Surgery Residency Program

Welcome to the General Surgery Residency Program at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine!

We are proud to offer a fully ACGME-accredited General Surgery Residency Program led by the dedicated full-time faculty of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. In addition, approximately 25 skilled faculty and community surgeons contribute to the training and mentorship of our residents, creating an unparalleled clinical and academic environment. Notably, Dr. Paul C. Bown, our Program Director, along with several of our teaching faculty, are proud alumni of this very program who have returned to help shape the next generation of surgeons.

Now entering its 68th year, our five-year program accepts four categorical residents per postgraduate year (PGY), along with three preliminary interns. This class size fosters a close-knit, collaborative culture where residents form strong bonds and support one another through the challenges and rewards of surgical training.

Our program is deeply committed not only to clinical and academic excellence, but also to resident well-being. We have developed a range of wellness initiatives, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources to help residents maintain a healthy work-life balance, build resilience, and thrive throughout their training. Integral to this commitment is our emphasis on community engagement, providing residents meaningful opportunities to give back while fostering a sense of purpose and connection beyond the hospital walls.

We are proud of the accomplishments of our residents and the strength of our training program, reflected in recent highlights:

100% first-time pass rate on the ABS Qualifying Exam for 2024 graduates.
40% of residents earned commendations for exceptional performance on the ABSITE.
2025 graduates matched into competitive fellowships in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Burn, and Surgical Critical Care; one joined the US Navy as a General Surgeon.
Graduating residents over the past two years have averaged 1200 operative cases, well exceeding the ACGME minimum of 850.
Two residents were recognized as GME Resident of the Month over the past academic year.
Success at the West Virginia Chapter of the American College of Surgeons Meeting, including recognition in abstract presentations, Surgical Jeopardy, and simulation competitions.
Residents represented our program at local, state, regional, and national conferences, presenting research and participating in professional events.

As you explore programs this interview season, we invite you to learn more about what makes our training environment unique. Please browse our website and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.

We look forward to supporting you on your journey to becoming a surgeon.

Warm regards,
General Surgery Residency Program Leadership Team