Our robust, comprehensive program aims to:

Deliver patient-centered care in all situations and environments
Develop and nurture self-directed, lifelong learning and improvement in all aspects of patient care
Create and disseminate new knowledge regarding ophthalmology
Strive toward the highest standard of integrity through transparency and honesty
Understand and support the needs of the visually impaired
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of diagnostic modalities as well as clinical and surgical diseases

Message from Our Director

In the Department of Ophthalmology, our low faculty-to-resident ratio, high surgical volume and diverse patient population create a well-rounded residency experience with supportive mentorship and early exposure to surgical training.

We hear it from interviewees all the time: “You all feel like a family.” That's because in addition to robust, comprehensive training, we pride ourselves in fostering a uniquely collegial environment where all faculty, staff and trainees work and learn alongside one another.

It is a joy and an honor to help shape the next generation of skilled, confident and compassionate ophthalmologists, and we look forward to meeting you on your journey.

Vikram S. Brar, M.D.

Program Overview

Residents in our three-year program treat a diverse patient population and gain extensive surgical experience, with 100% faculty supervision in all clinics, laser and minor procedure suites and operating rooms. Trainees also produce independent research projects each year, which can be presented at a national meeting and a year-end research day conference.

We aim to produce well-trained, ethical and compassionate physicians and surgeons who are prepared for fellowship positions, full-time academic appointments and successful careers in private practice. We accept four residents each year through the San Francisco Match.

Learn about our curriculum and clinical rotations

Combined Internship

In collaboration with the Department of Internal Medicine, we now provide a combined ophthalmology internship, which includes three blocks of ophthalmology training during PGY-1. Those who match to our program are required to complete their internship training at VCU. Benefits of the integrated curriculum include:

Curriculum co-created by the program directors of both internal medicine and ophthalmology, which aims to provide a background in medicine as it will apply to a career in ophthalmology
Attaining familiarity with our health system and culture
Working alongside your future referring physicians
Development of knowledge and skills that will facilitate a rapid transition into the ophthalmology residency program

About Richmond

We encourage our trainees to maintain a healthy, balanced life, and Richmond is a wonderful place to engage in that well-rounded lifestyle.

As a mid-sized city with a metropolitan population of 1.3 million, Richmond provides stimulating activities while maintaining its intimate feel and unique vibe.

Learn more about our community

How to Apply

The Department of Ophthalmology selects four residents each year through the San Francisco Match’s Ophthalmology Residency Matching Program. We receive more than 500 applications each year and typically invite about 60 applicants for a personal interview.

We extend interview invitations via the SF Match. Residents applying will start their joint intern year at VCU the following academic year. Matching into our combined internship with internal medicine occurs later through the National Resident Matching Program, however a separate interview process is not required.