Program Overview
Size of Surgical Residency Program
TTUHSC will accept two categorical residents each year to the General Surgery Residency in Amarillo. Additionally, up to two preliminary residents will be selected for the first year, with an option to stay for an additional year as a PGY-2 preliminary resident. Residents will receive a broad experience in general surgery and its subspecialties over the course of five years. They will work closely with the faculty at TTUHSC in Amarillo, which includes nine fellowship-trained core faculty and multiple mid-levels.
Highlights: Robotics, surgical simulation, research opportunities, rural rotations and trauma centers
Laboratory Experience: SimCentral, lap trainer, cut suit, robot trainer, endoscopic, trainer
Certificates Offered: ATLS, ACLS, FES, FLS
Resident Program Aims
The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Department of Surgery Residency Program aims to produce the next generation of well-trained, balanced, compassionate and exemplary leaders in the field of general surgery by:
- Providing residents with opportunities to engage in basic and advanced surgical simulation and robotics training through a state-of-the-art simulation center located adjacent to the primary site, along with patient-centered education through procedural skills.
- Training residents to perform at the advanced level expected of a board-certified specialist through didactic instruction and education in operative techniques.
- Offering weekly didactic instruction on the basic and clinical sciences of surgical diseases and conditions to enhance knowledge and improve patient care.
- Requiring each resident to participate in peer-reviewed research with opportunities for local, regional, and national presentations of their work, as well as manuscript submission.
- Conducting the majority of clinical rotations at community hospitals, effectively preparing residents for independent practice in rural and community settings.
- Maintaining a balanced faculty-to-resident ratio to optimize the educational experience and equip residents with the necessary skills to excel as surgeons.
Population
Amarillo is a vibrant and diverse community of more than 200,000 people with multiple ethnic groups and languages spoken. Situated along Interstate 40 on the High Plains, Amarillo functions as a crossroads to the nation. TTUHSC in Amarillo services a very large geographical region that includes Eastern New Mexico, Western Oklahoma, the Texas Panhandle, Southeastern Colorado, and portions of Kansas; in total, TTUHSC serves a population of more than 600,000 people.
Citizens of Amarillo often say, “If you wear out a pair of shoes here, you won’t want to leave.” Amarillo is known for its welcoming atmosphere, strong community values and affordable cost of living. With abundant sunshine, a four-season climate and a small-town feel, Amarillo offers a high quality of life. Residents enjoy shopping on Historic Route 66, dining at local restaurants and exploring local breweries and wineries. Cultural highlights include the Amarillo Symphony Orchestra, Amarillo Little Theatre and performances at the Amarillo Civic Center and Starlight Ranch.
Sports enthusiasts can attend baseball games at Hodgetown, home of the Double-A Sod Poodles, or ice hockey games with the Amarillo Wranglers. Outdoor lovers will appreciate Wildcat Bluff, Palo Duro Canyon State Park and Lake Meredith. Skiing and mountain recreation are only a few hours away by car. Amarillo’s Rick Husband International Airport offers direct flights to several major cities.
Curriculum
Operative Experience: TTUHSC Surgery residents will perform a minimum of 850 surgeries to meet the American Board of Surgery licensing requirements. However, most residents will perform more than 1,200 surgeries during their training. Residents who choose TTUHSC will receive specialized trauma and critical care experience at NWTHS and BSA (including instruction from two fellowship-trained surgeons in burn care). Additionally, they will acquire invaluable experience at the Bariatric Surgery Center for Excellence.
Online Curriculum: SCORE
Dedication Education Day: Protected education time will occur each Friday from 7 a.m.—to 1 p.m. and will include morning report, M&M conference, science lecture or grand rounds, this week in SCORE, lunch & learn professional development and simulation lab. The following events will be hosted once per month: ABSITE review, journal club, research update and resident meeting.
