What are some important statistics around the specialty? 

Dermatology has consistently been a sought after and competitive field. According to the National Residency Match Program Charting Outcomes in the Match: U.S. MD Seniors, 2024, 70% of U.S. MD Seniors applying in dermatology matched. For the students who matched, the mean USMLE step 2 score was 257. Per responses from Program Directors, medical student performance evaluation (MSPE/Dean’s letter), letters of recommendation in the specialty, and grades in required clerkships are the top three criteria used to select who to offer interviews to.

What general advice do you have for someone choosing this specialty?

Dermatology is a fascinating specialty that offers a mix of medical and surgical treatments. Specialty training includes the clinical evaluation and treatment of adults and children as well as substantial use of biopsies, pathology and procedures. Procedures include biopsy, cryotherapy, surgery, office tests like potassium hydroxide preparations for fungus, scraping for parasites, patch testing for allergies, lasers, and cosmetics.

What are the top three areas that students can focus on to help prepare themselves for a successful residency application and a successful transition to residency? (i.e. grades/academics, professionalism, any of the categories listed above, etc.)?

Dermatology is a highly competitive specialty, so focusing on key areas during medical school can set you up for a successful residency application and a smooth transition into training. The top three areas to prioritize: 

1. Academic Excellence 

• Strong Grades & Exam Scores: Gain exposure to dermatologists teaching in the MS1 and MS2 curriculum. High academic performance in your clerkships, electives and USMLE Step 2 are crucial for residency selection. 

2. Clinical Experience 

• Shadowing & Rotations: Seek out shadowing opportunities in MS1 and MS2, including during Capstones, to explore the specialty. Seek out electives in dermatology (home and away) and in related specialties to gain hands-on exposure, demonstrate your commitment to the field, and connect with mentors/advocates to write letters of recommendation. 

3. Set Yourself Apart with Research, Leadership and/or Service Follow your passion and gain experience in areas of dermatology that interest you: 

• Research & Publications: Dermatology applicants frequently have research exposure. Quality is more important than quantity. Drive a project from start to finish. You can get involved in case reports, clinical research, or dermatology or related studies to strengthen your application.
• Leadership: Demonstrate leadership by your actions in an established organization or found your own organization. • Service: Volunteer with local, national and/or international programs to advance dermatology care and awareness. Building relationships with dermatology faculty and professionals can open doors to research projects, service opportunities, and career guidance.

What resources would you share with a student who is just starting to research their interest in this specialty and/or wants to learn more specifics of this specialty (anything from what a typical day may look like to specifics on rotations, specialty specific residency info, fellowships)?

1. Professional Organizations & Websites 

• The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) offers educational materials, residency guidance, and mentorship programs for medical students. https://www.aad.org/member/education/residents/medical-students
• The Dermatology Interest Group Association (DIGA) provides networking opportunities, research guidance, and specialty-specific advice. https://derminterest.com/
• The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix has dermatology-specific resources for medical students, including specialty advising and residency application tips. https://phoenixmed.arizona.edu/dermatology/for-students 

2. Research & Educational Materials 

• It is particularly helpful to review the Doctoring Skin Module and the AAD Basic Dermatology Curriculum modules prior to your dermatology elective.
• Dermatology textbook by Bolognia is free/available through Clinical Key on the University of Arizona Health Sciences Library website 

3. Residency Guidance 

• Residency Explorer: Helps students compare dermatology residency programs and understand match statistics.
• NRMP Charting Outcomes: Provides insights into characteristics of students who successfully match into dermatology. 

4. Hands-On Experience 

• Rotations: Seek out dermatology and related electives to gain practical exposure.
• Conferences & Workshops: Attending dermatology conferences can help you network and stay updated on advancements in the field. See the events tab on the Department of Dermatology website.

What subspecialties exist with this specialty?

Several dermatology subspecialties offer fellowship training and board certification. 1. Dermatopathology 2. Pediatric Dermatology 3. Mohs Micrographic Surgery Other fellowships include: research, immunodermatology, and cutaneous oncology.

What does a typical workday or work week look like (hours/schedule/shifts, work setting, team based environment, acuity, etc.)?

