Education has been an important goal of the Department of Surgery since its inception nearly 100 years ago. Early in the 20th Century, the Department’s surgeons began offering training in general surgery, urologic surgery, plastic surgery and thoracic surgery.

Today, the General Surgery Residency Program continues to play a predominant role in surgical education at Washington University School of Medicine. It is one of the most selective programs in the country and keeps pace with changes in technology and competency requirements as it allows residents input into their individual educations.

The Department’s residency programs in surgical specialties match the General Surgery Residency in prominence and innovation. The Department also was an early leader in creating new fellowship programs for surgical specialties.

In addition to the General Surgery Residency, the Department now offers 12 specialized residencies and fellowships. Click on the side menu to learn more about these programs.