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Which major is best for someone who wants to become a future dermatologist and why exactly?
Currently a high school rising senior, 16 year old, applying to college soon!
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Updated
Doc’s Answer
WHILE IN HIGH SCHOOL
Ifra take plenty of science and math courses.
Dermatologists are medical doctors. While you won’t earn a bachelor’s degree in “pre-med” — Dermatology isn’t an actual major — you should show your interest in the field by taking plenty of upper-level science and math courses in high school, such as AP courses in biology, physics, chemistry, calculus, and statistics.
AFTER YOUR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Your next step after high school is to earn a bachelor's degree, typically with a major in a science field such as biology or chemistry, from an accredited four-year college. Some schools may offer well-defined premedical courses of study, while others will allow you to structure your own education. In either case, your college studies should concentrate on the sciences, including biology, physics, organic chemistry, and inorganic chemistry. In addition, you should continue to take mathematics, English, and social science courses. Language classes, particular Latin, may help you in your medical school studies.
While you are in your second or third year of college, you should arrange with an adviser to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). All medical colleges in this country require this test for admission. After you receive your undergraduate degree, you can apply to one of the approximately 180 medical schools in the United States. The admissions process is very competitive and includes evaluation by a committee that considers grade point averages, MCAT scores, and recommendations from professors. Most premedical students apply to several medical schools long before there graduation.
Hope this is helpful Ifra
Ifra take plenty of science and math courses.
Dermatologists are medical doctors. While you won’t earn a bachelor’s degree in “pre-med” — Dermatology isn’t an actual major — you should show your interest in the field by taking plenty of upper-level science and math courses in high school, such as AP courses in biology, physics, chemistry, calculus, and statistics.
AFTER YOUR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Your next step after high school is to earn a bachelor's degree, typically with a major in a science field such as biology or chemistry, from an accredited four-year college. Some schools may offer well-defined premedical courses of study, while others will allow you to structure your own education. In either case, your college studies should concentrate on the sciences, including biology, physics, organic chemistry, and inorganic chemistry. In addition, you should continue to take mathematics, English, and social science courses. Language classes, particular Latin, may help you in your medical school studies.
While you are in your second or third year of college, you should arrange with an adviser to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). All medical colleges in this country require this test for admission. After you receive your undergraduate degree, you can apply to one of the approximately 180 medical schools in the United States. The admissions process is very competitive and includes evaluation by a committee that considers grade point averages, MCAT scores, and recommendations from professors. Most premedical students apply to several medical schools long before there graduation.
Hope this is helpful Ifra
Updated
Mary Jane’s Answer
Hi Ifra! You can major in any subject in college. Medical schools do not care about your major, only that you have taken the prerequisite courses. These usually include: 1 year of introductory biology, 1 year of general chemistry, 1 year of organic chemistry, 1 year of introductory physics, 1 year of English, and some math (usually calculus or statistics). The MCAT exam for admission tests those subjects as well as biochemistry, psychology, sociology, and your ability to read and analyze texts (skills you'd hone in humanities and social science courses). We are beginning to see an increasing number of medical schools require biochemistry and courses in the social and behavioral sciences so most premed students take those courses.
As long as you complete courses in the areas I mentioned, you can major in anything you like and enjoy. Having said that, you can imagine that majoring in a science like biology or biochemistry may reduce the number of scheduling conflicts you'd encounter as a student because the premedical coursework would overlap with your major. For this reason, most of my advisees intending to go to medical school are biochemistry majors but I've had a lot of successful advisees major in Spanish, sociology, and even art. As an aspiring dermatologist, I think taking some courses in art would be beneficial because you will learn about how proportions and symmetry influence the way humans perceive beauty. This could simply mean taking several classes in art without necessarily majoring or minoring.
One last thing I will mention is that the national data provided to us by the medical schools shows that while no single major is more successful in gaining admission to medical school, specialized health studies or medical sciences type majors are less likely to be admitted. I would not recommend you seek out colleges that offer this type of major expecting it will make you stand out to medical schools. A standard biology, psychology, or even Spanish major is going to serve you better in the long run that a generic medical sciences or health studies degree, in my professional opinion.
Good luck with your applications!
