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What classes should I take in high school if I want to become a pediatrician?
I currently take biology, algebra 1, english honors, and honors world history what should I take for the rest of high school.
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13 answers
Updated
sirish’s Answer
Hello there!
Are you in high school and envisioning yourself as a future pediatrician? If so, you should be putting a spotlight on Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.
In today's digital world, there's a wealth of information available online through various platforms. I recommend you make the most of your precious time and dive into these resources to familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. Doing so can pave the way towards achieving your dream.
Best of luck!
Are you in high school and envisioning yourself as a future pediatrician? If so, you should be putting a spotlight on Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.
In today's digital world, there's a wealth of information available online through various platforms. I recommend you make the most of your precious time and dive into these resources to familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. Doing so can pave the way towards achieving your dream.
Best of luck!
Updated
Anna’s Answer
Hey Emilka,
Sounds like you are already on the right path. I would see if your high school offers a STEM program you can join in to continue that science education or see if you can enroll in Dual Enrollment. Dual Enrollment can offer you the opportunity to complete your Associates degree while getting your High School diploma. You can also enroll in AP courses if interested to help get college credits to help shorten your time finishing your undergraduate degree.
Sounds like you are already on the right path. I would see if your high school offers a STEM program you can join in to continue that science education or see if you can enroll in Dual Enrollment. Dual Enrollment can offer you the opportunity to complete your Associates degree while getting your High School diploma. You can also enroll in AP courses if interested to help get college credits to help shorten your time finishing your undergraduate degree.
Updated
L.’s Answer
It sounds like you are already on the right track with the classes you are already taking!
In high school: Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Health, Advanced Mathematics, and English classes really helped.
Some colleges required these high school classes for my "declared" college Major which was Biology.
You do not need to Major in Biology, Chemistry, or other Sciences but whatever college major you decide on, there will be "prerequisites" ( college classes that you need to take) to apply to medical school.
Taking as many classes in high school like Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, and Advanced Mathematics will definitely help to prepare you for the college classes you will need to take to apply to medical school.
The classes I took in college that were required for my medical school applications were Biology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics and Calculus. I also went to a college that had an Embryology class and Anatomy class which really helped me in Medical School.
Best Wishes,
L.P
In high school: Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Health, Advanced Mathematics, and English classes really helped.
Some colleges required these high school classes for my "declared" college Major which was Biology.
You do not need to Major in Biology, Chemistry, or other Sciences but whatever college major you decide on, there will be "prerequisites" ( college classes that you need to take) to apply to medical school.
Taking as many classes in high school like Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, and Advanced Mathematics will definitely help to prepare you for the college classes you will need to take to apply to medical school.
The classes I took in college that were required for my medical school applications were Biology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics and Calculus. I also went to a college that had an Embryology class and Anatomy class which really helped me in Medical School.
Best Wishes,
L.P
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
If you're a high school student dreaming of becoming a pediatrician or any kind of doctor, it's super important to take as many science classes as you can. Your path to becoming a doctor involves getting an undergraduate degree and then going to medical school, where you'll dive deep into biology, chemistry, and anatomy & physiology. Luckily, you can start exploring these subjects in high school! Getting a head start now will help you do well in college and earn the high grades that medical schools look for.
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Kandel A.’s Answer
Remember, the key is to pursue what you love. Find those courses that not only meet the basic necessities but also ignite your interest and confidence. Your enjoyment and high performance in these classes will significantly enhance your applications. If anatomy is your thing, go ahead and dive into it, while steering clear of subjects that don't resonate with you as much, like botany for instance, which wasn't my cup of tea.
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Alexis’s Answer
Think about what other extracurricular activities you may want to try to ensure you like the idea of treating children. Volunteer or work at camps. Join a sports medicine club or anything where you might be interacting with children (0-18 of age) doing things like sports or camps where you can see what it is like to care for them. I always recommend shadowing a pediatrician.
Updated
James’s Answer
HI. While I am not a physician, my wife is and I've known her since college. She was a chemistry major in college and she always said that concentrating on chemistry helped her tremendously in medical school, as did many of her colleagues. So on the basis of that experience, I would suggest exploring math and chemistry courses. Good Luck and best wishes.
