3 answers
Titilayomi
Student
Mansfield, Texas
2
Questions
Asked
591 views
How do I become a radiologist?
I am really interested in the healthcare field but I do not know what steps I need to complete to get there. What should my major be? How does the MCAT work?
3 answers
Michel Davis
Medical student
171
Answers
Cranston, Rhode Island
Updated
Michel’s Answer
Great question.
So the MCAT is the medical admissions test to get into medical school. It is a 7 hour exam that is made up of four parts. The first part is mostly physics, general chemistry and organic chemistry based. The second part is based on reading comprehension. The third part is mostly biology and biochemistry. The fourth part is based on psychology and sociology. It is a difficult test, but with prep it is very doable. Most people will take this test at the end of their third year or at the end of their fourth year in order to go to medical school the year after.
Your major can be anything you want it to be, but you will need core classes to go to medical school the ones on the top of my head right now include. 2 semesters of biology with a lab, 2 semesters of general chemistry with lab, 2 semesters of organic chemistry with lab, 2 semesters physics with lab, 1-2 semesters of psychology, 1 semester of sociology, math is always important and getting up to calculus can be helpful for the MCAT. Most schools are moving over to having people take biochemistry for a semester and recommend a class in genetics but mostly not required.
If you have any more questions let me know. I can knock out quite a few this weekend if you would like.
So the MCAT is the medical admissions test to get into medical school. It is a 7 hour exam that is made up of four parts. The first part is mostly physics, general chemistry and organic chemistry based. The second part is based on reading comprehension. The third part is mostly biology and biochemistry. The fourth part is based on psychology and sociology. It is a difficult test, but with prep it is very doable. Most people will take this test at the end of their third year or at the end of their fourth year in order to go to medical school the year after.
Your major can be anything you want it to be, but you will need core classes to go to medical school the ones on the top of my head right now include. 2 semesters of biology with a lab, 2 semesters of general chemistry with lab, 2 semesters of organic chemistry with lab, 2 semesters physics with lab, 1-2 semesters of psychology, 1 semester of sociology, math is always important and getting up to calculus can be helpful for the MCAT. Most schools are moving over to having people take biochemistry for a semester and recommend a class in genetics but mostly not required.
If you have any more questions let me know. I can knock out quite a few this weekend if you would like.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6185
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Titilayomi,
Here's a comprehensive guide on how to become a radiologist:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree:
Kickstart your journey to becoming a radiologist by securing a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. Although no specific major is mandatory for medical school admission, most radiology aspirants opt for biology, chemistry, physics, or related majors to meet the pre-medical school prerequisites.
2. Enroll in Medical School:
Once your bachelor's degree is in hand, the next step is to attend medical school. Gaining admission can be challenging and usually requires taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), submitting recommendation letters, and showcasing relevant clinical experience.
3. Undertake Residency Training:
Post-medical school, you must complete a residency program in diagnostic radiology. This four-year program provides practical training in various imaging techniques and procedures, all under the guidance of seasoned radiologists.
4. Acquire Licensure:
To practice as a radiologist, you need a medical license in the state you wish to work in. Licensing requirements differ by state but generally require passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX).
5. Consider Fellowship Training:
Some radiologists opt for additional fellowship training in subspecialties like interventional radiology, neuroradiology, or pediatric radiology to further refine their skills.
Understanding the MCAT:
The MCAT is a standardized test designed to evaluate your preparedness for medical school. It comprises four sections and is a computer-based exam lasting approximately 7.5 hours. Scores range from 472 to 528, with an average score around 500. Most U.S. medical schools require MCAT scores as part of their application process. It's advisable to prepare for the MCAT through self-study or preparatory courses to enhance your chances of success.
By adhering to these steps and fulfilling the necessary education and training requirements, you can carve out a successful career as a radiologist in the healthcare sector.
The top three authoritative sources used in answering this question are:
- American College of Radiology (ACR): ACR provides insights on the educational pathways and requirements for becoming a radiologist.
- Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC offers resources on preparing for the MCAT exam and applying to medical school.
- American Board of Radiology (ABR): ABR establishes standards for certification in diagnostic radiology and offers guidance on licensure requirements for practicing as a radiologist.
May God bless you!
JC.
Here's a comprehensive guide on how to become a radiologist:
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree:
Kickstart your journey to becoming a radiologist by securing a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. Although no specific major is mandatory for medical school admission, most radiology aspirants opt for biology, chemistry, physics, or related majors to meet the pre-medical school prerequisites.
2. Enroll in Medical School:
Once your bachelor's degree is in hand, the next step is to attend medical school. Gaining admission can be challenging and usually requires taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), submitting recommendation letters, and showcasing relevant clinical experience.
3. Undertake Residency Training:
Post-medical school, you must complete a residency program in diagnostic radiology. This four-year program provides practical training in various imaging techniques and procedures, all under the guidance of seasoned radiologists.
4. Acquire Licensure:
To practice as a radiologist, you need a medical license in the state you wish to work in. Licensing requirements differ by state but generally require passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX).
5. Consider Fellowship Training:
Some radiologists opt for additional fellowship training in subspecialties like interventional radiology, neuroradiology, or pediatric radiology to further refine their skills.
Understanding the MCAT:
The MCAT is a standardized test designed to evaluate your preparedness for medical school. It comprises four sections and is a computer-based exam lasting approximately 7.5 hours. Scores range from 472 to 528, with an average score around 500. Most U.S. medical schools require MCAT scores as part of their application process. It's advisable to prepare for the MCAT through self-study or preparatory courses to enhance your chances of success.
By adhering to these steps and fulfilling the necessary education and training requirements, you can carve out a successful career as a radiologist in the healthcare sector.
The top three authoritative sources used in answering this question are:
- American College of Radiology (ACR): ACR provides insights on the educational pathways and requirements for becoming a radiologist.
- Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC offers resources on preparing for the MCAT exam and applying to medical school.
- American Board of Radiology (ABR): ABR establishes standards for certification in diagnostic radiology and offers guidance on licensure requirements for practicing as a radiologist.
May God bless you!
JC.
Dolores Northrup
Registered nurse
5
Answers
San Angelo, Texas
Updated
Dolores’s Answer
If you are interested in a career in healthcare you will need to focus on science and math related courses as well as English courses (reading and writing) as there will be a lot of reading and writing involved in healthcare courses. If you have an opportunity to take a course that allows you to shadow someone in the healthcare field, it might help you gain a better understanding of what is involved in getting into a healthcare profession.
All the best in your future studies as you decide on your career path.
All the best in your future studies as you decide on your career path.
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