University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Program

The Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Residency Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison presents a comprehensive and adaptable training environment tailored to produce highly skilled pathologists equipped for various career paths, including academic, clinical, and research-focused roles. The program offers a four-year combined Anatomic and Clinical Pathology (AP/CP) residency, as well as three-year tracks for both Anatomic Pathology (AP-only) and Clinical Pathology (CP-only), with flexibility to meet individual resident needs.1

Program Structure and Goals

The residency comprises up to twenty positions within the AP/CP track, along with a dedicated Clinical Pathology Physician Scientist Track (PSTP) for up to three residents. The overall objective is to foster competent and confident diagnostic pathologists capable of passing board examinations and successfully entering competitive fellowship programs. The program's aims include recruiting a diverse resident cohort, offering a supportive learning environment, encouraging research involvement, and cultivating professionalism and leadership skills in residents.1

Curricula and Training Sites

The curriculum covers both anatomic and clinical pathology with components including:

• Autopsy and Neuropathology: The autopsy service performs around 550-600 cases annually, including forensic autopsies, while the neuropathology training emphasizes malignant cases.3
• Cytopathology: Residents receive hands-on training across four months on gynecologic cytology, remote on-site evaluations, and involvement in molecular specimen triaging.3
• Surgical Pathology: Residents manage nearly 60,000 specimens per year, with comprehensive exposure to subspecialties within surgical pathology.3

Furthermore, clinical pathology training includes a unique Core Rotation where residents rotate through multiple clinical laboratories, gaining extensive experience in chemistry, transfusion medicine, microbiology, and various subspecialties through case-based learning and active participation in laboratory management issues.6

Research Opportunities

The program encourages research involvement with dedicated support: a Translational Research in Pathology laboratory provides resources for various scientific endeavors. Residents are funded to attend conferences and engage in research designed to enhance their professional skills.1315

Application Process

Application requirements for U.S. graduates include submission through ERAS, three letters of recommendation, MSPE, official transcripts, and a minimum passing score of 210 on USMLE Step 1 (first or second attempt). International Medical Graduates (IMGs) need to show evidence of a valid ECFMG certificate, completion of USMLE Step 2, and can hold J-1 Clinical Visas sponsored by ECFMG, though H-1 visas are not supported.4

Diversity and Inclusion

The program places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, hosting events to promote interaction among underrepresented groups.12

Competitiveness and Resident Life

The residency is considered competitive, welcoming a diverse pool of candidates, including U.S. graduates and IMGs. The program boasts a collegial environment, where wellness and work-life balance are prioritized, along with ample opportunities for social activities and supportive mentorship.113

Visa Support

The program supports J-1 Clinical Visas for qualifying international applicants but does not sponsor H-1B visas. IMGs must adhere to specific clinical and ECFMG criteria to be eligible for application.4