BECOMING A DOCTOR FROM PAGE 2

process outlined refers to licensure in the United States.

Undergraduate degree

The path to being a doctor starts at a four-year undergraduate program, says Indeed. Students may get their degrees in Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Psychology, or even Nursing. Data assembled by the American Association of Medical Colleges showed that, in 2019, 58 percent of those who took the Medical College Admissions Test majored in biological sciences. Medical schools have a significant number of academic prerequisites and likely will require premed classes in college, so it’s essential to find a college that can accommodate this career path.

Participate in extracurricular activities

The road to medical school is competitive, so applicants should set themselves apart with résumés that include activities that go beyond study. These activities will help candidates appear well-rounded.

Take MCATs and get into school

The Medical College Admission Test are akin to the Graduate Record Examinations (GREs) for aspiring medical students. Med schools use the MCAT to screen applicants, so it is essential for premeds to do well.

Medical school is an additional four-year commitment. Aspiring physicians can attend researchoriented institutions or those that focus on primary care. They also can choose between Medical Doctor or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees. Both programs include a mix of clinical rotations and medical science courses.

Residency

The University of Medicine and Health Sciences says newly licensed doctors need to go through several additional years of post-graduate training in specialties of their choosing, called medical residency, after graduating from medical school. This program takes place in a hospital or academic setting. Residency can be an additional three to seven years, depending on the specialty.

Exam

Following a residency, doctors need to take exams for the states in which they plan to practice medicine.

It can take 11 to 15 years to become a physician. Patience, knowledge and perseverance is required to become a licensed doctor.