University of South Dakota Program

Overview of the Program

The University of South Dakota's Internal Medicine Residency Program strategically trains residents to be competent internists who are prepared for various career paths, including outpatient primary care practice, hospitalist medicine, or pursuing fellowships. The program fosters a learning environment that emphasizes medical education excellence and the promotion of personal and professional wellness, ensuring residents are well-prepared for their future roles in medicine 1.

Mission and Aims

The mission is focused on developing compassionate internists who can provide high-quality care to diverse patient populations while committing to lifelong learning. The aims of the program include training residents to be effective medical educators, offering opportunities for achieving scholarship excellence, and creating a supportive learning environment 1.

Program Curriculum

This residency encompasses a comprehensive 36-month curriculum leading to eligibility for the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). Approximately 33% of the training is dedicated to ambulatory care. The program employs a 4+2 model whereby residents alternate between four-week inpatient rotations and two-week ambulatory blocks, promoting a balanced training approach. For each year, the rotation schedule is as follows:

• PGY-1: 4-5 months Inpatient General Internal Medicine, 1 month Cardiology, 1 month Critical Care, plus electives and ambulatory blocks.
• PGY-2: Similar structure with additional rotations including Neurology and Critical Care, alongside electives.
• PGY-3: Involves rotations in Emergency Medicine, Critical Care, and more electives to finalize training.

All residents also participate in a robust set of continuity clinics, guest lectures, and specialized clinics in various subspecialties, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience 1.

Training Sites

Residents benefit from diverse training environments, including the Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera Health, as well as private practices throughout Sioux Falls. These institutions provide a rich array of clinical experiences and exposure to a wide range of pathologies 1.

Life in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls presents an optimal setting for residency, offering the amenities of a larger city, yet retaining a welcoming, community feel with low crime rates and a modest cost of living. The population of approximately 214,000 provides robust social and cultural experiences, with access to restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor activities, supporting a balanced residency lifestyle 1.

Competitiveness

The Internal Medicine Residency Program at USD is competitive and embraces international medical graduates (IMGs). Applicants must meet specific criteria, including passing scores on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK exams, with a strong preference for U.S. clinical experience 5. The program also offers J-1 and H-1B visa sponsorship for eligible international candidates 5.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit their application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Key application elements include:

• Dean's letter
• Medical school transcript
• Three letters of recommendation (two from U.S. physicians preferred)
• USMLE or COMLEX transcript
• Personal statement

For international graduates, passing scores on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 with a minimum Step 2 score of 240 are mandatory. All candidates must be ECFMG certified prior to consideration 5.

Benefits

The residency offers a competitive salary structure and comprehensive benefits plan, which promote the well-being of residents. For the 2025-2026 academic year, salary ranges from $66,000 for PGY-1 to $83,000 for PGY-7. Alongside salary, residents enjoy health insurance, life insurance, and professional liability coverage, reflecting the program's commitment to supporting its trainees 6.

Resident Life

Resident life is cultivated through a 4+2 schedule that ensures a healthy work-life balance, allowing residents to engage in self-study and personal activities. The program conducts numerous social events facilitating camaraderie among residents, fostering a supportive community throughout the residency experience 6.

Unique Aspects

Highlights of the USD Internal Medicine program include committed mentorship throughout residency, a focus on resident wellness, and opportunities to engage in scholarly activities. Faculty involvement is a cornerstone of the residency, fostering a collegial atmosphere conducive to professional growth 1.