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UNC School of Medicine

ABR Alternate Pathway for International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

The UNC Department of Radiology is committed to fostering global talent through the ABR Alternate Pathway. This four-year pathway is designed for exceptionally qualified radiologists trained outside the U.S. or Canada to achieve American Board of Radiology (ABR) certification while contributing to our clinical, educational, and research missions.

Why UNC?

  • Collaborative academic environment in Chapel Hill.
  • Diverse subspecialty exposure.
  • Pathways toward faculty appointments (Instructor/Assistant Professor) for eligible candidates.
The Four-Year Rule: To qualify for the ABR Diagnostic Radiology (DR) exams, IMGs must complete four years of continuous or discontinuous training at an ACGME-accredited institution.
• Retrospective Credit: Up to 24 months of retrospective credit may be awarded by the ABR for prior training (subject to approval).
• UNC Residency Integration: While distinct from the standard residency, Alternate Pathway trainees are integrated into our high-volume clinical services.

The Alternate Pathway at UNC is supported by our comprehensive suite of subspecialty fellowships. Trainees typically rotate through these divisions or complete year-long fellowships in specific areas:

  • Abdominal Imaging: Focuses on high-level cross-sectional exams (CT/MRI/US) of the liver, kidneys, and transplant imaging.
  • Breast Imaging: A comprehensive 12-month program covering all facets of breast health, including mammography, US, and MRI-guided procedures.
  • Cardiothoracic Radiology: Specialized training in cardiac MRI, Coronary CTA, and complex thoracic pathology.
  • Advanced Cardiac Imaging Fellowship:
  • Emergency Imaging: Training in the rapid interpretation of acute trauma and critical care imaging.
  • Musculoskeletal (MSK) Imaging: Interpretation of radiographs, CT, and MRI, alongside bone/soft tissue biopsies and joint injections.
  • Neuroradiology: Advanced training in brain, spine, and head/neck imaging.
  • Neurointerventional Radiology: A 24-month specialized program for minimally invasive neurovascular procedures.
  • Advanced Cardiac Imaging Fellowship: A specialized track focusing on complex cardiovascular pathology. Training includes dedicated experience in Cardiac CT (Coronary CTA), Cardiac MRI (CMR), and advanced post-processing techniques. Rotations  will be offered in Nuclear Cardiac Imaging & Vascular Imaging.
  • Cross-Sectional Imaging Fellowship: A comprehensive program emphasizing high-level diagnostic skills in CT, MRI, and Ultrasound. Fellows develop proficiency in protocol design, advanced 3-D imaging techniques, and percutaneous image-guided interventions across adult and pediatric populations.
  • Interventional Radiology (IR): Offers both Integrated and Independent pathways, focusing on image-guided therapies and oncology.
  • Interventional Oncology Fellowship: Fellows will learn the entire spectrum of Oncologic Imaging, including hepatobiliary, musculoskeletal, genitourinary, and vascular procedures. Trainees will also participate in our morning conferences with the remainder of the IR department.

For inquiries regarding the ABR Alternate Pathway or specific fellowship positions, please contact Virginia B. Carver, Fellowship Coordinator.

Department of Radiology UNC School of Medicine Old Clinic Bldg, CB #7510 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7510 Website: med.unc.edu/radiology/education