A dermatologist’s workday typically involves a mix of patient consultations, procedures, and administrative tasks. Here’s a general breakdown: 

Work Hours & Schedule 

• Most dermatologists work 8 to 10 hours per day, typically from 8 AM to 5 PM.
• They may see 30 to 50 patients per day, depending on the practice setting.
• Some dermatologists work four to five days a week, with occasional weekend or evening hours. 

Work Setting 

• Private Practice: Many dermatologists run their own clinics, managing both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
• Hospital-Based: Some work in hospitals, treating complex skin conditions and collaborating with other specialists.
• Academic & Research Settings: Those in academia may split time between patient care, teaching, and research.
• Teledermatology: Increasingly popular, allowing dermatologists to diagnose and treat patients remotely. 

Team-Based Environment 

• Dermatologists often work with nurses, physician assistants, medical assistants, and administrative staff to manage patient care efficiently.
• In hospital settings, they collaborate with oncologists, rheumatologists, and surgeons for specialized cases. 

Patient Acuity & Case Variety 

• Cases range from routine skin exams and acne treatments to complex autoimmune skin disorders and skin cancer surgeries.
• Some days involve quick consultations, while others may focus on longer surgical procedures like Mohs surgery. 

Administrative & Research Duties 

• Dermatologists spend time reviewing patient files, ordering lab tests and biopsies, reviewing results and handling paperwork.
• Those in academic settings may dedicate time to research, writing grants, attending conferences, and publishing studies.

What are the important traits, qualities, and/or considerations recommended for physicians in this specialty?

Dermatologists require a mix of medical expertise, interpersonal skills, and adaptability to succeed in the field. Here are some key traits and considerations: 

1. Strong Analytical & Diagnostic Skills 

• Dermatology involves recognizing subtle skin changes, requiring keen observational skills.
• Physicians must differentiate between common conditions and rare disorders, often based on visual 

2. Excellent Communication & Empathy 

• Skin conditions can significantly affect a patient’s self-esteem and mental health. 
• Dermatologists must convey information clearly, address concerns sensitively, and build trust with patients. 

3. Precision & Attention to Detail

• Accurate diagnose requires attention to detail. Many dermatologic procedures require precision, whether performing biopsies, cosmetic treatments, or surgery. 

4. Adaptability & Lifelong Learning 

• Dermatology continuously evolves with new treatments, technology, and research.
• Staying updated on emerging medical science and therapies in dermatology is crucial. 

5. Patient Rapport 

• Many dermatologic conditions require long-term management and follow-up, requiring building a strong patient rapport.

How does the specialty work differ in various settings (e.g. a private vs community vs an academic environment)?

Dermatology can be practiced in different settings, each offering unique work environments, patient populations, and responsibilities. Here’s how they compare: 

1. Private Practice Dermatology 

• Work Environment: Dermatologists in private practice often run their own clinics or join group practices. They have more control over their schedule and patient load.
• Patient Population: Typically sees a mix of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology patients.
• Responsibilities: Focuses on outpatient care, elective procedures, and aesthetic treatments. Business management is also a key aspect. 

2. Community-Based Dermatology 

• Work Environment: Community dermatologists work in hospitals, clinics, or federally funded health centers, often serving underserved populations.
• Patient Population: Treats a broader range of medical dermatology cases, including complex skin conditions in diverse populations.
• Responsibilities: Focuses on medical dermatology, preventive care, and public health initiatives. 

3. Academic Dermatology 

• Work Environment: Academic dermatologists work in university-affiliated hospitals and medical schools.
• Patient Population: Often sees complex cases referred from other physicians.
• Responsibilities: Balances clinical care, teaching medical students and residents, and conducting research.

What does training for this specialty look like (how many years, is a separate prelim year needed, etc.)?

Dermatology residency training typically lasts four years: 

1. Preliminary Year (PGY-1) – A one-year internship in internal medicine, surgery, or a transitional program is required before entering dermatology residency.
2. Dermatology Residency (PGY-2 to PGY-4) – A three-year specialized dermatology residency follows, focusing on medical, pediatric, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology and dermatopathology. 

