# How Long Does It Take to Become a Gastroenterologist?
Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the digestive system. A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in treating these conditions. If you’re considering becoming a gastroenterologist, you may be wondering how long it takes to become one.
In this article, we’ll discuss the steps required to become a gastroenterologist, how long each step takes, and what you need to know to get started. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about becoming a gastroenterologist.
## Steps to Become a Gastroenterologist
Becoming a gastroenterologist is a long and intensive process, but with dedication and hard work, it can be an incredibly rewarding career. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to become a gastroenterologist.
### 1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a gastroenterologist is to earn a bachelor’s degree. While there is no specific degree required to become a gastroenterologist, most aspiring gastroenterologists pursue a degree in a field like biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. This degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to pursue medical school.
How long does it take to earn a bachelor’s degree? Generally, it takes four years to earn a bachelor’s degree. However, it can take longer depending on the type of degree you’re pursuing and your academic performance.
### 2. Take the MCAT
Once you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree, you’ll need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT is a standardized test that is used to assess applicants’ knowledge of science and critical thinking skills. It is required by most medical schools to gain admission.
The MCAT is typically taken in the spring of the year prior to the year in which you plan to apply to medical school. It takes about six to eight weeks to prepare for the MCAT, but the actual test takes about seven and a half hours to complete.
### 3. Apply to Medical School
After you’ve taken the MCAT, you’ll need to apply to medical school. Each medical school has its own set of requirements, so be sure to research the specific requirements of the schools you’re interested in. Generally, you’ll need to submit an application, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and MCAT scores.
The application process typically takes several months, and you’ll need to wait for acceptance letters from the schools you applied to.
### 4. Complete Medical School
Once accepted, you’ll need to complete medical school. Medical school typically takes four years to complete, although some programs offer accelerated three-year programs. During medical school, you’ll learn about anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and other medical topics. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in clinical settings.
### 5. Complete a Residency
After medical school, you’ll need to complete a residency in order to become a gastroenterologist. A residency is a supervised, hands-on training program that provides you with experience in the medical field. Most residencies last three to five years, depending on the specialty.
During your residency, you’ll gain experience in treating patients, diagnosing diseases, and performing procedures. You’ll also take board exams and complete additional training in the specialty of your choice.
### 6. Become Board Certified
Once you’ve completed your residency, you’ll need to become board certified in order to practice gastroenterology. Board certification is a process that involves passing a series of exams and demonstrating your knowledge and skills in the specialty. Generally, it takes two to three years to become board certified.
## How Long Does It Take to Become a Gastroenterologist?
In total, it takes between 11 and 16 years to become a gastroenterologist, depending on the length of the residency. This includes four years of undergraduate school, four years of medical school, and three to five years of a residency. Additionally, it may take two to three years to become board certified.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Gastroenterologist
### FAQs on Becoming a Gastroenterologist
#### What Degree Do You Need to Become a Gastroenterologist?
You don’t need a specific degree to become a gastroenterologist. However, most aspiring gastroenterologists pursue a degree in a field like biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. This degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to pursue medical school.
#### How Long Does Medical School Take?
Medical school typically takes four years to complete. However, some programs offer accelerated three-year programs. During medical school, you’ll learn about anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and other medical topics. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in clinical settings.
#### How Long Does It Take to Become Board Certified?
It typically takes two to three years to become board certified. Board certification is a process that involves passing a series of exams and demonstrating your knowledge and skills in the specialty.
#### What Is a Residency?
A residency is a supervised, hands-on training program that provides you with experience in the medical field. Most residencies last three to five years, depending on the specialty. During your residency, you’ll gain experience in treating patients, diagnosing diseases, and performing procedures. You’ll also take board exams and complete additional training in the specialty of your choice.
## Conclusion
Becoming a gastroenterologist is a long and intensive process, but with dedication and hard work, it can be an incredibly rewarding career. In total, it takes between 11 and 16 years to become a gastroenterologist, depending on the length of the residency. This includes four years of undergraduate school, four years of medical school, and three to five years of a residency. Additionally, it may take two to three years to become board certified.
If you’re considering becoming a gastroenterologist, it’s important to understand the steps required and how long each step takes. With the right preparation and dedication, you can become a successful gastroenterologist.
