University of South Dakota Program
Location:
Sioux Falls, SDSpecialty:
PsychiatryACGME Code:
4004621260NRMP Program Code:
2805400C0The University of South Dakota Psychiatry Program in Sioux Falls offers a comprehensive residency training program designed to equip physicians with the necessary tools for successful practice in the field of psychiatry. The program emphasizes a blend of educational opportunities and practical training, catering to both urban and rural healthcare environments, thereby ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to serve diverse populations.
Mission and Educational Aims
The mission of the program is focused on the lifelong development of physicians skilled in diagnosing and managing a wide range of psychiatric conditions. The residency aims to cultivate sound clinical judgment, advanced skills, and an in-depth understanding of psychiatric and related medical disorders, ensuring graduates can provide competent care to their patients.2
Curriculum Overview
The residency curriculum spans four years and includes various educational experiences. These involve didactic seminars, case conferences, grand rounds, and self-directed learning opportunities. Each year of training is structured as follows:
- PGY-1: 12 months including 4 months of primary care, 2 months of neurology, and 6 months of inpatient psychiatry.
- PGY-2: 12 months encompassing 6 months of inpatient and emergency psychiatry, 2 months in consult and liaison psychiatry, and 2 months each in substance abuse and child/adolescent psychiatry.
- PGY-3: A full 12 months dedicated to outpatient psychiatry across various clinical settings.
- PGY-4: 2 months of senior resident responsibilities in the McKennan Teaching Service followed by 10 months of electives, including opportunities for research and board review.
Residents are provided with feedback and close supervision throughout their training to support their professional growth.7
Training Sites
The program utilizes multiple training sites, including:
- Avera Behavioral Health Center
- Sanford USD Medical Center
- Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
- Sioux Falls VA Medical Center
- Southeastern Behavioral Health
6
Research Opportunities
The residency program encourages research engagement among its residents. Training includes principles of research design as well as structured reviews of current psychiatric literature. Residents have opportunities to complete academic projects which may lead to publication in peer-reviewed journals.9
Community and Resident Life
Life in Sioux Falls combines the benefits of a metropolitan area with the warmth of a close-knit community. Residents are supported by a collaborative environment, with social events planned throughout the year to foster friendships and professional relationships among peers.8
Sioux Falls also provides a variety of activities and amenities, including parks, entertainment venues, and a vibrant dining scene, making it an appealing place to live and work during residency.10
Visa Support
The program is committed to accommodating international medical graduates. The types of visas supported include J-1 and H-1B visas, providing opportunities for eligible candidates seeking residency training in the United States.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The program is highly competitive, and candidates must meet specific application criteria. This includes submission through ERAS, with a complete application package that features a dean's letter, medical school transcript, a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and a photo. Further, candidates are required to schedule and participate in virtual interviews.4
Additionally, the program places importance on evaluating the overall medical education background and performance of applicants, including examination scores and clinical experience.5
Website
Director
Shawn D Van Gerpen, MD, BSProgram Director - Academic Associate Professor Appointed Since July 2011Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
47hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$63,000First Year Paid Vacation:
15 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
10 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
0.6XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
189Visa Sponsorship:
H1B, J1YOG Cutoff:
-Match History
2805400C0
2024
7 of 72023
7 of 72022
9 of 92021
7 of 92020
7 of 7Location
Sioux Falls, SD
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Sioux Falls, SD
- Crime Rate and Safety: Sioux Falls has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the U.S., making it a safe place to live.
- Fun Activities: Sioux Falls offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and water activities on the Big Sioux River. The city also has cultural attractions like museums and theaters.
- Climate: Sioux Falls experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Be prepared for snow in the winter months.
- Races and Population: Sioux Falls has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities, creating a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Education: The city has good public and private schools, as well as higher education institutions like the University of Sioux Falls and Augustana University.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Sioux Falls is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.
- Neaby Cities: Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. The nearest bigger cities are Minneapolis, MN, and Omaha, NE, which are both approximately a 3-hour drive away. Minneapolis offers a vibrant urban experience with cultural attractions, while Omaha is known for its zoo and museums.
- Pros: Low crime rate, affordable cost of living, diverse population, and plenty of recreational activities.
- Cons: Cold winters and distance from larger cities for more diverse entertainment options.
Interview Questions
