Integrated Thoracic Surgery Residency

Established in 1928 as the first organized thoracic surgery residency program in the United States, the University of Michigan has a proud tradition of leading the way in surgical education. Built on a legacy of learning, our Integrated Thoracic Surgery Residency (I-6) program offers a six-year pathway that equips residents with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in today’s evolving field of cardiothoracic surgery. Under the guidance of world-renowned faculty, residents gain unparalleled experience in the latest surgical techniques and innovations, preparing them to become future leaders in the field.

The program is designed for medical students who are committed to pursuing a career in cardiothoracic surgery. Rather than completing general surgery training and then beginning a separate residency in cardiothoracic surgery, trainees will enter a cardiothoracic residency directly out of medical school. The six-year program includes a variety of rotations in the early years, including general surgery, critical care, cardiac imaging, and other relevant surgical and non-surgical specialties. This format has become the educational standard for thoracic surgical residency training. 

With unmatched expertise in performing some of the most complex cardiac and thoracic cases, our program offers trainees exposure to high-acuity procedures that few institutions can provide. Residents benefit from hands-on experience with these challenging cases while also taking advantage of a wealth of clinical and research opportunities.