Categorical Residency Training Program

The University of Pittsburgh has one of the most comprehensive, well-rounded, and flexible curriculums in the country. The categorical program is designed for residents who want a broad exposure to inpatient and outpatient care, general medicine, subspecialty medicine, and research. It provides flexibility in the second and third years so residents who are undecided at the time of entry into the program can choose electives to match their career goals as they develop. Graduates from the categorical program will be equipped for any academic practice, fellowship, or private practice career.

The core academic curriculum is found in the categorical program. While two-thirds of the clinical rotations center on inpatient care, the others are in various ambulatory settings, including hospital emergency rooms, specialty and walk-in clinics, and offices of selected physicians serving as clinical faculty.

Interwoven throughout the program are learning modules with formats that are continually reviewed and revised to maximize educational opportunities. Web-based training and videotaped sessions (of residents interviewing patients, for instance) are some of the teaching tools currently used.

Other highlights include opportunities to participate in international health initiatives, free-care clinics for underserved populations, geriatric health care, training with simulation technology, and active participation in the program’s governance.

The Department of Medicine offers 52 positions in the categorical program each year. For more information about how to apply for this program, click here.

Categorical Residency Program







PGY 1
5-6 Months of Inpatient Floors

3-4 Months General Medicine

1 Month Cardiology

1 Month Hematology/Oncology

1-2 Months ICU (Medical ICU or CCU)

1 Month Ambulatory Block

2 Weeks Neurology

2-3 Months Electives

2 Weeks Night Float

Continuity clinic 1 full day per week every other month (elective month)







PGY 2
4 Months of Inpatient Floors

2 Months General Medicine

1 Month Cardiology

1 Month Hematology/Oncology

1-2 Months ICU (Medical ICU or CCU)

1 Month Ambulatory Blocks

2-3 Months Electives

1 Month Outpatient Geriatrics

4 Weeks Night Float

Continuity clinic 1 full day per week every other month (elective month)







PGY 3
3 Months of Inpatient Floors

2 Months General Medicine

1 Month Cardiology

1-2 Months ICU (Medical ICU or CCU)

2 Months Ambulatory Block

3-4 Months Electives

4 Weeks Night Float

1 Month Emergency Medicine (if not done during PGY2 year)

Continuity clinic 1 full day per week every other month (elective month)