# How to Become a General Doctor – FAQs on Becoming a Medical Doctor
Aspiring medical students who want to become general doctors should understand the educational and licensing requirements for practicing medicine. Becoming a general doctor requires dedication and hard work. In this article, we discuss the steps one should take to become a general doctor and answer some of the frequently asked questions about the process.
## Introduction
Becoming a general doctor involves three main steps: completing a Bachelor’s degree, obtaining a medical degree, and completing a residency program. After completing these steps, doctors must become licensed to practice medicine.
## Completing a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step in becoming a general doctor is to complete a Bachelor’s degree. It is important to complete a degree that covers the basic sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and physics. Many medical schools require applicants to have earned a Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field, such as biology or chemistry.
## Obtaining a Medical Degree
The next step in becoming a general doctor is to obtain a medical degree. A medical degree is typically earned after four years of study at a medical school. During medical school, students learn about anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and other medical sciences. Medical students also learn how to diagnose and treat illnesses.
## Completing a Residency Program
After graduating from medical school, aspiring doctors must complete a residency program. During a residency program, doctors work in a hospital or clinic under the supervision of experienced physicians. Residency programs typically last three to seven years, depending on the specialty. During this time, doctors learn how to diagnose and treat illnesses and gain experience in the medical field.
## Becoming Licensed
The final step in becoming a general doctor is to become licensed to practice medicine. Each state has its own requirements for becoming licensed, but most states require doctors to pass a medical board exam. After becoming licensed, doctors can start practicing medicine.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a General Doctor
### What qualifications are required to become a general doctor?
To become a general doctor, one must have a Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field, such as biology or chemistry. Additionally, one must obtain a medical degree and complete a residency program. Finally, one must become licensed to practice medicine.
### How long does it take to become a general doctor?
It typically takes around 11 years to become a general doctor. This includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of medical school, and three to seven years of residency, depending on the specialty.
### What is the difference between a general doctor and a specialist?
A general doctor is a medical doctor who can diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries. A specialist is a doctor who has received additional training in a specific area, such as cardiology or oncology. Specialists focus on the treatment of specific illnesses or injuries.
### What is the job outlook for general doctors?
The job outlook for general doctors is positive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of physicians and surgeons is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
### What is the salary of a general doctor?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physicians and surgeons was $208,000 in 2019. This salary can vary depending on the region and the type of practice.
Becoming a general doctor is a lengthy process that requires dedication and hard work. After completing a Bachelor’s degree, obtaining a medical degree, and completing a residency program, aspiring doctors must become licensed to practice medicine. With the right training and experience, general doctors can enjoy a rewarding and lucrative career.