Some dermatologists pursue fellowships for additional subspecialty training. Mohs surgery, dermatopathology, and pediatric dermatology are fellowships which offer board certification. Other fellowships include: research, immunodermatology, and cutaneous oncology. 

What types of experiences might strengthen my future residency application, especially in areas of service, leadership, and research? 

Strengthening your dermatology residency application requires a well-rounded approach that highlights your commitment to the field. Here are key experiences that will enhance your application in service, leadership, and research: 

1. Service & Community Engagement

• Free Clinics & Outreach Programs: Volunteer at dermatology or general medical clinics that serve underserved communities.
• Skin Cancer Screenings: Participate in public health initiatives, such as melanoma awareness campaigns or free skin cancer screenings.
• Advocacy & Health Education: Create or join initiatives that educate the public on dermatologic health, sun protection, or skincare for marginalized groups. 

2. Leadership & Professional Involvement 

• Dermatology Interest Groups: Lead the UACOMP Dermatology Interest Group to organize educational events and networking opportunities.
• Medical Student Government or Societies: Take on leadership roles within student organizations related to dermatology or healthcare advocacy.
• Organizing Conferences & Workshops: Help coordinate dermatology symposiums or workshops, demonstrating initiative and collaboration. 

3. Research & Academic Contributions 

• Clinical & Laboratory Research: Engage in dermatology research, whether through case reports, clinical trials, or laboratory work.
• Publications & Presentations: Aim to publish papers, contribute to dermatology journals, or present findings at conferences like the SID Annual Meeting.
• Mentored Projects: Work with dermatology faculty on academic projects or innovative studies. Balancing these experiences will showcase your dedication to dermatology and make your application stand out. 

Is there a specialty interest group?  If not, what other networking options would you recommend?  Are there any specific national organizations or committees I should join?

Yes, there is a local and national specialty interest group: 

• U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix Dermatology Interest Group https://www.uacomps.org/orgs/dig
• National Dermatology Interest Group Association https://derminterest.com/ 

There is a wide range of national and international organizations in dermatology for you to explore based on your interests: American Academy of Dermatology, Society for Investigative Dermatology, Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance, Skin of Color Society, Women’s Dermatologic Society, Medical Dermatology Society, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Skin Association, Melanoma Research Foundation, National Alopecia Areata Foundation, National Rosacea Society, Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation, American Society for Photobiology, International Eczema Council, International Pachyonychia Congenita Consortium, International Psoriasis Council, American Acne Rosacea, Immunosuppression Transplant Skin Cancer Collaborative, American DermatoEpidermiology Network, American Hair Research Society, and many more. 

What advice would you offer MS1s and MS2s who are interested in this specialty?

If you're a first- or second-year medical student interested in dermatology, you have a great opportunity to start preparing early for a competitive and rewarding specialty! 

• Join our email list https://mailchi.mp/e6c89d83a19f/dermatology-interest-form
• Email Dr. Karen Hastings, Dermatology Specialty Advisor at khasting@arizona.edu to let her know of your interest
• Engage with dermatology faculty in the pre-clinical curriculum: attend sessions in-person, volunteer to participate in interactive sessions, ask questions during or after class, introduce yourself and your interest in dermatology after class.
• Participate with Department of Dermatology events phoenixmed.arizona.edu/dermatology/events
• Join the UACOMP Dermatology Interest Group and explore resources from the National Dermatology Interest Group Association
• Explore medical student resources from the American Academy of Dermatology https://www.aad.org/member/education/residents/medical-students
• Identify dermatology mentors among UA faculty and community dermatology professionals
• Identify a dermatology opportunity for PALS block.
• Apply for research funding and mentorship https://phoenixmed.arizona.edu/sites/default/files/depts/dermatology/medical-student-grant-opportunities-050925.pdf
• See recommendations provided by the Skin of Color Society: https://skinofcolorsociety.org/files/SOCS24_Timeline_for_App_Derm_02.08…

How and where can I find other mentors for this specialty?