Updated
Eridian’s Answer
If you want to become a pediatrician, it's important that you gain a good foundation in science courses such as Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, and Physiology. If your school offers a Medical Terminology course, it would be super helpful to take that since it will be essential as you pursue volunteer/internship experiences in college. And since you'll be working with kids, it may also help to take classes in child development.
Remember that if your high school doesn't offer some of the courses you are interested in, you may be able to take those classes at your local community college (in some cities/states it's free for high schoolers and gives you college credit!)
Remember that if your high school doesn't offer some of the courses you are interested in, you may be able to take those classes at your local community college (in some cities/states it's free for high schoolers and gives you college credit!)
Updated
Martin’s Answer
You're definitely headed in the right direction! Keep up the good work with your science, math, and other essential courses. When the opportunity arises to choose electives, go for those that spark your personal interest. As you progress into college and medical school, you'll encounter an abundance of science-related subjects and more. It's important to carve out some time for yourself and explore what truly captivates you. This will not only make studying more enjoyable but also alleviate some of the stress from the rigorous academic demands, ultimately contributing to your overall happiness. Remember, your admission into medical school will hinge on your college performance, so everything you're doing in high school is laying the groundwork for that critical period. Keep going, you're doing great!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Emilka,
To pave your way towards a career as a pediatrician, it's crucial to concentrate on science and math subjects during your high school years, as these disciplines lay the groundwork for your future medical studies. Here are some suggested courses to consider:
Chemistry: Grasping chemistry is vital to comprehend the biological activities in the human body and the impact of various drugs. Strive to complete at least one year of high school chemistry, or two years if your timetable permits.
Physics: Although not directly linked to medicine, physics imparts a valuable comprehension of the natural world and helps cultivate problem-solving abilities that will be beneficial in medical school and beyond. Aim to complete a minimum of one year of physics, focusing on physics for living systems if possible.
Advanced Math: Pediatricians frequently employ intricate mathematical principles to scrutinize data and make informed judgments about patient care. Courses like calculus and statistics can establish a robust foundation for this kind of work.
Foreign Language: Acquiring a foreign language can aid in communicating with patients and their families, and in collaborating with international peers in the medical field. While not a strict necessity, it's a beneficial skill to possess.
Advanced Science Courses: Contemplate enrolling in advanced science courses like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or AP Physics if they're available at your school. These classes can offer a deeper comprehension of scientific principles and may provide an advantage when applying to college or medical school.
English/Writing: Exceptional communication skills are essential for pediatricians, as they need to convey intricate medical information to patients and their families in an easily understandable manner. English or writing classes can enhance your ability to communicate effectively and convincingly.
Social Studies: A robust background in social studies can aid in understanding the cultural backgrounds of your patients and their families, which is crucial in delivering empathetic care that caters to their distinct needs and worries. If feasible, consider enrolling in advanced courses in history, geography, or sociology.
Authoritative References Consulted:
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Undergraduate Medical Education: Preparing Students for Success (https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/632089/preparing-students-for-success/)
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - ExploreHealthCareers: Pediatrics (https://explorehealthcareers.org/professions/pediatrics/)
National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Careers in Medicine: Becoming a Doctor: High School Students (https://medschooledu-nihgov-prod-cdn-files20190418153647..s3-us-west-2amazonaws.com/careers_in_medicine_high_school_student_brochure_final_lowresolution_weboptimized_v20180719_.pdf)
May God bless you,
JC.
To pave your way towards a career as a pediatrician, it's crucial to concentrate on science and math subjects during your high school years, as these disciplines lay the groundwork for your future medical studies. Here are some suggested courses to consider:
Chemistry: Grasping chemistry is vital to comprehend the biological activities in the human body and the impact of various drugs. Strive to complete at least one year of high school chemistry, or two years if your timetable permits.
Physics: Although not directly linked to medicine, physics imparts a valuable comprehension of the natural world and helps cultivate problem-solving abilities that will be beneficial in medical school and beyond. Aim to complete a minimum of one year of physics, focusing on physics for living systems if possible.