As long as you complete courses in the areas I mentioned, you can major in anything you like and enjoy. Having said that, you can imagine that majoring in a science like biology or biochemistry may reduce the number of scheduling conflicts you'd encounter as a student because the premedical coursework would overlap with your major. For this reason, most of my advisees intending to go to medical school are biochemistry majors but I've had a lot of successful advisees major in Spanish, sociology, and even art. As an aspiring dermatologist, I think taking some courses in art would be beneficial because you will learn about how proportions and symmetry influence the way humans perceive beauty. This could simply mean taking several classes in art without necessarily majoring or minoring.
One last thing I will mention is that the national data provided to us by the medical schools shows that while no single major is more successful in gaining admission to medical school, specialized health studies or medical sciences type majors are less likely to be admitted. I would not recommend you seek out colleges that offer this type of major expecting it will make you stand out to medical schools. A standard biology, psychology, or even Spanish major is going to serve you better in the long run that a generic medical sciences or health studies degree, in my professional opinion.
Good luck with your applications!
Thank you so much, Mary Jane!
Ifra
Updated
Phil’s Answer
Becoming a dermatologist is a wonderful aspiration. It is also achieved with high performance in high school to enter and do well in a selective college or university. In college, you would be smart to choose a science major that includes all the pre-requisite courses you need to apply to medical school. There are two routes to become a physician: MD and DO. The information for the common applications (fill these out and submit to multiple medical schools) is AMCAS for MD programs and AACOMAS for DO programs. Medical schools are selective, so look through the application portions to see all that just applying entails. For instance, you need experience shadowing or working with physicians, volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and so on. At the end of medical school, medical students apply again to residencies. You should know that dermatology is among the most competitive specialty to match into (meaning that you and the program rank each other high enough on a list to be accepted). Some reasons are that derm docs are well payed, do not work nights, and are never on call. This whole paragraph is just to make a point that you major in college is a small part of a long road. It is important, but all the other parts are important too. I wish you luck.
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I agree with the above. I know of a Psychiatrist who majored in Philosophy. Someone in my medical school was an English major. The major doesn't matter but keep in mind that during the first few months of medical school, they highly emphasize the sciences. My doctor friend from medical school has a daughter that just started medical school. She was a Psychology major and failed the first science class in medical school. The average grade was 88% or something really high.
Keep in mind also that Dermatology is extremely competitive so if you get into medical school, you need to be at the top of your game. Good luck!
Keep in mind also that Dermatology is extremely competitive so if you get into medical school, you need to be at the top of your game. Good luck!
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Ifra,
Good question! Dermatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nails. If you're interested in pursuing a career in dermatology, you'll need to have a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Here are some of the best majors for aspiring dermatologists:
Biology: A biology major will provide you with a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. This knowledge is essential for understanding how the skin works and how to diagnose and treat skin conditions.
Chemistry: Chemistry is another important subject for dermatology. You'll need to understand the chemical composition of the skin and the ingredients in various skin care products.
Physics: Physics can be helpful for understanding the effects of light on the skin, which is important for treating skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.
Pre-med: If you're planning to attend medical school, you should consider majoring in pre-med. This will give you a broad overview of the medical field and prepare you for the MCAT exam.
Other majors: While biology, chemistry, and physics are the most common majors for aspiring dermatologists, there are other majors that can also be beneficial. For example, a major in biochemistry or molecular biology can provide you with a deeper understanding of the skin's cellular biology.
Why these majors are important:
Strong foundation in science: A strong foundation in science is essential for understanding the underlying causes of skin conditions and developing effective treatments.
Preparation for medical school: These majors will prepare you for the MCAT exam and help you succeed in medical school.
Specialized knowledge: Some majors, such as biochemistry or molecular biology, can provide you with specialized knowledge that can be helpful in dermatology research or practice.
Additional tips:
Get involved in research: Participating in research projects can give you valuable experience and help you develop your research skills.
Shadow a dermatologist: Shadowing a dermatologist can give you a better understanding of what the job entails and help you decide if it's the right career for you.
Volunteer in a healthcare setting: Volunteering in a healthcare setting can help you develop your communication and interpersonal skills, which are essential for working with patients.
By choosing one of these majors and following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in your pursuit of a career in dermatology.
Best wishes!
