Ophthalmology Residency
Leaders in Ophthalmology
Our program prepares residents to become leaders in the field of ophthalmology.
Excellence in Ophthalmology Training
Thank you for your interest in the U-M Medical School Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Ophthalmology Residency program at the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center.
The Ophthalmology Residency program prepares residents to become leaders in the field with extensive education in comprehensive ophthalmology and broad exposure to all major ophthalmology subspecialties. Residents receive dedicated time, mentorship, and funding for scholarly pursuits, including research and global ophthalmology, with flexibility to tailor training to individual career goals.
Training takes place in a collaborative, collegial environment using state-of-the-art facilities at Kellogg Eye Center and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Seven residency positions are offered each year.
Learn about the unique features of our residency program.
Program Highlights
- Joint Internship with Internal Medicine: The program includes a joint internship with the Department of Internal Medicine, featuring three months of eye care training. The PGY1 program provides an opportunity to develop ophthalmic clinical and surgical skills, as well as participate in ambulatory and urgent care. Additional goals include team building with residents and faculty and systems-based care at Michigan Medicine and the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, allowing for a seamless transition to the PGY2 year.
- Michigan Ophthalmology Trainee Career Development Award (MOTCDA): Merit-based funding is available for faculty-mentored projects in clinical care delivery, education, health administration, basic science, clinical and translational research, and international health. Since 2013, Kellogg residents have received more than 30 MOTCDA grants and have participated in outreach and research projects in Nepal, the United Kingdom, Italy, Taiwan, India and Ethiopia, and Jamaica.
- Ophthalmology Resident International Rotation/Education Program: Through the Jerome Jacobson Global Program at the Kellogg Eye Center, residents have the opportunity to gain international experience through on-site rotations with global partners. Residents work with mentors at Kellogg and at our partner institutions around the world on research projects while observing the delivery of eye care in other countries.
- Education Training Center: The Education Center offers a cutting-edge, 2,500‑square‑foot environment designed to elevate ophthalmology training. Residents benefit from advanced video integration, modern wet lab microscopes, a comprehensive surgical skills curriculum, and the EyeSi simulation platform. Flexible conference and study spaces, along with a well-equipped lounge, supporting both learning and wellness. The center fosters collaboration, hands‑on practice, and continuous skill development in a highly interactive setting
Salary & Benefits
We offer highly competitive salaries and generous benefits to our residents, fellows, and advanced trainees. Trainee salary will be commensurate with that of a House Officer at an equivalent level of training based on the HOA contract.
Why Train With Us
The Ophthalmology Residency Program is nationally recognized for excellence and offers a robust, well-rounded training experience. Consistently ranked among the top programs in the country, Kellogg combines outstanding clinical education with innovative program features designed to prepare residents for leadership in ophthalmology.
National Rankings
- # 1 in Michigan: U.S. News & World Report Best Adult Ophthalmology Hospitals, 2025-26
- # 8 in the United States: U.S. News & World Report Best Adult Ophthalmology Hospitals, 2025-26
- #9 in the United States: Doximity Residency Navigator, 2025-26
Hear From Our Residents
Alexa Thibodeau, MD, Class of 2022 graduate, highlights the program’s strong clinical and surgical training, early hands-on experience, distinguished faculty across all subspecialties, and the unique benefits of training at major referral centers—including the Ann Arbor VA—where residents gain autonomy, confidence, and exposure to complex cases early in residency.
Alexa Thibodeau, MD, PGY-3 ophthalmology resident, shares why she chose to train at the Kellogg Eye Center.
Meet Our Residents
Current Residents
The Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at the U-M Medical School is comprised of a diverse and dedicated team. Under the expert guidance of faculty, residents develop skills that equip them to exceed the highest standards of patient care and research.
Recent Graduates
Alumni from the Ophthalmology Residency program graduate to become leaders in the field across clinical care, education, and research. Get to know our recent graduates and learn about the career paths of our past trainees.
Program Leadership
Ariane Kaplan
Laura Gwyn, BBA, C-TAGME
Danielle Wilson, MHSA
See Where Training Takes Place
Our campus offers numerous spaces and facilities dedicated to academic learning, research and clinical care, including specialty clinics, research labs and more. We provide a collaborative and innovative environment for education, research and patient care.
Our Community
Feel at home in Michigan. Explore what it’s like to live, learn and grow in Ann Arbor among a diverse and supportive network of leaders in ophthalmology and discover all of the resources and services available to you.
