What Degrees Do I Need to Become a Dermatologist?

Dermatologists are skin experts.

Dermatologists are physicians who focus on the health and care of the skin, including diagnosing and treating disorders. Additionally, they may treat issues with a person's hair, nails and sweat glands. To become a dermatologist, individuals must fulfill strenuous educational and training requirements.

Education

Dermatologists must have a bachelor's degree from a four-year accredited college before entering medical school. Upon graduation from medical school, the prospective dermatologist receives a medical degree (M.D.). In order to enter medical school, the student must have undergraduate instruction in the sciences. Many students who wish to become dermatologists pursue a bachelor's degree in a science or a pre-medicine. Passing the MCA (Medical College Admission Test) is also required for medical school admission.

Dermatologists can also consider obtaining a master's or doctor's of science in dermatology. In order to be eligible to complete a doctorate or master's in dermatology,students need an M.D.

Residency

The next step after medical school is a residency program. The program gives the dermatologist hands-on outpatient and inpatient experience. During the residency, dermatologists study subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, embryology, genetics, bacteriology, histology, and molecular biology. A three-year accredited program must be completed within a five-year period.

Board Examination

In order to be licensed, dermatologists must complete a board examination. The test consists of questions regarding dermatopathology, which gauges competency in microscopic examination. They must also complete a written multiple-choice exam that evaluates knowledge on subjects such as pediatric dermatology, internal entomology, photobiology, pharmacology, and other dermatological subjects. During the test, the candidate is also shown images and microscopic slides that they must correctly identify.

Continuing Education Courses

According to the Health Care Training Center, dermatologists are required to take continuing education courses. Without continuing education courses, dermatologists may not able to renew their licenses.

Dermatologists must also understand how to work with a variety of technology. For example, dermatologists may use laser therapy to remove age spots or reduce skin discoloration. This is especially true for dermatologists who work in cosmetic dermatology, which is a growing and popular field.

References

• State University: Dermatologists Job Description
• Health Communities: What is a Dermatologist?
• Health Care Training Center: Dermatology School

Resources

• The American Board of Dermatology: Board Examination