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Rotation 1
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 4 weeksRotation 2
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 4 weeksRotation 3
Eval Topic: Breast & Plastics
Length: 4 weeksRotation 4
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER)
Length: 4 weeksRotation 5
Eval Topic: Crit Care
Length: 4 weeksRotation 6
Eval Topic: Vascular
Length: 4 weeksRotation 7
Eval Topic: Endoscopy
Length: 4 weeksRotation 8
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 4 weeksRotation 9
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 4 weeksRotation 10
Eval Topic: Crit Care
Length: 4 weeksRotation 11
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER)
Length: 4 weeksRotation 12
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 4 weeksRotation 13
Eval Topic: Elective
Length: 4 weeks -
Rotation 1
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER)
Length: 4 weeksRotation 2
Eval Topic: Crit Care
Length: 4 weeksRotation 3
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 4 weeksRotation 4
Eval Topic: Bariatrics
Length: 4 weeksRotation 5
Eval Topic: Oncology
Length: 4 weeksRotation 6
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 4 weeksRotation 7
Eval Topic: Plasticsc
Length: 4 weeksRotation 8
Eval Topic: Pediatrics
Length: 4 weeksRotation 9
Eval Topic: Thoracic
Length: 4 weeksRotation 10
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 4 weeksRotation 11
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 4 weeksRotation 12
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER)
Length: 4 weeksRotation 13
Eval Topic: Elective
Length: 4 weeks -
Rotation 1
Eval Topic: Breast
Length: 8 weeksRotation 2
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 8 weeksRotation 3A
Eval Topic: Vascular
Length: 4 weeksRotation 3B
Eval Topic: Pediatrics
Length: 4 weeksRotation 4
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 8 weeksRotation 5
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER)
Length: 8 weeksRotation 6
Eval Topic: Critical Care
Length: 8 weeksRotation 7
Eval Topic: Elective
Length: 4 weeks -
Rotation 1A
Eval Topic: Oncology
Length: 4 weeksRotation 1B
Eval Topic: Bariatrics
Length: 4 weeksRotation 2
Eval Topic: Abdomen
Length: 8 weeksRotation 3A
Eval Topic: Transplant
Length: 4 weeksRotation 3B
Eval Topic: Thoracic
Length: 4 weeksRotation 4
Eval Topic: Colorectal
Length: 8 weeksRotation 5
Eval Topic: Vascular
Length: 8 weeksRotation 6
Eval Topic: Critical Care (Chief)
Length: 8 weeksRotation 7
Eval Topic: Elective
Length: 4 weeks -
Rotation 1
Eval Topic: Trauma (ER) (Chief)
Length: 8 weeksRotation 2
Eval Topic: Abdomen (Chief)
Length: 16 weeksRotation 3
Eval Topic: Colorectal (Chief)
Length: 16 weeksRotation 4
Eval Topic: Vascular
Length: 4 weeksRotation 5
Eval Topic: Elective (Core Only)
Length: 4 weeksRotation 6
Eval Topic: Boards Fellowship
Length: 4 weeks
How to Apply
Application Requirements
View our SOM House Staff Policies and Procedures, SOM Administrative Policies, as well as a sample contract.
TTUHSC Amarillo Surgery Residency participates in the Electronic Residency Applications Service (ERAS) and NRMP. Applicants must submit applications through ERAS and register for the NRMP match. Our program follows all interview and matching policies set forth by the AAMC, ERAS, and the NRMP.
TTUHSC Amarillo Surgery Residency does accept foreign medical graduates from accredited medical schools. Graduates must receive their ECFMG certification prior to interviewing. Please note, U.S. clinical experience is preferred but not required.
The program’s screening criteria are intended to provide a fair evaluation of candidates’ ability to successfully complete our program.
Our program requires the following:
- Submit fully completed ERAS application and supporting documents by November 15th
- Current CV
- Personal Statement
- Dean’s Letter (MSPE)
- Four letters of recommendation
- Medical School Transcript
- USMLE or COMLEX Scores (Steps 1 & 2 must be passed within 3 attempts prior to the NRMP
- final match in March)
- ABSITE Scores (if applicable)
The Department of Surgery Review Committee will screen applications and supporting documents. If selected, you will receive an email with an invitation to interview. Our hybrid interviews will take place between October and January.
Salaries
| Salaries for 2026-2027 (These amounts are for the Amarillo Campus only) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGY-1 | PGY-2 | PGY-3 | PGY-4 | PGY-5 | PGY-6 |
| $56,263.32 | $58,099.36 | $59,934.03 | $61,767.34 | $63,600.56 | 65,436.71 |
| Previous Years' Salaries | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | PGY-1 | PGY-2 | PGY-3 | PGY-4 | PGY-5 | PGY-6 |
| 2025-2026 | $56,263.32 | $58,099.36 | $59,934.03 | $61,767.34 | $63,600.56 | $65,436.71 |
| 2024-2025 | $56,263.32 | $58,099.36 | $59,934.03 | $61,767.34 | $63,600.56 | $65,436.71 |
| 2023-2024 | $56,263.32 | $58,099.36 | $59,934.03 | $61,767.34 | $63,600.56 | $65,436.71 |
Benefits
Specific information pertaining to benefits is found in the House Staff Policies and Procedures.
Malpractice Insurance
Aggregates are $100,000 per incident and $300,000 annual aggregate. Professional Liability Division website or call (806) 743-9921
Health Insurance
Group Health/Dental/Vision insurance for residents and eligible dependents.
Workers' Compensation
Workers' Compensation website
Leave Policies
Paid leave shall be approved for not more than four work weeks for PGY-1 level, and not more than five work weeks for the PGY-2 level and above, subject to each respective residency program requirements and policies.
