Department of Ophthalmology
Training & Education

Residency Program

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Train with Purpose. Lead with Impact.

Residency and fellowship programs at the Keck School of Medicine of USC offer rigorous clinical training, access to groundbreaking research, and mentorship from nationally recognized faculty—all in one of the most diverse and dynamic cities in the world. Discover how our graduates become compassionate, forward-thinking leaders in every field of medicine.

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Ophthalmology Residency Program

Our four-year ophthalmology residency program accepts six residents per year, including integrated interns — one of the largest programs on the West Coast. Training spans four institutions: the USC Roski Eye Institute at Keck Medical Center of USC, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles General Medical Center, and the VA Downtown Los Angeles Medical Center. Graduates consistently rank above the 80th percentile nationally in total ophthalmologic procedures performed.

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Integrated Training

Interested in the Ophthalmology Residency at USC/LA General Medical Center? Hear from our Ophthalmology Residency program director about what makes our program unique.

Photo of Brian J. Song, MD

WHAT MAKES THIS PROGRAM DISTINCTIVE:

  • USC Roski Eye Institute: The USC Roski Eye Institute has been ranked as a top ophthalmology department by U.S. News and World Report for 28 years.
  • Los Angeles General Medical Center: One of the largest public hospitals in the United States. Daily ophthalmology volume of 250-350 patients, with 10-12 surgeries performed. Senior residents run their own OR at LA General, developing independent surgical judgment.
  • Children’s Hospital Los Angeles: Ranked among the top five children’s hospitals in the U.S. Subspecialty exposure in retinoblastoma, retinopathy of prematurity, pediatric strabismus, and complex anterior segment disease.
  • Surgical Curriculum: First-year residents begin cataract surgery in early spring. The program provides wet labs, cadaver labs, MIGS training, Eyesi Surgical simulator access (cataract and retinal platforms), and a monthly cataract case conference.
  • Research Access: Faculty hold 30+ active sponsored research grants. Residents with research interest have the opportunity to work directly with funded investigators.

Application

Applications through SF Match only. Contact: Lien Lam.

See Application Process Page

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Cirriculum
Current Residents
Residency Leadership
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