What Kind of Education Is Required to Become a Doctor?

Becoming a physician in the United States requires generalized and specific education as well as licensing examinations. Generally the education consists of an undergraduate university degree, four years of medical school and several years in a residency program.

Undergraduate Degree

Most doctors first receive a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, though the specific field of study may vary. Undergraduate study should include a strong emphasis in mathematics and science, especially biology and chemistry, as well as English.

Medical School Admission

Admission to medical school usually requires an undergraduate degree with a high grade point average and acceptable scores on the standardized medical aptitude test (MCAT).

Medical School Curriculum

Medical school involves an additional four years of advanced study consisting of comprehensive instruction in every aspect of medicine.

Rotations

During the third and fourth years of medical school, candidates participate in a series of training sessions. These are known as rotations because they involve successive exposure to all the major medical specialties.

Residency

After graduation from medical school, doctors must complete at least three years of intense training in a hospital residency program. Depending on the specialty selected, the candidate may continue as a resident for as many as eight years.

References

• Education Portal: Requirements to Become a Doctor
• Association of American Medical Colleges: Admission to U.S. Medical Schools
• Association of American Medical Colleges: Making the Decision to Study Medicine