Leave types include:
- Vacation
- Sick Leave
- Family and Parental Leaves of Absence
- Educational Leave
- Jury Duty
- Military Leave not to exceed 15 working days per year
Salaries and Benefits Questions?
We are here to help. Please feel free to call or email us.
Amarillo Graduate Medical Education
Phone: (806) 414-9666
Fax: (806) 351-3787
Email: AmarilloGME@ttuhsc.edu
Events & Activities
Surgery Residency Kickoff & High School Surgery Events
Additional Resources
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Research
View faculty research from the last five years.
Get F.I.T. to Stay Fit - CPRIT Project PP210017
Get F.I.T. to Stay Fit is bringing education and clinical services to the Texas Panhandle to reduce the number of deaths from colorectal cancer — ultimately improving quality of life by detecting the disease in its early stages.
Scholarly Activity
The faculty at TTUHSC are active clinically and academically. Residents at TTUHSC will also be encouraged to publish clinical research. There are opportunities for collaborative activities with the TTUHSC School of Health Professions, TTUHSC School of Nursing, TTUHSC Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy and the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine, all located on the Amarillo campus.
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Dear Future Surgeons,
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) General Surgery Residency Program in Amarillo. As we prepare to launch our residency program in 2026, we are excited to embark on this journey that will not only shape the next generation of surgeons but also have a lasting impact on the health care landscape in the Texas Panhandle.
Our vision for this program is deeply rooted in a commitment to rural health and addressing the unique challenges of providing surgical care in underserved areas. As TTUHSC works to grow the health care workforce in the Panhandle, we are committed to establishing a robust surgical residency program at TTUHSC in the coming years. Training residents in the Panhandle will provide additional medical support at area hospitals while getting cutting-edge surgical training. Our focus is not just on creating exceptional surgeons, but on fostering a new generation of health care leaders who are dedicated to serving their communities.
One of the most exciting aspects of our program is the opportunity to be a pioneer in this region. As a resident in Amarillo, you will receive hands-on, personalized training in a variety of surgical specialties, with a particular emphasis on the unique needs of rural and underserved populations. You will be part of a groundbreaking initiative, learning from dedicated faculty members who are passionate about teaching, while working in a community that truly values and needs your contributions.
Our program is designed to provide a strong foundation in both the science and the art of surgery, with a focus on developing technical expertise, sound clinical judgment and a commitment to compassionate patient care. We are building a curriculum that emphasizes comprehensive training across a wide range of surgical disciplines, while also offering opportunities for research, professional development and leadership training.
I invite you to explore our program and consider joining us on this exciting journey. Together, we will make a lasting difference in the lives of our patients, and we will contribute to the future of healthcare in the Texas Panhandle.
Thank you for your interest in TTUHSC Amarillo. We look forward to welcoming our first class of residents in 2026 and to the many successful years of surgical training to come.
Sincerely,
Izi Obokhare, M.D.
Program Director, General Surgery Residency Program
Professor of Surgery
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at Amarillo -
Dear Prospective Residents and Colleagues,
Welcome to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) General Surgery Residency Program in Amarillo. As the Chair of the Department of Surgery, it is my privilege to introduce you to a residency program that embodies our deep commitment to surgical education, patient care, and innovative research.
At TTUHSC, we provide a comprehensive surgical training experience grounded in both academic rigor and hands-on clinical practice, ensuring that residents are prepared to excel in the dynamic and challenging field of surgery. Our program emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care, fostering the development of surgeons equipped with the skills, empathy, and adaptability necessary to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape.
Our esteemed faculty includes accomplished surgeons across various specialties who are fully dedicated to mentoring and guiding residents throughout their careers. Our department cultivates a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, teamwork, and lifelong learning. Whether your goal is to pursue academic surgery, subspecialty training, or private practice, our program will provide you with the resources and experiences you need to thrive.
TTUHSC Amarillo offers state-of-the-art facilities and access to innovative research opportunities, empowering our residents to contribute to advancements in surgery. Our diverse patient population provides exposure to a broad range of clinical cases, from common procedures to highly complex interventions, allowing residents to hone both their technical and decision-making skills.
We are thrilled about the future of our program and the opportunities it presents for our residents and faculty alike. I encourage you to explore our website to learn more about what makes TTUHSC Amarillo a special place to train. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for considering TTUHSC Amarillo for your surgical training. We look forward to welcoming you to our community.
Sincerely,
M. Haris Nazim, M.D.
Regional Chair and Professor of Surgery
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine at Amarillo
Contact Us
General Surgery Residency Amarillo
We're here to help. Contact us if you have questions.
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Address
1400 S. Coulter St.
Amarillo, TX 79106
United States
- Phone (806) 414-9605
- Email AmaSurgResidencyInquiries@ttuhsc.edu
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Hours
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday to Friday