How many positions do you have available?
We offer 6 PGY-1 positions.
How do I apply to your residency training program?
We accept applications through the Electronic Residency Application System (ERAS). We do not accept paper applications.
How many letters of recommendation are required?
We require three letters of recommendation. At least one letter needs to be from an attending psychiatrist.
Do you accept applications outside the Match system?
No, all our PGY-1 positions will be filled through the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).
The ERAS application asks me to include a personal statement. What type of information should I include and how long should it be?
The personal statement should be approximately 500 words in length. This is an opportunity for you to tell us about yourself. It would also be helpful to describe your reasons for choosing the field of psychiatry and career aspirations.
Is there a deadline for submitting applications?
Yes, 21 days after ERAS releases applications to programs.
Do you have openings for residents beyond the first year?
Not currently.
Do you have a board score requirement?
No, all applications are reviewed independently.
How do I sign up for a psychiatry elective?
Please check VSAS.
Does your program review applications from individuals who have completed a prior residency?
Yes.
When does outpatient psychiatry training begin?
Outpatient psychiatry training begins in PGY1 with the IOP, Wellness Club, and Adult Outpatient Clinic rotation. Please see the rotation description under the PGY1 curriculum.
When does psychotherapy training begin?
Residents begin participating in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Group Therapy in PGY2.
How diverse is the patient population?
Very diverse. We serve patients with Medi-Cal (Medicaid), Medicare, and Kaiser Health Insurance. Oakland is one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in America with more than 125 languages and dialects are spoken. In addition, Alameda County has one of the largest immigrant and LGBTQI populations in the United States. We have a large catchment area (of over 300,000 members) and thus serve patients from a wide variety of backgrounds.
Is moonlighting allowed?
Yes. Residents in good academic standing are eligible to moonlight with the program director’s approval starting in PGY3.
What is the Call Frequency?
Please see the “After Hours Call” section.
Is the East Bay a nice place to live?
The East Bay is one of the most desirable places to live in the world. This is due to its cultural and ethnic diversity, healthy economy, temperate climate, dynamic cities (including Oakland and Berkeley), and proximity to San Francisco. The Bay Area offers a wide range of world-class restaurants, performing arts, museums, and college and professional sporting events. There is a highly active food scene in the East Bay and chefs have access to world-class produce. Access to outdoor recreation is available through the regional park system and Lake Tahoe is just a 3-hour drive away. Public buses and the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) are inexpensive and convenient ways to travel without driving.
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Graduates of non-U.S. medical colleges
How do I apply as an International Medical Graduate?
Applications are accepted through ERAS via ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates).
Is there a cut-off score for the USMLE exams?
We require that you pass all the steps of the USMLE that you have taken.
Do you require clinical experience in the US?
Yes, we require supervised clinical experience of at least two-months in psychiatry in the United States along with reference letters from your supervising attending.