General Surgery | Education

General Surgery Clerkship Elective

The Section of General Surgery invites medical students in their clinical clerkship to do a general surgery elective at the University of Calgary.  In this 2-4 week elective, the clerk will work with a general surgery team of consultant surgeons, fellows, and/or residents at one of the University of Calgary teaching hospitals.

Rotation Structure

• Local and visiting electives:  2-week rotations
• Core general surgery rotations: 3 weeks (2 weeks preceptor-based and 1 week with ACESS).
• Locations:  Foothills Medical Centre, Peter Lougheed Centre, Rockyview General Hospital, or South Health Campus.  

Learning Experience

Students will gain experience in general surgical practice across multiple sub-specialties and settings, which may include:

• Outpatient clinics
• Inpatient ward management
• Consultations (inpatient & ER)
• Operating room

Participation in an on-call schedule is expected and will be scheduled by the preceptor and resident upon arrival for the elective.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this elective, the clerk should understand:

1. The principles and structure of general surgery practice in Calgary.
2. The principles and structure of general surgical training, including specifics related to the Calgary training program.
3. Basic general surgical management and skills appropriate for entry into a surgical residency.

How to Apply

Medical students wishing to arrange a clerkship elective in general surgery at the University of Calgary should contact the Surgical Clerkship Office for information. Additional information can be found on the AFMC Student Portal. 

General Surgery CaRMS: Electives

Completing an elective with the General Surgery program in Calgary is a valuable component for a CaRMS application. It demonstrates initiative, genuine interest in the program, and alignment with our clinical and academic environment.

Benefits of the Elective

• Gain firsthand experience with our surgical training culture, team dynamics, and patient care approach.
• Helps both the applicant and the program assess mutual fit.
• Strengthens your application by showcasing commitment, professionalism, and a proactive approach to surgical education.
• Learn more about the training program by arranging a meeting with the program directors during your elective.

Alternative Options

Given the finite nature of elective opportunities, not all candidates will have the opportunity to do an on-site elective. This does not exclude applicants from being offered an interview. If an elective cannot be scheduled, applicants are invited to set up a meeting with the program directors to discuss the program and express interest in lieu of elective opportunities.

How to Arrange a Meeting

Please contact program coordinators Erin Layton and Amy Jeffery to set up an online meeting with our program directors.