alsoa transformative journey.

Application Process

Application to the IR residency is conducted through theElectronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Interviews forprospective residents occur virtually and are scheduled inconjunction with the Diagnostic Radiology residency interviews,allowing greater flexibility for applicants, especially thosecoming from different time zones. The program strongly encouragescandidates to submit their application materials promptly to ensuremaximum visibility during the selection process.1