Medical Doctor degree requirements

The requirements for becoming a doctor in the U.S. may vary by specialty. In general, doctors complete a 4-year undergraduate degree program, spend four years in medical school and then complete 3-7 years of residency training, before they are eligible for medical licensing.
Required Education | Bachelor's degree and medical school |
Other Requirements | Residency training and medical licensing |
Projected Job Growth | 18% from 2012-2022* |
Median Salary (2014) | $111, 630 annually* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
The educational requirements to become a medical doctor in the United States include obtaining two degrees and a clinical residency. Both degree programs typically include general medical coursework, while prospective doctors can choose a specialty later, during their residencies.
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Completing a bachelor's degree program is necessary to prepare prospective doctors to enter medical school. Though medical schools do not require specific degrees for admission, many students opt for programs heavy in biology and chemistry. Some schools offer specific pre-med programs that include the required classes for medical school, as well as prepare them to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Common courses in a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology program include:
- Chemistry
- Biological studies
- Physics
- Human genetics
Medical College Admission Test
The MCAT is a multiple-choice examination that students must pass before they are admitted to medical school. Physical science, biology, critical thinking, verbal skills and writing abilities are all tested in a 5-hour computerized test. Most medical schools use this score when considering applicants for admission, so it's important to score well to be considered for top programs.
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