What Are the Educational Requirements of Becoming an Oncologist?
An oncologist is a medical doctor who examines, researches, diagnoses and treats cancer cells and malignant tumors. In order to legally become an oncologist an individual is required to obtain a significant amount of education.
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Undergraduate Degree
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Prior to beginning any medical training, prospective candidates must complete a bachelor's degree. Common fields of study include pre-med, science and biology.
Medical Degree
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Once an undergraduate degree has been completed, a candidate must be accepted into an accredited medical education institution. These programs typically take up to five years to complete. Graduates are awarded an MD (Medical Doctor) degree.
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Internship
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After successfully completing medical school, students must participate in clinical internships. This gives these individuals the opportunity to gain practical knowledge following their theoretical studies.
Residency
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Once a medical degree has been completed, graduates must participate in an accredited residency program within an accredited oncology center, such as a hospital. The residency allows the prospective oncologist to obtain on the job education within their specialty.
Board Certification
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The successful completion of a certification examination is the final requirement to becoming licensed as an oncologist.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Yuya Tamai
