Clinical Observership Program
The Clinical Observership Program at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) offers short-term, observation-only educational experiences for students and trainees. It involves shadowing on the inpatient wards or outpatient clinics and attending didactics. This program does not include hands-on activities or direct patient care.
Observerships range from one day up to three months, subject to faculty availability and sponsorship within the Department of Neurology.
Step 1: Determine Faculty Mentor Availability
Applicants must first identify whether a faculty sponsor is available.
Please email neurology_observership@cuimc.columbia.edu with the following materials:
- Training level
- Personal Statement (300 words or fewer): Please explain why you are applying to the program, how participation will support your career goals, and highlight any relevant skills or experiences.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Subspecialty interest (if applicable)
- Desired rotation duration and months (see Observership Terms below)
Applicants will be notified if a faculty sponsor is available and the specific experiences that will be part of the observership experience.
Observership Terms and Deadlines
|
Term |
Rotation Months |
Deadline to Inquire About Faculty Sponsor |
Notification Date |
|
Fall |
October–November |
May 15 |
June 15 |
|
Winter |
January–February |
August 15 |
September 15 |
|
Spring |
March–April |
October 15 |
November 15 |
|
Summer* |
July–August |
February 15 |
March 15 |
*Summer observerships are limited to high school and college students only.
Step 2: Submit Materials to Human Resources
Once accepted, applicants must submit the required documentation to CUIMC Human Resources.
Email neurologyhr-fa@cumc.columbia.edu to obtain registration paperwork.
Acceptance into the program is contingent upon successful completion of the following (as applicable):
- Medical clearance
- Drug screening
- Background check
The required processing fee must be paid at the time of submitting the application to HR. The rotation fees must be paid on the first day of arrival. Payment may be made by a certified check. Checks should be made payable to: Columbia University Irving Medical Center – Neurology
Observership Categories and Fees
- Universal Processing Fee: $500 (one-time, non-refundable) to be given at the time of the application
- Rotation Fees
|
Applicant Type |
Availability |
Duration |
Monthly Fee |
|
High School Students |
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer |
Up to 3 months |
None |
|
Columbia University Undergraduates |
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer |
Up to 3 months |
None |
|
External College Students |
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer |
Up to 3 months |
$500 |
|
Post-Baccalaureate Students |
Fall, Winter, Spring |
1–3 months |
$1,000 |
|
MD / PhD Candidates |
Fall, Winter, Spring |
1–3 months |
$2,000 |
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be considered on a case-by-case basis for applicants who demonstrate financial hardship or special circumstances.