Individual Curriculum

The elective time generally provides the flexibility to obtain specific education in areas that meet personal interest and career goals. However, we also consider additional modifications in the curriculum that allow particular preparation for academic careers and subspecialty training. In this spirit, the Program Director will discuss with the residents who wish to follow one of the tracks approved by the American Board of Pediatrics that blend general pediatric and subspecialty education.

Individuals who are pursuing a career as a physician scientist have abundant opportunities on campus during their residency. The program Director and faculty mentors assist residents in designing special research electives created to provide opportunities to work with UT Southwestern scientists and clinicians in areas of subspecialty interest. The Physician Trianing Program offers highly individualized research training and career development for physician scientists at the fellowship level.

Residents interested in Pediatric Neurology are given special consideration in scheduling to prepare them for the two-year curriculum in pediatrics as outlined by the American Board of Pediatrics. The American Board of Pediatrics has specified the curricular content for these two years in pediatrics and residents seeking training in neurology are encouraged to pursue additional elective rotations in addition to these requirements.

Residents interested in general pediatrics are able to pursue their career interests through the flexibility in our curriculum. Over the course of three years, trainees may work with the Program Director to generate a focus on primary care through the abundant elective time provided. This flexibility allows residents to explore general pediatrics without a commitment to a restricted track, so they may individualize their curriculum to suit their personal goals – even when those goals change.