Advanced Math: Pediatricians frequently employ intricate mathematical principles to scrutinize data and make informed judgments about patient care. Courses like calculus and statistics can establish a robust foundation for this kind of work.
Foreign Language: Acquiring a foreign language can aid in communicating with patients and their families, and in collaborating with international peers in the medical field. While not a strict necessity, it's a beneficial skill to possess.
Advanced Science Courses: Contemplate enrolling in advanced science courses like AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or AP Physics if they're available at your school. These classes can offer a deeper comprehension of scientific principles and may provide an advantage when applying to college or medical school.
English/Writing: Exceptional communication skills are essential for pediatricians, as they need to convey intricate medical information to patients and their families in an easily understandable manner. English or writing classes can enhance your ability to communicate effectively and convincingly.
Social Studies: A robust background in social studies can aid in understanding the cultural backgrounds of your patients and their families, which is crucial in delivering empathetic care that caters to their distinct needs and worries. If feasible, consider enrolling in advanced courses in history, geography, or sociology.
Authoritative References Consulted:
American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) - Undergraduate Medical Education: Preparing Students for Success (https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/632089/preparing-students-for-success/)
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) - ExploreHealthCareers: Pediatrics (https://explorehealthcareers.org/professions/pediatrics/)
National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Careers in Medicine: Becoming a Doctor: High School Students (https://medschooledu-nihgov-prod-cdn-files20190418153647..s3-us-west-2amazonaws.com/careers_in_medicine_high_school_student_brochure_final_lowresolution_weboptimized_v20180719_.pdf)
May God bless you,
JC.
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
AP Chemistry and AP Physics
Updated
Amina’s Answer
If you want to become a pediatrician, it's important to build a strong foundation in high school that will prepare you for college and eventually medical school. Here are the key classes and activities you should focus on:
Core Academic Classes
**1. **Science Courses:**
- **Biology:** Understand the basics of life sciences, including human anatomy and physiology.
- **Chemistry:** Learn about chemical reactions, compounds, and laboratory techniques.
- **Physics:** Gain knowledge about the principles of physics, which are fundamental to understanding how the human body works.
- **Advanced Placement (AP) Science Courses:** If available, take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or AP Physics to prepare for the rigorous science courses in college.
**2. **Mathematics:**
- **Algebra and Geometry:** These are foundational courses.
- **Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus:** Prepare for the calculus courses you may need in college.
- **Calculus:** If available, take AP Calculus AB or BC.
**3. **English:**
- **Literature and Composition:** Develop strong reading and writing skills.
- **AP English Language and Composition or AP English Literature and Composition:** These can help improve critical thinking and communication skills.
**4. **Social Sciences:**
- **Psychology:** Gain insights into human behavior and development.
- **Sociology:** Understand societal influences on health and behavior.
- **AP Courses:** AP Psychology and AP Sociology can be particularly useful.
Elective Courses
**1. **Health and Wellness:**
- **Health Education:** Learn about personal health, nutrition, and wellness.
**2. **Foreign Language:**
- **Spanish or Other Languages:** Knowing a second language, especially Spanish, can be beneficial in communicating with a diverse patient population.
**3. **Computer Science:**
- **Basic Computer Skills:** Familiarize yourself with basic computer applications and data management.
Extracurricular Activities
**1. **Volunteer Work:**
- **Hospitals or Clinics:** Gain firsthand experience in a healthcare setting by volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
- **Community Service:** Participate in community service activities, particularly those related to health and wellness.
**2. **Science Clubs and Competitions:**
- **Science Olympiad, Science Fair, or HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America):** Engage in competitions and clubs that foster a deeper understanding of science and medicine.
**3. **Job Shadowing:**
- **Shadowing Physicians:** Arrange to shadow pediatricians or other healthcare professionals to gain insight into the medical field.
Academic Skills
**1. **Study Habits:**
- **Time Management and Organization:** Develop effective study habits and time management skills to handle the rigorous coursework.
**2. **Test Preparation:**
- **Standardized Tests:** Prepare for the SAT or ACT, as strong scores will be important for college admissions.
