How to Apply: Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program

The NDD resident's primary goal is to complete clinical training in neurodevelopmental disabilities to function as a pediatric neurologist with specialty training in children’s developmental problems specific to the many complex situations that are beyond the scope of the general child neurologist, while meeting the requirements for board certification in neurology with Special Qualifications in Child Neurology, as well as Neurodevelopmental Disabilities from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

UT Southwestern offers a 6-year dual residency program which includes two years of ACGME-accredited residency training in Pediatrics at Children's Medical Center followed by four years of adult and pediatric neurology training, as well as neurodevelopmental disabilities. We also offer a 4-year advanced neurodevelopmental fellowship for candidates that will have completed preliminary training in pediatrics elsewhere.

Applicant Qualifications

  • Must have graduated from an approved American or Canadian medical or osteopathic school or hold permanent certification by the Qualification Board of the Educational Council for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) or USMLE.
  • Must be eligible for a Texas Physician-in-Training Permit.  
  • Must have completed one of the three options of pre-requisite training:
    • Two years of ACGME-accredited pediatrics residency training in the United States or Canada (this is included in our dual residency program)
    • A preliminary PGY-1 year (as described in the Program Requirements for Residency Education in Neurology, Section I.A.1) and one year of residency training in Pediatrics; or
    • One year of Pediatrics plus one year of Basic Neuroscience training.

Interview and Matching Process

The neurology match uses the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP). While we do not have a strict deadline for applications, we intend to finish interviews by January.

For highly-qualified applicants, there is a possibility for a 6-year position for training in Pediatrics and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Neurodevelopmental Disability Residency interview dates will take place October-January. Interviews will take place on Tuesdays, with pediatrics interviews coordinated for applicants offered interviews to both programs. The interview includes paid lodging at a local hotel, interviews with faculty, a facility tour, and a dinner with current residents.

The Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Residency Program accepts International Medical Graduates (IMG), but typically only sponsors J-1 visas. IMG applicants must have ECFMG certification prior to applying to our Residency Program.  

The Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Division takes all information into account when considering resident candidates, including medical school grades, USMLE scores, letters of recommendation, research performance, extracurricular activities, and interview. Currently, we offer one position per year.