In addition, to a local mentor, explore mentorship opportunities at your undergraduate institution and through the national societies below. 

• The Medical Dermatology Society (MDS) Mentorship Program offers mentorship opportunities for residents, fellows, and junior faculty. Participants can shadow senior dermatologists and receive funding for mentorship experiences. https://meddermsociety.org/mentorship-program/
• The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Mentorship Database allows medical students and residents to find mentors based on location and specialty interests. https://www.aad.org/member/career/li/mentor/find
• The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) also offers a Diversity Mentorship program: https://www.aad.org/member/career/awards/diversity
• The Skin of Color Society Mentorship Program connects students and residents with experts in dermatology, particularly those specializing in skin of color. They also offer observership grants to support mentorship experiences. https://skinofcolorsociety.org/what-we-do/mentorship

Is there anything else in addition to the suggestions above that could aid my future application, now that Step 1 is P/F?

Since USMLE Step 1 is now pass/fail, other aspects of your dermatology residency application have become even more important. Here’s what you can focus on to make your application stand out: 

1. Strong Performance on Step 2 CK 

• Step 2 CK remains scored, so aim for a high score—it plays a bigger role in distinguishing candidates.
• Since dermatology is competitive, a strong Step 2 CK score can boost your application.

2. Research & Publications 

• Engage in dermatology research, whether case studies, clinical trials, or literature reviews.
• Publishing articles and presenting at conferences (like the SID Annual Meeting) strengthens your academic profile.

3. Clinical Excellence & Letters of Recommendation 

• Excel in dermatology rotations and electives—strong evaluations from dermatologists help secure impactful recommendation letters.
• Seek letters from dermatologists with a national reputation who can speak to your clinical skills. 

4. Leadership, Service & Extracurricular Involvement 

• Take on leadership roles in dermatology interest groups, advocacy organizations, or student-led initiatives.
• Organizing dermatology workshops or community outreach programs can demonstrate initiative.
• Involvement in professional dermatology organizations adds value. 

5. Networking & Mentorship 

• Participate in local dermatology events and grand rounds as well as national meetings for professional exposure. See the Department of Dermatology website Events tab. Also, consider presenting a poster at a national meeting such as the Society for Investigative Dermatology. Attending a small national meeting allows you to connect with dermatology faculty and residents to gain insights into residency selection criteria.
• Having mentors who advocate for you can help secure interviews and research opportunities. 

6. Holistic & Well-Rounded Application 

• Programs look beyond scores—they value compassionate, motivated, and well-rounded applicants.
• Demonstrating clinical skills, professionalism, and dedication to dermatology is key.

Which group and association memberships might strengthen my future residency application (e.g., AOA, GHHS, MSG, Specialty specific groups, etc.)? 

Recognition by the Gold Humanism Honor Society and participation in specialty specific groups that match your interest in dermatology. See multiple options above.

How important are Step 2 scores to this specialty?

Vital

Are publications important to this specialty? Is there a general number of publications or presentations I should be aiming for?  How important is it for these to be within the specialty I am pursuing?

Yes, publications are important for matching into dermatology, as dermatology is one of the most competitive specialties. Research experience and publications can significantly strengthen your application. Additionally, you want to make yourself stand out, so pick projects that align with your interests. Successful dermatology applicants tend to have a high number of research items. A systematic review found that matched applicants had an average of 14.77 total scholarly works, including abstracts and presentations, with 3.23 peer-reviewed indexed publications. including abstracts and presentations, with 3.23 peer-reviewed indexed publications. If you're aiming for a competitive dermatology residency, focusing on dermatology-related research and aiming for at least a few peer-reviewed publications would be ideal. In addition to formal publications, presenting at conferences allows you to network and can enhance your profile.

Are there any special considerations when applying for residency?

Here are some considerations for selecting which residency programs to apply to. Apply to a combination of reach/dream/top 10 programs, programs you expect to be competitive for, and less competitive programs. Apply to all programs, that you are interested in, in our geographic area (CA, UT, CO, NM, TX) and areas that you have family ties to. Pay attention to the size of the programs to be sure to maximize the numbers of spots that are applying to. Apply to a mix of community and academic programs, unless you are focused on preparing for an academic career. Identify programs that are a particular fit for your clinical, research, service or educational interests. 

