Is it a good idea to do a double major in Child Development and Biology if I want to become a Pediatrician?
I am a senior in high school whose passion is kids and science. I have heard that getting a double major is something very beneficial to do while you're in college but I am not sure if Child Development and Biology are the right majors to combine during college and if they are going to help me become a Pediatrician??
Thanks ! #biology #pediatrics #pediatrician #double-major #child-development
2 answers
Michelle Hoque
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, sofie. I answered your other question in another page https://careervillage.org/questions/6601/what-should-i-major-in-if-i-want-to-become-a-pediatrician . I would try courses in those areas in university but if you find you dislike those areas in university there is lots of flexibility and do not be afraid to change your major to an area which interests you more.
At this stage , a guidance counselor would be helpful in pinpointing careers that you can pursue right now in university that focus on children and health.
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Biology: This field will equip you with a profound understanding of biological sciences, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and genetics. These are all key areas for a career in medicine. It will also prepare you for the demanding science courses you'll face in medical school.
Child Development: Gaining knowledge in child development can be extremely useful for a pediatrician. It can aid you in comprehending the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of children, which is vital for delivering all-encompassing care to your patients. Additionally, it might offer insights into effective communication with children and their families.
However, there are a few considerations to bear in mind:
A double major can be demanding and may necessitate meticulous planning to ensure you can meet all the requirements for both majors while still maintaining a good GPA and acquiring relevant experiences (like volunteering or shadowing in healthcare environments).
While both majors can be beneficial for a career in pediatrics, consider if you have a true passion for both subjects and how they correspond with your long-term career aspirations. If you're enthusiastic about both biology and child development, a double major could be an excellent choice. However, if your interest mainly lies in the medical aspects and you don't have a keen interest in child development specifically, you might find it more practical to concentrate solely on biology or a related pre-medical major. Remember, you don't necessarily need a specific major to enter medical school. Medical schools generally require a strong foundation in the sciences, but they also appreciate diverse backgrounds and experiences. As long as you complete the prerequisite courses for medical school (which usually include biology, chemistry, physics, and sometimes math), you can major in a field that aligns with your interests and strengths.