West Virginia University Program

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program at West Virginia University offers a comprehensive and well-rounded four-year educational experience accredited by ACGME. The program is known for its depth of training in various OB-GYN subspecialties and is designed to prepare residents for a successful career in this field.

Located in Morgantown, West Virginia, the program provides residents access to Ruby Memorial Hospital and the newly established WVU Children’s Hospital, which serve as the primary training sites. Residents also rotate at the United Hospital Center in Bridgeport, expanding their exposure to a diverse patient population including routine and complex cases, enhancing their educational experience and clinical competence 1.

Curriculum Overview

The program prides itself on delivering a curriculum that encompasses all areas of obstetrics and gynecology. The educational framework is based on the CREOG Educational Objectives and includes in-person lectures, Grand Rounds, morbidity and mortality conferences, journal clubs, and simulation training 4. This multifaceted approach broadens the learning experience, accommodating various learning styles.

Training and Rotation Schedule

Residents undergo diverse rotations throughout their training. The first-year (PGY-1) schedule includes labor and delivery, maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic surgery, and a variety of other critical areas. The subsequent years build upon this foundation with advanced experiences tailored to resident education and specialty interests 8.

Research Opportunities

Each resident is required to undertake an original research project throughout their training. This is supported by a structured research curriculum that aids residents in every aspect—from study design to publication. The program emphasizes presenting research at national conferences and encourages collaborative mentorship for residents with specific research interests 7.

Visa Sponsorship

The program is open to international applicants; however, it only accepts J-1 Visas. The institution does not sponsor any other types of visas, making it essential for foreign medical graduates to possess a valid J-1 status to be considered for residency. Non-citizens who do not hold a J-1 Visa will not be eligible for interviews 3.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The WVU OB-GYN residency is highly competitive. Applicants must submit their applications through ERAS and include essential documentation such as medical school transcripts, board scores (USMLE and/or COMLEX), a personal statement, a Dean's letter, and letters of recommendation from faculty, including one from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology 3. Board scores and attempts are weighed heavily in the screening process, and candidates with multiple board failures are typically not considered for interviews. Additionally, foreign medical graduates must be ECFMG certified to be eligible for consideration.

Salary and Benefits

The residency program offers competitive salaries and benefits, including annual allowances for educational resources and conferences that increase with each year of residency. Residents are entitled to three weeks of vacation annually and receive sick leave of 135 hours per year. Other benefits include a meal card allowance, laundry service, and various medical and disability insurances 6.

Unique Aspects and Resources

WVU's residency program emphasizes wellness with a curriculum designed to address resident well-being through monthly didactic lectures and individual wellness time. Additionally, the program integrates a Global Health Track that offers opportunities for residents to engage in healthcare in underserved communities both locally and internationally, enhancing their cultural competency and global health knowledge 9.

Community Engagement

Morgantown, the residence of the program, bolsters a small-town feel with access to urban amenities and cultural events, providing residents with a supportive and vibrant living environment. Proximity to major cities also allows for easy travel for both personal and professional endeavors 1.