Frequently Asked Questions

We completed our Initial Accreditation Site Visit with CODA on March 14, 2024. We expect to be reviewed during CODA’s biannual review meeting in July and hope to be granted a status of Initial Accreditation at that point. We will then begin interviewing and recruiting for our inaugural class of residents starting during the AY 2024-2025 recruitment season, for a projected start date of July 2025!

Our program will recruit 2 categorical positions each year for a total complement of 8 positions. 

Absolutely, the Willis Knighton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program is invested in the growth, development, and success of our residents. The office of GME will support resident publication and presentation at local, regional, and national conferences in accordance with institutional practices. 

For highly qualified international graduates, their applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

We sponsor J-1 visas on a case-by-case basis for qualified applicants. 

Orientation begins on June 27^th. The academic year for PGY-1 residents begins on July 1^st. 

Willis Knighton has a proud tradition of educating medical students, and recently has expanded their academic affiliations to include both allopathic and osteopathic schools, including:

• LSU School of Medicine – Shreveport, LA
• Tulane University School of Medicine – New Orleans, LA
• New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYIT) at Arkansas State – Jonesboro, AR
• Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (ARCOM) – Fort Smith, AR
• Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) at ULM – Monroe, LA

Medical students from these institutions will be working with our residents, and the program will also provide regular education for Residents as Teachers (RasT). 

Students who have successfully completed year two of dental school may apply for our 1–4-week externship program. This program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to observe all aspects of the specialty, including ambulatory and inpatient settings. Residents and staff will directly supervise the students in a variety of experiences, including, but not limited to:

• Pre-rounding and consults
• Daily rounds
• Trauma and ER call with residents
• Observing operating room and clinic cases/ visits
• Participation in departmental seminars/meetings

• Complete Externship Application
• Letter of recommendation from the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at your dental school.
• A letter from your dental school confirming coverage under their malpractice insurance plan during your entire rotation. Please include policy number and amount of coverage.
• Please provide a letter outlining your objectives for the externship.
• Proof of health insurance and current required immunizations/vaccines, including COVID-19, TB, and flu.
• Recent photograph to be used for badges/identification.