University of Tennessee College of Medicine-Chattanooga Program

The University of Tennessee College of Medicine - Chattanooga offers a comprehensive residency program in neurology in collaboration with the Erlanger Health System's Neuroscience Institute. This program aims to treat patients with a variety of neurological disorders, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses both adult and pediatric care. Notably, Erlanger Health System is the region's only certified academic Neurosciences Center, which provides residents with access to specialized and subspecialized services, utilizing advanced imaging technology for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans, thereby ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

The neurology residency program has received Initial Accreditation from the ACGME, with the beginning of the PGY-1 level starting on July 1, 2025, as a Preliminary Medicine Internship experience. Candidates matched into the program will transition into formal neurology training as PGY-2 Residents on July 1, 2026. The structure of the program includes a total of 12 resident positions across four levels of training: three PGY-1, three PGY-2, three PGY-3, and three PGY-4 residents.1

Applicants are required to apply through the AAMC ERAS System, and the program is set to participate in the NRMP Main Match 2025. Importantly, candidates must understand that matching with the neurology residency program commits them to a PGY-1 Preliminary Medicine position, followed by the PGY-2 level of neurology training. Competitive aspects of the program include a focus on candidates who have passed the USMLE Step 1, Step 2, and Steps 2 Clinical Knowledge and 2 Clinical Skills on their first attempts. International Medical Graduates must hold ECFMG certification to be considered for application and must possess either a Permanent Resident Visa or be eligible for a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.3

Curriculum Overview

The neurology residency curriculum is designed to provide residents with both broad exposure and deep training in clinical neurology. The curriculum includes a full-year PGY-1 Preliminary Medicine rotation, which comprises various clinical experiences, allowing residents to build a solid foundation in internal medicine. The PGY-1 block schedule includes rotations in Inpatient Internal Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, Neurology, Cardiology, Neurosurgery, and Emergency Medicine.4

The subsequent years (PGY-2, PGY-3, PGY-4) involve progressive responsibility and complexity in managing neurological cases. During the PGY-2 year, the focus is on General Neurology, Stroke, and Ambulatory Neurology, complemented by rotations in EEG and EMG. Additionally, residents are exposed to teaching and mentoring opportunities through the “Residents as Educators” program, enhancing their educational skills. In the PGY-3 and PGY-4 years, there are dedicated blocks for Pediatric Neurology, Neurophysiology, and Electives that allow residents to tailor their training to specific interests within neurology.5

Unique Aspects of the Program

The program is embedded within the Erlanger Health System, which is the primary training site and offers a rich spectrum of clinical experiences, including being a level one trauma center and comprehensive stroke center. This training environment provides residents with opportunities to manage cases drawn from a three-state catchment area (Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina). The program is committed to producing physicians who are not only skilled in clinical care but also engaged in continuous medical education throughout their careers.1

Research and Scholarly Activities

In addition to clinical training, residents are encouraged to participate in scholarly activities, including research projects, quality and patient safety initiatives, and leadership roles within the hospital system. Mentorship opportunities are provided based on individual interests, facilitating growth in both clinical and academic domains.4

Visa Sponsorship and Requirements

The University of Tennessee College of Medicine does not sponsor residents or fellows with H-1B visas. However, applicants from international backgrounds may be sponsored for J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas through the ECFMG, ensuring an integrated pathway for eligible candidates. Applicants holding a Permanent Resident Visa are also welcome.3

Competitiveness and Candidate Requirements

The residency program is highly competitive, with a preference for applicants who have graduated from medical school within the past three years or have significant clinical experience in the last five years. Strong candidates tend to demonstrate leadership, engagement in research, and clinical experience within US healthcare settings. Three letters of recommendation and a background check are also part of the application process.4