Becoming a doctor is no easy feat. It takes years of hard work and dedication to become a licensed physician. On average, it takes 11 to 17 years of post-secondary education and training to become a doctor. In this article, we’ll go into detail about the steps it takes to become a doctor, the length of each step, and the time it takes to become a qualified doctor.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor?
It takes approximately 11 to 17 years of post-secondary education and training to become a doctor. This includes completing a four-year bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, one year of a supervised internship, and three to eight years of specialty training. The amount of time it takes to become a doctor varies depending on the type of medical specialty chosen.
Steps to Become a Doctor
Before you can become a doctor, you must first complete the following steps:
1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a doctor is to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. This degree should ideally be in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, physics, or a related field.
2. Take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)
The next step is to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). This is a standardized test that is used to assess a student’s knowledge of the sciences and their ability to think critically. The MCAT must be taken before you can apply to medical school.
3. Apply to Medical School
Once you have completed your bachelor’s degree and taken the MCAT, you can apply to medical school. The application process typically takes up to one year and includes submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays.
4. Complete Medical School
Medical school typically takes four years to complete. During this time, students will take classes in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and other medical-related topics. Students will also complete clinical rotations in hospitals and other medical settings.
5. Complete a Supervised Internship
Once medical school is completed, students must complete a supervised internship. This typically takes one year to complete and consists of working in a medical setting under the supervision of a qualified physician.
6. Obtain a Medical License
Once the internship is completed, students must take and pass a licensing exam in order to obtain a medical license. This exam is typically administered by the state in which the student is seeking licensure.
7. Complete Specialty Training
The final step is to complete specialty training. Depending on the specialty chosen, this can take three to eight years to complete. Specialty training includes completing additional clinical rotations, taking additional exams, and completing a fellowship.
FAQs on How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor
1. How long does it take to become a doctor?
On average, it takes 11 to 17 years of post-secondary education and training to become a doctor. This includes completing a four-year bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, one year of a supervised internship, and three to eight years of specialty training.
2. What degree do I need to become a doctor?
In order to become a doctor, you must first obtain a four-year bachelor’s degree. This degree should ideally be in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, physics, or a related field.
3. Do I need to take the MCAT?
Yes, in order to apply to medical school, you must take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). This is a standardized test that is used to assess a student’s knowledge of the sciences and their ability to think critically.
4. How long does medical school take?
Medical school typically takes four years to complete. During this time, students will take classes in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and other medical-related topics.
5. Do I need to take a licensing exam to become a doctor?
Yes, once medical school is completed, students must take and pass a licensing exam in order to obtain a medical license. This exam is typically administered by the state in which the student is seeking licensure.
6. How long does specialty training take?
Specialty training can take three to eight years to complete, depending on the specialty chosen. Specialty training includes completing additional clinical rotations, taking additional exams, and completing a fellowship.
Conclusion
Becoming a doctor takes a great deal of dedication and hard work. On average, it takes 11 to 17 years of post-secondary education and training to become a qualified doctor. This includes completing a four-year bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, one year of a supervised internship, and three to eight years of specialty training. It is important to understand the steps and the length of each step in order to plan for the amount of time it will take to become a doctor.
