Fellowship Course in Cytopathology

• Complete a 4-year Anatomic Pathology/Clinical Pathology (AP/CP) residency or a 3-year Anatomic Pathology (AP) residency.
• Be Board Certified or Board Eligible in AP or AP/CP.
• Obtain a California Medical License before the fellowship start date.
• Be a U.S. citizen or have fulfilled residency/visa requirements before starting the fellowship.
• The program accepts J-1 visa holders but does not sponsor H-1B visas.

The Cytopathology Fellowship at UC Irvine School of Medicine, Irvine is a one-year ACGME-accredited advanced training program that prepares fellows for independent practice in diagnostic cytopathology. The fellowship provides comprehensive experience in evaluating gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology specimens, performing fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies, and correlating cytologic findings with surgical pathology and clinical data. Fellows participate in multidisciplinary tumor boards, cytology conferences, and quality assurance activities while gaining exposure to ancillary diagnostic techniques such as immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular pathology. The program also includes opportunities to complete research or quality improvement projects and emphasizes the development of diagnostic accuracy, clinical decision-making, communication, and laboratory management skills in accordance with ACGME competency standards.

1. Complete the UC Irvine CAP Standardized Fellowship Application along with the supplemental form.
2. Submit the following documents electronically (PDF format):

• Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• Dean's Letter (MSPE)
• Medical School Diploma (English translation if applicable)
• Medical School Transcript
• USMLE (Step 1, Step 2 CK, Step 2 CS, Step 3) or COMLEX scores
• ECFMG Certificate (for International Medical Graduates, if applicable)
• Previous ACGME Training Certificates (if applicable)

1. Email the completed application and supporting documents to the fellowship coordinators.
2. Applications are reviewed by the selection committee.
3. Shortlisted candidates receive an email invitation for an interview.
4. Final selection is based on the applicant's academic record, residency performance, recommendation letters, interview performance, and overall suitability for the program.