Training Pathway

Like most pediatric subspecialties, becoming an NDD physician takes 6-7 years of post-graduate training (after graduating from medical school).


The training typically includes:

  • 2 years of an ACGME-accredited categorical pediatric program
  • 12 months of adult neurology training
  • 18 months of clinical child neurology and neurodevelopmental disabilities
  • 18 months of clinical and basic science education (includes child psychiatry, neurological surgery, neurorehabilitation, neurophysiology, neuroradiology, research, neuropathology, as well as other options)


There is also the option of a 1 year clinically focused NDD fellowship for child neurology-trained physicians.

 

2-3 Years of Pediatric Training

Pediatric training teaches you to learn about the origins of child development. You get experience diagnosing and managing a wide range of childhood illnesses and conditions, from common infections to complex chronic diseases. You develop the basic skills in patient communication, family education, and advocacy to provide holistic care for children and their families.

12 Months of Adult Neurology Training

Adult neurology training helps you understand neurological disorders across the entire lifespan. This training provides a comprehensive foundation, enabling you to recognize and treat neurological conditions. Additionally, it equips you with broader diagnostic and treatment skills, enhancing your ability to provide holistic and long-term care for patients.

18-24 Months of Child Neurology Training

You learn to diagnose and manage a wide range of neurological disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. You gain proficiency in performing and interpreting neurologic examinations, electroencephalograms (EEGs), and neuro-imaging studies. Additionally, you develop skills in collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care and support for children with complex neurological needs and their families.

12-18 Months of Neurodevelopment Training

Neurodevelopment training focusing specifically on diagnosing and managing developmental and intellectual disabilities with a greater emphasis on genetic conditions, emphasizing longterm developmental outcomes and behavioral interventions.

Categorical NDD Programs

A categorical program refers to a combined residency and fellowship in which the acceptance guarantees all 6 years without the need to re-apply. This includes 24 months of pediatric training and 48 months of education in neurodevelopmental disabilities. This does not necessarily mean you will be at the same place for all 6 years (e.g. the pediatric program can be different than the neurology program). However, most programs will be at the same locations.

Sample Schedule

Advanced/Reserved NDD Programs

A reserved NDD program is one 4 year fellowship that can be matched in after at least 2 years of an ACGME approved pediatric residency is completed. An advanced NDD program is the same except you apply for it when you apply for your initial pediatric residency as well. This will still consist of 12 months of adult neurology, 18-24 months of child neurology, and 12-18 months of neurodevelopmental training. This can be acquired during the initial application cycle when you apply for pediatric residency, but can also occur after or even during pediatric residency training.

Sample Schedule

1 Year NDD Fellowship Programs

A 1 year NDD fellowship can be taken after a successful completion of an ACGME accredited child neurology program. This consists of 12 months of training in a multidisciplinary team approach while treating children with chronic neurological disabilities. At least 50% of the training will involve caring for pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental disabilities.

Sample Schedule

Questions?