6 answers
Daniela
Student
Raleigh, North Carolina
1
Question
Asked
516 views
what do you need to become a neurologist?
Hey so we are doing a project and I was wondering what do you need to become a neurologist? What classes or what type of degrees would you need to gain a higher salary. In addition what helps gain admission to your graduate degree program?
Login to comment
6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1327
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Damiela! Becoming a neurologist is a journey that takes dedication, passion, and a whole lot of brainpower — literally! The path usually starts with earning a bachelor’s degree in a science-based field like biology, chemistry, or neuroscience. While you're in college, focus on getting great grades and getting involved in extracurriculars like research, volunteering at hospitals, or joining science clubs. This shows medical schools you're serious and passionate about the field.
Next up is medical school, where you'll spend four years diving deep into the world of medicine. Getting in isn't just about grades — schools also look at your leadership skills, community service, and how well you connect with people. The MCAT exam is a big hurdle here, so studying hard for that is key.
After med school, you'll do a residency in neurology, usually lasting about four years. This is where you'll really learn the ins and outs of treating patients with brain and nervous system conditions. If you want to specialize even further — like becoming a pediatric neurologist or focusing on epilepsy — you can do an extra fellowship.
The whole journey can take about 12-14 years after high school, but if you're passionate about understanding how the brain works and helping people with complex health issues, it's absolutely worth it. Along the way, staying curious, compassionate, and determined will help you stand out and find your place in the field.
Taking advanced science classes in high school, shadowing doctors, or even watching online neurology lectures could give you a little sneak peek into the world you had be dreaming of.
All the best hope this helps.
Next up is medical school, where you'll spend four years diving deep into the world of medicine. Getting in isn't just about grades — schools also look at your leadership skills, community service, and how well you connect with people. The MCAT exam is a big hurdle here, so studying hard for that is key.
After med school, you'll do a residency in neurology, usually lasting about four years. This is where you'll really learn the ins and outs of treating patients with brain and nervous system conditions. If you want to specialize even further — like becoming a pediatric neurologist or focusing on epilepsy — you can do an extra fellowship.
The whole journey can take about 12-14 years after high school, but if you're passionate about understanding how the brain works and helping people with complex health issues, it's absolutely worth it. Along the way, staying curious, compassionate, and determined will help you stand out and find your place in the field.
Taking advanced science classes in high school, shadowing doctors, or even watching online neurology lectures could give you a little sneak peek into the world you had be dreaming of.
All the best hope this helps.
Alexandra Grossano
Dietetic Technician Registered
6
Answers
Scottsdale, Arizona
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Step 1: Graduate from High School/get a GED
Step 2: Science-Based Bachelors Degree
Step 3: Take the MCAT to get into medical school (earn your MD or DO)
Step 4: Residency program (3-4 years)
Step 5: Fellowship in Neurology (optional)
Step 6: Board Certification in Neurology
Step 2: Science-Based Bachelors Degree
Step 3: Take the MCAT to get into medical school (earn your MD or DO)
Step 4: Residency program (3-4 years)
Step 5: Fellowship in Neurology (optional)
Step 6: Board Certification in Neurology
Thank you so much for the advice.
Daniela
Dr kumneger Assefa
Emergency medical doctor
3
Answers
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Updated
Dr kumneger’s Answer
Alexander has provided the answer with steps to become specialist in neurology. For me I just want to give you one short answer, be determinate and focused on your dream and then the money will come flowing.
Alright I will keep this in mind thank you :)
Daniela
Victor Oluwatobi Ajiboye, MD
Medical Practitioner
1
Answer
Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria
Updated
Victor Oluwatobi’s Answer
Your dreams are Valid. If you can dream it, you can become it.
Becoming a Neurologist or Specialist in any field of medicine requires hardwork and dedication. That entails doing well in Medical school, getting into a Neurology Residency Training Program and becoming a fellow.
I wish you all the Best.
