University of Maryland Program

Program Identity & Fit

University of Maryland's ophthalmology residency is a university-affiliated academic program built around a broad clinical network spanning the UM Faculty Practice, Midtown Campus, Baltimore VA, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, and Greater Baltimore Medical Center, giving residents exposure to trauma, comprehensive, and subspecialty ophthalmology across differing patient populations. Surgical training is progressive and structured, with PGY-2s beginning intraocular/extraocular subspecialty cases, PGY-3s emphasizing primary cataract surgeon experience at the VA and Midtown, and PGY-4s rotating through retina and cornea while carrying back-up call, supported by simulation (EyeSi) and dedicated ophthalmic OR technology (Alcon CONSTELLATION, INFINITI). Research is a mandatory component (every resident completes a project, presented at the Richard D. Richards symposium and national meetings), with active bench and clinically-relevant projects mentored by faculty, though the department's stated outcome emphasis is on residents securing competitive fellowships and succeeding in both academic and community settings. The program presents itself as a collegial, teaching-centered department with a long institutional history, valuing close faculty-resident relationships and a broad comprehensive-to-subspecialty training arc over a narrow research-only identity.