## How Long Does it Take to Become an Orthopedic Doctor?
Orthopedic doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the body’s musculoskeletal system. It takes a great deal of time and dedication to become an orthopedic doctor. This article will explain the process involved in becoming an orthopedic doctor, from the time it takes to the steps required to become certified.
### Introduction
It takes an average of 13 years of education and training to become an orthopedic doctor. This includes a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, a five-year residency in orthopedic surgery, and a one-to-three-year fellowship. After that, you must pass the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) certification exam and obtain a state license in order to practice as an orthopedic doctor.
### Steps to Becoming an Orthopedic Doctor
The path to becoming an orthopedic doctor involves several steps.
#### Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step towards a career in orthopedic surgery is to earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. A bachelor’s degree is not required for medical school admission, but it is recommended in order to be competitive.
#### Step 2: Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam that tests a student’s knowledge of the sciences and verbal ability. It is required for admission to medical school.
#### Step 3: Attend Medical School
After completing a bachelor’s degree and passing the MCAT, the next step is to attend medical school. Most medical schools require a four-year program that includes classroom instruction, clinical rotations, and hands-on experience.
#### Step 4: Complete a Residency in Orthopedic Surgery
After graduating from medical school, the next step is to complete a five-year residency in orthopedic surgery. During residency, the student will gain experience in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and injuries.
#### Step 5: Complete a Fellowship
After completing a residency, the student can pursue a fellowship in a specialty area of orthopedic surgery. This can range from one to three years depending on the specialty.
#### Step 6: Pass the ABOS Exam
After completing a residency and/or fellowship, the student is eligible to take the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) certification exam. This is a comprehensive exam that tests the student’s knowledge and skills in orthopedic surgery. Passing the ABOS exam is required for practicing orthopedic surgery in the United States.
#### Step 7: Obtain a State License
The final step in the process is to obtain a state license. Each state has its own licensing requirements, so the student must research the requirements for their state before applying for a license.
### Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming an Orthopedic Doctor
##### FAQs on Becoming an Orthopedic Doctor
**Q. What is the process to become an orthopedic doctor?**
A. The process to become an orthopedic doctor involves completing a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, a five-year residency in orthopedic surgery, and a one-to-three-year fellowship. After that, you must pass the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) certification exam and obtain a state license in order to practice as an orthopedic doctor.
**Q. How long does it take to become an orthopedic doctor?**
A. It takes an average of 13 years of education and training to become an orthopedic doctor.
**Q. What degree do I need to become an orthopedic doctor?**
A. You will need to earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics before attending medical school.
**Q. What exams do I need to take to become an orthopedic doctor?**
A. You will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) certification exam.
**Q. Do I need a state license to practice as an orthopedic doctor?**
A. Yes, you will need to obtain a state license in order to practice as an orthopedic doctor. Each state has its own licensing requirements, so the student must research the requirements for their state before applying for a license.
### Conclusion
Becoming an orthopedic doctor is a long and challenging process that requires a great deal of dedication and hard work. It takes an average of 13 years of education and training to become an orthopedic doctor, including a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, a five-year residency in orthopedic surgery, and a one-to-three-year fellowship. Passing the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS) certification exam and obtaining a state license are also necessary to practice as an orthopedic doctor.