What is a general recommendation for how many programs to apply to (recognizing that this may vary based on student situation)?

You should apply to the number of gold and silver signals plus any programs that you are interested in which either interview students who have not signaled or do not participate in signaling. For the 2025 ERAS Application Season, dermatology had 3 gold and 25 silver signals. Use Residency Explorer to view data for the percentage of applicants that receive interviews by signaling option by program.

What letters of recommendation are recommended for this specialty (e.g. from research, physicians within this specialty, academic, etc.)

For dermatology residency, strong letters of recommendation can significantly impact your application. Here are some key considerations: 

• Number of letters: Most programs require three letters, though some may accept four.
• Who should write your letters?: Ideally, your letters should come from: 

1) Dermatology faculty: At least two letters from dermatologists, from your home electives or away rotations, who can speak to your clinical skills in dermatology. A letter from a dermatology with a national reputation can carry additional weight provided that they know you well and can provide specific examples to write a strong letter. 

2) Clinical faculty: A strong recommendation from an internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics or pathology member can be beneficial. 

3) PhD mentor: MD/PhD students should include a letter from their PhD mentor. 

• Content: Letters should highlight your clinical skills, work ethic, self-initiative, dependability, ability to work as part of a team, communication skills, research potential, inquisitive nature, and commitment to dermatology and patient care. A personalized, detailed letter is more impactful than a generic one. 

If other disciplines are appropriate for letter of recommendation writers, are there specific specialties you would strongly recommend?

Medicine, surgery, pediatrics, pathology; Research if you did a PhD

How competitive are the residency programs in this specialty?

Dermatology residency programs are highly competitive, with a limited number of spots and a large pool of self-selected highly qualified applications. An additional consideration is the small size of many programs. According to the NRMP Charting Outcomes, 70% of US MD Seniors applying in dermatology matched. Given the competitiveness of dermatology , it is recommended that students dual apply in two distinct specialties. 

When do programs typically offer interviews?

Dermatology residency programs typically conduct interviews between November and January. Many programs follow a coordinated interview invite release schedule, with initial invitations sent out in early November and additional rounds in late November and December. To find specific interview dates for programs: 1) Check the program's official website. Many institutions post their interview schedules online. 2) Look at professional dermatology organizations, such as the Association of Professors of Dermatology (APD), which provides updates on interview timelines. 

What is UA COM-P's history with matching in this specialty?

UACOMP history with matching in dermatology is at or above the national average.

Are away rotations required for this specialty and if so, when should I plan to do them?

Away rotations are not required for dermatology residency, but they can be beneficial, especially for applicants without a home dermatology residency. Away rotations provide opportunities to gain additional exposure, build relationships with faculty, and strengthen your application. Also, remember that the entire away rotation is an interview, and that only the top performers at away rotations receive interviews. 

Key considerations for away rotations in dermatology: 

• Students can consider 1-3 away rotations
• Away rotations are typically completed early in the final year of medical school to allow time for letters of recommendation and networking. If a letter of recommendation is not needed, it can be helpful to complete an away rotation after residency applications have been submitted and before rank lists are finalized.
• If you need a letter of recommendation, check the policies of the away rotation, as not all away rotations will provide a letter of recommendation.
• You should target away rotations at programs that you would be competitive at for residency application.
• Applications for dermatology away electives typically open in the spring of the year before residency applications, though some open as early as January prior to residency applications. Most programs use the VSLO system. Deadlines vary by institution, but many programs have rolling admissions, meaning earlier applications have a better chance of securing a spot.
• If you are especially interested in an away elective at a particular institution, apply for each elective offered, e.g. outpatient dermatology, inpatient dermatology, pediatric dermatology.
• Acceptance for away electives is competitive. It can be helpful to have your letter of recommendation writer contact the program(s) on your behalf.
• Contact Dr. Hastings, if you are interested in an away elective at UACOMT.
• UACOMP students frequently complete away rotations at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Honor Health, and UACOMT.