Research and Planning
**1. **Research Colleges:**
- **Pre-Med Programs:** Look for colleges with strong pre-med programs and research opportunities.
- **AP Credit Policies:** Understand the AP credit policies of the colleges you are interested in.
**2. **Long-Term Planning:**
- **Medical School Requirements:** Familiarize yourself with the prerequisites for medical school, so you can plan your college coursework accordingly.
Personal Development
**1. **Soft Skills:**
- **Communication and Empathy:** Work on developing strong communication skills and empathy, which are crucial for patient care.
- **Critical Thinking:** Engage in activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
By focusing on these classes and activities, you'll be well-prepared for the challenges of pre-med studies in college and eventually medical school, setting a solid foundation for your future career as a pediatrician.
Core Academic Classes
**1. **Science Courses:**
- **Biology:** Understand the basics of life sciences, including human anatomy and physiology.
- **Chemistry:** Learn about chemical reactions, compounds, and laboratory techniques.
- **Physics:** Gain knowledge about the principles of physics, which are fundamental to understanding how the human body works.
- **Advanced Placement (AP) Science Courses:** If available, take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or AP Physics to prepare for the rigorous science courses in college.
**2. **Mathematics:**
- **Algebra and Geometry:** These are foundational courses.
- **Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus:** Prepare for the calculus courses you may need in college.
- **Calculus:** If available, take AP Calculus AB or BC.
**3. **English:**
- **Literature and Composition:** Develop strong reading and writing skills.
- **AP English Language and Composition or AP English Literature and Composition:** These can help improve critical thinking and communication skills.
**4. **Social Sciences:**
- **Psychology:** Gain insights into human behavior and development.
- **Sociology:** Understand societal influences on health and behavior.
- **AP Courses:** AP Psychology and AP Sociology can be particularly useful.
Elective Courses
**1. **Health and Wellness:**
- **Health Education:** Learn about personal health, nutrition, and wellness.
**2. **Foreign Language:**
- **Spanish or Other Languages:** Knowing a second language, especially Spanish, can be beneficial in communicating with a diverse patient population.
**3. **Computer Science:**
- **Basic Computer Skills:** Familiarize yourself with basic computer applications and data management.
Extracurricular Activities
**1. **Volunteer Work:**
- **Hospitals or Clinics:** Gain firsthand experience in a healthcare setting by volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
- **Community Service:** Participate in community service activities, particularly those related to health and wellness.
**2. **Science Clubs and Competitions:**
- **Science Olympiad, Science Fair, or HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America):** Engage in competitions and clubs that foster a deeper understanding of science and medicine.
**3. **Job Shadowing:**
- **Shadowing Physicians:** Arrange to shadow pediatricians or other healthcare professionals to gain insight into the medical field.
Academic Skills
**1. **Study Habits:**
- **Time Management and Organization:** Develop effective study habits and time management skills to handle the rigorous coursework.
**2. **Test Preparation:**
- **Standardized Tests:** Prepare for the SAT or ACT, as strong scores will be important for college admissions.
Research and Planning
**1. **Research Colleges:**
- **Pre-Med Programs:** Look for colleges with strong pre-med programs and research opportunities.
- **AP Credit Policies:** Understand the AP credit policies of the colleges you are interested in.
**2. **Long-Term Planning:**
- **Medical School Requirements:** Familiarize yourself with the prerequisites for medical school, so you can plan your college coursework accordingly.
Personal Development
**1. **Soft Skills:**
- **Communication and Empathy:** Work on developing strong communication skills and empathy, which are crucial for patient care.
- **Critical Thinking:** Engage in activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
By focusing on these classes and activities, you'll be well-prepared for the challenges of pre-med studies in college and eventually medical school, setting a solid foundation for your future career as a pediatrician.
Updated
James’s Answer
HI. While I am not a physician, I'm married to one and we've been together since college. She was a chemistry major in college and she's often mentioned that a focus on chemistry helped her significantly in medical school and many of her colleague friends agree with this thought. So drawing from her experience, I would suggest exploring math and chemistry courses. Good Luck and best wishes.