Becoming a Neurologist or Specialist in any field of medicine requires hardwork and dedication. That entails doing well in Medical school, getting into a Neurology Residency Training Program and becoming a fellow.
I wish you all the Best.
Thank you sooo much for this :)
Daniela
Nadine Maayah
Student (aspiring geneticist)
8
Answers
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Nadine’s Answer
Education Pathway to Becoming a Neurologist
High School (Recommended Courses)
- Biology – Understanding human anatomy and physiology.
- Chemistry – Essential for medical studies.
- Physics – Helps with understanding medical imaging techniques.
- Math (Algebra, Statistics, or Calculus) – Useful for research and medical data analysis.
- Psychology – Helps in understanding neurological disorders and patient behavior.
Undergraduate Degree (Bachelor’s)
A pre-med or science-related degree is recommended, such as:
- Biology
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Psychology (with strong science coursework)
Courses to Focus On:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Statistics or Data Science (helpful for research)
Extracurriculars to Gain Admission to Medical School:
- Clinical experience (hospital/neurology shadowing, EMT, scribing, etc.)
- Research in neuroscience or neurology-related topics
- Volunteering in healthcare settings
- Leadership roles in science or medical organizations
Medical School (MD or MBBS)
Duration: 4-6 years (depending on the country)
Courses: General medical sciences, anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical rotations, including neurology.
Residency in Neurology
Duration: 3-4 years (in the U.S., UK, and other countries)
Training: Involves diagnosing and treating neurological disorders like stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, and multiple sclerosis.
Fellowship (Optional, for Higher Salary & Specialization)
Duration: 1-3 years
Subspecialties:
- Neurocritical Care
- Epilepsy
- Stroke and Vascular Neurology
- Neurophysiology
- Movement Disorders
- Pediatric Neurology
High School (Recommended Courses)
- Biology – Understanding human anatomy and physiology.
- Chemistry – Essential for medical studies.
- Physics – Helps with understanding medical imaging techniques.
- Math (Algebra, Statistics, or Calculus) – Useful for research and medical data analysis.
- Psychology – Helps in understanding neurological disorders and patient behavior.
Undergraduate Degree (Bachelor’s)
A pre-med or science-related degree is recommended, such as:
- Biology
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Psychology (with strong science coursework)
Courses to Focus On:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Statistics or Data Science (helpful for research)
Extracurriculars to Gain Admission to Medical School:
- Clinical experience (hospital/neurology shadowing, EMT, scribing, etc.)
- Research in neuroscience or neurology-related topics
- Volunteering in healthcare settings
- Leadership roles in science or medical organizations
Medical School (MD or MBBS)
Duration: 4-6 years (depending on the country)
Courses: General medical sciences, anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical rotations, including neurology.
Residency in Neurology
Duration: 3-4 years (in the U.S., UK, and other countries)
Training: Involves diagnosing and treating neurological disorders like stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, and multiple sclerosis.
Fellowship (Optional, for Higher Salary & Specialization)
Duration: 1-3 years
Subspecialties:
- Neurocritical Care
- Epilepsy
- Stroke and Vascular Neurology
- Neurophysiology
- Movement Disorders
- Pediatric Neurology
Thank you so much for this very detailed information! it was super helpful :)
Daniela
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Neurology is a demanding and fascinating field that requires a strong foundation in sciences, including biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and neuroscience. A pre-med track is highly recommended, and students must take a high GPA for medical school admission. The medical school curriculum focuses on basic sciences and clinical rotations in various medical specialties, including neurology. A neurology residency typically lasts four years, providing hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders. Those who choose to pursue further training in a subspecialty through a fellowship can also pursue further training. To enhance their graduate program application, students should have a strong academic record, research experience, clinical experience, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and a well-written personal statement. Increasing salary can be achieved through subspecialization, location, experience, private practice vs. academic medicine, and leadership roles. Key advice for becoming a neurologist is early planning, seeking mentorship, being curious, and gaining experience.
Bright, thank you!
Daniela