University of South Dakota School of Medicine Program

The USD Sanford School of Medicine Neurology Residency in Sioux Falls, SD, is a newly accredited, 4-year categorical program that commenced its first cohort of residents in July 2023. The program's categorical nature ensures that residents who match will automatically receive preliminary positions, allowing for a streamlined and supportive training pathway for aspiring neurologists.

Mission of the Program The mission of the program is to train neurologists who can provide excellent and timely care to the residents of South Dakota and the surrounding rural areas. In addition to clinical training, a focus is placed on research and education that enhances the quality of life for the community.

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training over four years, divided into 13 blocks of 4 weeks each. The curriculum structure for each year is as follows:

PGY-1

• 3 Blocks Internal Medicine
• 1 Block Emergency Medicine
• 1 Block Psychiatry
• 1 Block Ambulatory Medicine
• 1 Block Research
• 1 Block Inpatient Neurology
• 1 Block Outpatient Neurology
• 1 Block Elective
• 1 Block Medical ICU
• 1 Block Cardiac ICU
• 1 Block Pulmonology

PGY-2

• 4 Blocks Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)
• 2 Blocks Stroke
• 2 Blocks General Neurology Consults
• 2 Blocks Elective
• 1 Block General Neurology Ambulatory
• 1 Block Neuroradiology/Neuropathology
• 1 Block Research

PGY-3

• 2 Blocks Pediatric Neurology
• 2 Blocks General Neurology Ambulatory
• 2 Blocks Stroke
• 2 Blocks Elective
• 1 Block EMG
• 1 Block Neurocritical Care
• 1 Block EMU
• 1 Block General Neurology Consults
• 1 Block Research

PGY-4

• 4 Blocks Specialty Neurology Ambulatory
• 4 Blocks Elective
• 1 Block Stroke
• 1 Block Pediatric Neurology
• 1 Block General Neurology Consults
• 1 Block EMG
• 1 Block Research

Training Sites

Residents primarily train at Sanford USD Medical Center located in Sioux Falls, SD. Additionally, there are opportunities for training at the Sioux Falls VA Medical Center, allowing for a diverse clinical experience in both civilian and veteran healthcare settings.

Resident Life

The program promotes a balanced work-life experience, with typical working hours from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, enabling residents to manage their personal study time effectively. The residency experience encourages teamwork and camaraderie among residents, alongside structured interactions with various multidisciplinary teams.

Benefits

Residents are provided with a competitive salary model. For the academic year 2025-2026, the stipend structure is as follows:

• PGY-1: $66,000
• PGY-2: $67,500
• PGY-3: $69,500
• PGY-4: $74,000

Along with a competitive salary, residents enjoy extensive benefits including comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and professional liability coverage.

Application Requirements

The program accepts applications through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS) with specific criteria for both U.S. or Canadian medical school graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). For IMGs, candidates must pass Step 1 and Step 2 exams on their first attempt with a minimum score of 230 for Step 2 CK. Additionally, U.S. patient care experience is encouraged, preferably for two or more months. The program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas.

To be eligible for an H-1B visa, candidates must document a passing USMLE Step 3 score by match day.

Competitiveness and Special Requirements

The program is competitive and encourages individuals applying to demonstrate a robust clinical background, especially through U.S. experience. Candidates must also include three letters of recommendation, ideally from U.S. neurologists acquainted with the applicant’s clinical skills.

Life in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota, known for its low cost of living and high quality of life. The city boasts a population of over 200,000, offering a blend of urban amenities with a tight-knit community feel. The city features a variety of educational institutions, public parks, entertainment venues, and a vibrant dining scene, making it a suitable place for residents to enjoy their personal and professional lives.

Overall, Sioux Falls' amenities and quality of life serve to enrich the residency experience.