Good question! Dermatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nails. If you're interested in pursuing a career in dermatology, you'll need to have a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Here are some of the best majors for aspiring dermatologists:
Biology: A biology major will provide you with a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. This knowledge is essential for understanding how the skin works and how to diagnose and treat skin conditions.
Chemistry: Chemistry is another important subject for dermatology. You'll need to understand the chemical composition of the skin and the ingredients in various skin care products.
Physics: Physics can be helpful for understanding the effects of light on the skin, which is important for treating skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.
Pre-med: If you're planning to attend medical school, you should consider majoring in pre-med. This will give you a broad overview of the medical field and prepare you for the MCAT exam.
Other majors: While biology, chemistry, and physics are the most common majors for aspiring dermatologists, there are other majors that can also be beneficial. For example, a major in biochemistry or molecular biology can provide you with a deeper understanding of the skin's cellular biology.
Why these majors are important:
Strong foundation in science: A strong foundation in science is essential for understanding the underlying causes of skin conditions and developing effective treatments.
Preparation for medical school: These majors will prepare you for the MCAT exam and help you succeed in medical school.
Specialized knowledge: Some majors, such as biochemistry or molecular biology, can provide you with specialized knowledge that can be helpful in dermatology research or practice.
Additional tips:
Get involved in research: Participating in research projects can give you valuable experience and help you develop your research skills.
Shadow a dermatologist: Shadowing a dermatologist can give you a better understanding of what the job entails and help you decide if it's the right career for you.
Volunteer in a healthcare setting: Volunteering in a healthcare setting can help you develop your communication and interpersonal skills, which are essential for working with patients.
By choosing one of these majors and following these tips, you can increase your chances of success in your pursuit of a career in dermatology.
Best wishes!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Ifra
Glad I could help!
Chinyere Okafor
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Ifra:
While in college, here are some undergraduate degrees to major in order to become a Dermatologist:
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Chemistry
It will be best to seek advice from your high school guidance counselor as well as teachers to help you focus your interests for a specific major in college.
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare to be a Dermatologist. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, calculus and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Dermatologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with clinical staff and patients. A college course in Public Speaking, Communication and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
To become a Dermatologist, a Bachelor Degree in Biology, Chemistry, pre-med or another science related field has to be earned at a college or university. Afterwards, a Doctorate Degree from an accredited medical school has to be obtained. The next phase will be training through a medical residency as well as medical certification and licensing.
For education and training, it will take up to 12 years to become a Dermatologist. The Bachelor Degree will be between 4-5 years. Medical school (Allopathic (MD Degree)) or Osteopathic (DO Degree) will be another 4-5 years. Medical residency, medical certification and licensing can take up to 3-4 years. Dermatology Certification is obtained via governing entities such as the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology or the American Board of Dermatology.
Here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Dermatology:
- Harvard University
- Harvard Medical School
- University of Pennsylvania
- Northwestern University
- University of Miami
- Ichan School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (New York)
- University of California (San Francisco)
- John Hopkins University
- Yale University
- University of California (San Diego)
- Stanford University
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path as a Dermatologist!
While in college, here are some undergraduate degrees to major in order to become a Dermatologist:
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Chemistry
It will be best to seek advice from your high school guidance counselor as well as teachers to help you focus your interests for a specific major in college.
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare to be a Dermatologist. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, calculus and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Dermatologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with clinical staff and patients. A college course in Public Speaking, Communication and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
To become a Dermatologist, a Bachelor Degree in Biology, Chemistry, pre-med or another science related field has to be earned at a college or university. Afterwards, a Doctorate Degree from an accredited medical school has to be obtained. The next phase will be training through a medical residency as well as medical certification and licensing.
For education and training, it will take up to 12 years to become a Dermatologist. The Bachelor Degree will be between 4-5 years. Medical school (Allopathic (MD Degree)) or Osteopathic (DO Degree) will be another 4-5 years. Medical residency, medical certification and licensing can take up to 3-4 years. Dermatology Certification is obtained via governing entities such as the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology or the American Board of Dermatology.
Here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Dermatology:
- Harvard University
- Harvard Medical School
- University of Pennsylvania
- Northwestern University
- University of Miami
- Ichan School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (New York)
- University of California (San Francisco)
- John Hopkins University
- Yale University
- University of California (San Diego)
- Stanford University
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path as a Dermatologist!
Michael, thank you!
Ifra