Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Program

The Virginia Commonwealth University Health System Radiation Oncology Residency Program offers a comprehensive 4-year training that is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). This program emphasizes clinical radiation oncology, radiation physics, and radiobiology, providing the clinical and procedural skills necessary for trainees to become competent and compassionate radiation oncologists. Graduates can look forward to being well-prepared for both private practice and academic positions.

The program is one of the longest-running of its kind in the country, emphasizing a collaborative approach integrating medical physics and dosimetry to enrich the educational environment. Residents have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge clinical research and will gain exposure to a full range of radiation treatment modalities, ensuring a robust clinical training experience.

Applications for residency positions must go through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and candidates are selected for interviews based on their qualifications. Approximately 15-25 applicants are invited to interview annually, with interviews conducted by the department chairman, residency program director, current faculty members, and chief residents. A clinical rotation in the department during a candidate's 4th year of medical school is highly encouraged.

Prerequisites for the residency include completion of a clinical PGY-1 year in an accredited graduate medical education program. The program's competitive selection process seeks applicants who have demonstrated a strong interest in radiation oncology and a commitment to academic and clinical excellence.

For medical physics, the department offers a two-year residency program focusing on clinical training across all aspects of radiation oncology physics, preparing residents for board certification and careers in both clinical and research settings. The Medical Physics Residency Program is structured to meet current standards for accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs (CAMPEP).

In addition to the residency programs, VCU School of Medicine's Department of Radiation Oncology supports a vibrant educational environment with offerings in medical dosimetry and radiation sciences at both undergraduate and graduate levels. It fosters a multidisciplinary approach to radiation oncology education that bridges clinical care, medical physics, and research, preparing students and residents for successful careers in this dynamic field.

For those interested in applying, it's essential to check the specific application requirements and deadlines for each program. Participation in national matching services and adherence to accreditation standards are crucial for applicants to ensure they meet all the necessary criteria for consideration.