4 year vs. 5 year programs

[Mr. Plow]

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I've noticed that some residency programs in path are 4 yrs and some are 5yrs. I've also often read that the fifth year is often for credentialing reasons. Has this credentialing requirement changed and are more programs headed towards four year programs? Thanks.

 

[GreatPumpkin]

The 5th year changed a couple years ago. I am the last class that is required to do a 5th year (lucky me). So when I finish the class behind me will finish as well. Woo hoo twice the numbers of graduates looking for jobs and fellowships (lucky me).

🙄

 

[Mr. Plow]

GP - Thanks for the reply. You are referring to the changes in the American Board of Pathology certification reqs, right? I just happened to see the bold print: "...residents who began pathology training in 2002 or later will not have a credentialing year requirement." I am interested in getting into an APCP program and noticed that some are 4 years and others are 5 years. Granted I pass my third year clerkships, I will graduate in spring of 2005. Do you know if most, if not all, APCP programs will become 4 years by the time of my graduation in response to the new ABOP reqs?

 

[Ludy]

Almost all AP/CP programs are 4 years now. Many websites/program brochures still say 5 years because they haven't been updated, but I only know of one program that may be 5 years for AP/CP (and that's because they require a year in the lab doing research; it was a 6-year program before).

 

[Doctor B.]

I know great pumpkin, doesn't it suck that we'll have twice the number of folks competing for jobs and residencies?? I'm one year below you so you all get the advantage of one extra year of training 🙂.