University of Utah Health Program

The University of Utah Health Program in Pathology offers an expansive and diversified residency training experience in both Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP), as well as specialized tracks such as Anatomic Pathology Only (AP-Only), Clinical Pathology Only (CP-Only), Combined Anatomic Pathology and Neuropathology (AP/NP), and a unique Physician-Scientist Research Pathway. This residency program is fully accredited by the ACGME and has a history of excellence since its establishment in 1960.1

The program's objectives include training exceptional board-certified pathologists, providing exposure to a diverse range of clinical materials and state-of-the-art technology, and preparing residents for various career paths whether in academia or private practice. The program emphasizes leadership roles, quality improvement, patient safety initiatives, and resident well-being.1

Curriculum Overview

The residency curriculum is designed to provide flexibility, enabling residents to tailor their training to fit career aspirations. Depending on the track, residents can expect generous elective time—up to six months for the AP/CP track—which allows for a personalized educational experience.3 The training includes both core rotations and elective opportunities, ultimately ensuring comprehensive exposure to the essential facets of pathology.

Training Sites

Residents rotate through premier training sites, including:

• University of Utah Hospital and Huntsman Cancer Institute: This site provides cutting-edge medical services and features a vast array of surgical pathology cases, with over 30,000 cases handled yearly.
• ARUP Laboratories: As a national reference laboratory, ARUP offers unparalleled opportunities for residents to engage in critical hands-on training and innovative research in laboratory medicine, hosting over 25 million clinical laboratory procedures annually.
• Intermountain Medical Center: The largest tertiary care facility in the Salt Lake area, providing robust training in surgical pathology and clinical pathology.
• Primary Children’s Hospital: Provides specialized training in pediatric pathology, aligned with pediatric medical and surgical subspecialties.
• Utah State Medical Examiner’s Office: Offers essential training in forensic pathology, allowing residents to engage in practical autopsies and exposure to medical/legal cases.

Research Opportunities

The program encourages residents to engage in research with many opportunities available in both basic and clinical sciences. Research is enthusiastically supported by faculty, and residents are encouraged to present their findings at national meetings. The presence of ARUP Laboratories ensures access to diverse and impactful research projects that significantly contribute to the field of pathology.1 Residents in the Physician-Scientist Research Pathway are afforded an additional dedicated research year funded by the department.7

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the program is highly competitive; the program typically receives around 400 applications for approximately five positions. Candidates are selected based on a variety of factors including academic performance, research experience, and personal attributes. The program seeks applicants who have graduated from medical school within the last four years and those who have passed the USMLE or COMLEX exams on their first attempt. Additionally, international medical graduates must provide evidence of six months of clinical or research experience in the U.S.8

The program sponsors J-1 visas for international candidates seeking residency opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion within its training environment.9

Salary and Benefits

The University of Utah provides a robust benefits package, including competitive stipends, medical and dental insurance options, disability insurance, malpractice coverage, and generous vacation allowances. Additionally, support for educational resources and professional development opportunities is provided, with financial assistance available for conference attendance.10

Resident Wellness Initiatives

A strong emphasis is placed on resident wellness, with programs tailored to support both personal and professional growth. Regular wellness conferences focus on topics such as nutrition, mindfulness, and professional development, fostering resilience among residents.12