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What are the steps to become a pediatrician ?
I’m a junior in I want to know what are the steps to become a pediatrician because I’m almost going to collage
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Doc’s Answer
Kristhel, becoming a pediatrician requires a significant amount of education and training. It typically takes a minimum of 11 years after high school to become a licensed pediatrician.
STEP 1: BACHELOR'S DEGREE - Before you can attend medical school, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While there's no specific major required for pre-med students, it's common for aspiring pediatricians to major in biology, chemistry or a related field.
STEP 2: MEDICAL SCHOOL - After completing your bachelor's degree, you'll need to attend medical school. This typically takes four years, and covers topics such as anatomy, medical ethics and pharmacology. During your third and fourth years of medical school, you'll begin working with patients under the supervision of licensed physicians.
STEP 3: RESIDENCY - After graduating from medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in pediatrics. This typically takes three years and provides hands-on training in a clinical setting. During your residency, you'll work with patients under the supervision of licensed pediatricians, and you'll have the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of pediatric specialties.
STEP 4: BOARD CERTIFICATION - After completing your residency, you'll need to pass the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) exam to become board certified. Board certification is not required to practice as a pediatrician, but it is strongly recommended as it demonstrates a high level of knowledge and skill in the field.
Hope this was helpful Kristhel
Meet with your high school guidance counselor and make sure your on the right track for college and medical school.
STEP 1: BACHELOR'S DEGREE - Before you can attend medical school, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While there's no specific major required for pre-med students, it's common for aspiring pediatricians to major in biology, chemistry or a related field.
STEP 2: MEDICAL SCHOOL - After completing your bachelor's degree, you'll need to attend medical school. This typically takes four years, and covers topics such as anatomy, medical ethics and pharmacology. During your third and fourth years of medical school, you'll begin working with patients under the supervision of licensed physicians.
STEP 3: RESIDENCY - After graduating from medical school, you'll need to complete a residency program in pediatrics. This typically takes three years and provides hands-on training in a clinical setting. During your residency, you'll work with patients under the supervision of licensed pediatricians, and you'll have the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of pediatric specialties.
STEP 4: BOARD CERTIFICATION - After completing your residency, you'll need to pass the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) exam to become board certified. Board certification is not required to practice as a pediatrician, but it is strongly recommended as it demonstrates a high level of knowledge and skill in the field.
Hope this was helpful Kristhel
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Your advice was so helpful!
Zaynah
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi Kristhel,
Look for colleges that have a pre-medical support system to help you through the process of undergrad. You have flexibility on what you major in but many times students major in a science like biology or biochem. In addition to taking a challenging course load and getting good grades, focus on experiences like volunteering, clinical experiences and research - so you have a well balanced application when going for medical school. If you're interested in being a pediatrician, you can also look for opportunities connecting you with kids (youth leader, classroom aid, summer camp counselor).
Good luck!
Jessica
Look for colleges that have a pre-medical support system to help you through the process of undergrad. You have flexibility on what you major in but many times students major in a science like biology or biochem. In addition to taking a challenging course load and getting good grades, focus on experiences like volunteering, clinical experiences and research - so you have a well balanced application when going for medical school. If you're interested in being a pediatrician, you can also look for opportunities connecting you with kids (youth leader, classroom aid, summer camp counselor).
Good luck!
Jessica
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Becoming a pediatrician involves a structured and rigorous path that starts with completing a bachelor's degree in a science-related field, followed by preparing for and taking the MCAT exam. After gaining admission to medical school, you'll complete a four-year program, pass the USMLE to obtain a medical license, and then proceed to a three-year pediatric residency program. Obtaining state licensure is essential, and optional steps include pursuing subspecialization through fellowship training, seeking board certification, and maintaining continuing education. Once you've completed these educational and training requirements, you can embark on your career as a pediatrician, working in various healthcare settings to provide care for children and adolescents. Seeking guidance from mentors and advisors is beneficial throughout this journey.