CASIT

Education

Surgical education & training at CASIT

CASIT is accredited as a Level I Comprehensive Education Institute by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), providing surgeons access to cutting-edge technology to refine their technical skills in a collaborative environment. For residents, we offer simulation-based training and performance assessments that meet the American Board of Surgery’s certification requirements across multiple specialties. 

Beyond professional training, CASIT partners with the UCLA Volunteers Office to host a week-long summer immersion program, inspiring high school students interested in medical or surgical careers. Explore our specialized programs:

Fellowship Program
Residency Program
FLS & FES Testing
Surgical Simulation
Surgical Science Lab
Professional Events
Four surgeons in operating room

Medical Education & Simulation Fellowship

CASIT offers a prestigious 2-year fellowship focused on surgical education and simulation research. This program equips trainees with the skills and hands-on experience needed to lead innovations in surgical education. Fellowship goals include:
  • Training leaders in surgical education.
  • Conducting high-quality research in simulation.
  • Fostering pioneering teaching methodologies
Two residents practice surgery on a simulator

General Surgery Residency: Robotic Surgery Training Program

Led by Dr. Jonathan King and Dr. Mark Girgis, the UCLA General Surgery Residency Robotic Surgery Training Program utilizes CASIT’s state-of-the-art facilities. Since 2015, this month-long intensive program, held bi-annually, has provided residents with hands-on experience through:

  • Cadaver Dissections
  • Live-Animal Surgeries
  • Ex-Vivo Tissue Models

This research-driven approach advances resident education and drives technological innovation. 

Trainees practice laparoscopic surgery using a simulation box

Fundaments of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery (FLS & FES) testing

UCLA is a credentialed site for both Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) and Fundamentals of Endoscopic Surgery (FES) testing.

As an official testing center accredited by the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), we provide residents with the opportunity to register for these essential exams, helping them develop and validate their minimally invasive surgical skills.

Trainees practice surgery in wet lab

Surgical simulation training

Through our partnership with the UCLA Simulation Center, CASIT offers residents access to sophisticated technology for surgical skills training. Courses are available for medical students, nursing students, residents, fellows, faculty, other healthcare professionals and non-clinical support staff and administrators. Our simulation-based modules include:

  • Virtual Reality Simulations
  • Dry Lab Models
  • Wet Lab Bio Tissue Drills

These resources create a safe environment for transitioning from simulation to actual operative experience.

Student performs endoscopy on a mannequin simulator

Surgical Science Laboratory courses

CASIT, in partnership with the Surgical Science Laboratory at UCLA, offers specialized courses to enhance surgical skills and medical training. Programs range from trauma management and ultrasound techniques to faculty assessment and board preparation. The High School Pre-Med Summer Scholars Program also fosters early career exploration.

  • Hands-on training: Focused on trauma care, surgical exposure, and ultrasound-guided procedures.
  • Comprehensive learning: Courses support students, faculty, and surgeons at all career stages.

 

People watching presentation at the inaugural Wound Care Symposium

Networking & professional development events

CASIT hosts a wide range of seminars, conferences, and networking events throughout the year, providing valuable opportunities to engage with industry leaders, collaborate on cutting-edge projects, and stay informed on the latest advancements in surgical technology and education. Notable events include:

  • Annual Wound Care Symposium: Featuring a multidisciplinary faculty and discussions on the latest innovations in wound care.
  • International Delegations of Health Professionals: Fostering global collaboration and knowledge exchange.