2 answers
Christian
Student
Homestead, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What degree and path do i need to become an orthopedic surgeon?
What kind of classes should i take.
should i get an AA or AS
what should i major in
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2 answers
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
29
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Christian!
To become an orthopedic surgeon, you must complete a rigorous educational and training pathway that includes degrees, examinations, and specialized training. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this career path:
1. Educational Pathway
a. Bachelor’s Degree
Degree Type: You'll need to obtain a bachelor's degree before applying to medical school.
Recommended Degree: An Associate of Science (AS) degree is typically more suitable if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue a science-related field. An AA (Associate of Arts) degree may not cover the necessary science prerequisites for medical school.
Recommended Courses:
General Biology
General Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Physics
Calculus or Statistics
Anatomy and Physiology
Psychology or Sociology (helpful for understanding patient care)
b. Medical School
Duration: 4 years
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Curriculum Overview:
Years 1-2: Focus on basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology).
Years 3-4: Clinical rotations in various specialties, including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, and orthopedics.
c. Residency in Orthopedic Surgery
Duration: 5 years
Training: In-depth training in orthopedic surgery, which includes both surgical and non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
d. Fellowship (Optional)
Duration: 1-2 years
Specialization: After residency, you may choose to pursue a fellowship for further specialization in areas such as:
Sports Medicine
Joint Reconstruction (whether hip, knee, or shoulder)
Pediatric Orthopedics
Spine Surgery
Trauma Surgery
Fellowships enhance expertise and can lead to better job opportunities and specialized practices.
2. AA vs. AS Degree
Associate of Science (AS) Degree:
Recommendation: The AS degree is preferable if you plan to transfer to a bachelor’s program in a science-related field and pursue courses required for medical school.
Focus: Greater emphasis on science and mathematics courses, which align better with medical school prerequisites.
Associate of Arts (AA) Degree:
More general coursework; may include less focus on science.
It might not prepare you sufficiently for the science-heavy requirements of medical school.
3. Important Skills and Extracurricular Activities
Skills to Develop:
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for patient care.
Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for surgical procedures.
Extracurricular Activities:
Volunteer at hospitals or clinics, particularly in orthopedic departments.
Shadow orthopedic surgeons to gain insights into the profession.
Participate in relevant research or medical clubs at your college.
4. Preparing for Medical School Admission
MCAT: Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) during your undergraduate studies.
Clinical Experience: Pursue internships or volunteering that offer direct patient care experience.
Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate strong relationships with professors and professionals in the field for future recommendations.
To become an orthopedic surgeon, you will need to complete an AS degree, followed by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, attend medical school to earn your MD or DO, complete a residency in orthopedic surgery, and potentially a fellowship for specialization. Focus on taking science courses, gain relevant experience, and prepare for medical school admissions to secure a successful path toward your career. Each stage builds upon the last, and dedication to education and practical experience is key to thriving in this field.
Good luck!
To become an orthopedic surgeon, you must complete a rigorous educational and training pathway that includes degrees, examinations, and specialized training. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this career path:
1. Educational Pathway
a. Bachelor’s Degree
Degree Type: You'll need to obtain a bachelor's degree before applying to medical school.
Recommended Degree: An Associate of Science (AS) degree is typically more suitable if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution and pursue a science-related field. An AA (Associate of Arts) degree may not cover the necessary science prerequisites for medical school.
Recommended Courses:
General Biology
General Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Physics
Calculus or Statistics
Anatomy and Physiology
Psychology or Sociology (helpful for understanding patient care)
b. Medical School
Duration: 4 years
Degree Awarded: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Curriculum Overview:
Years 1-2: Focus on basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology).
Years 3-4: Clinical rotations in various specialties, including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, and orthopedics.
c. Residency in Orthopedic Surgery
Duration: 5 years
Training: In-depth training in orthopedic surgery, which includes both surgical and non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
d. Fellowship (Optional)
Duration: 1-2 years
Specialization: After residency, you may choose to pursue a fellowship for further specialization in areas such as:
Sports Medicine
Joint Reconstruction (whether hip, knee, or shoulder)
Pediatric Orthopedics
Spine Surgery
Trauma Surgery
Fellowships enhance expertise and can lead to better job opportunities and specialized practices.
2. AA vs. AS Degree
Associate of Science (AS) Degree:
Recommendation: The AS degree is preferable if you plan to transfer to a bachelor’s program in a science-related field and pursue courses required for medical school.
Focus: Greater emphasis on science and mathematics courses, which align better with medical school prerequisites.
Associate of Arts (AA) Degree:
More general coursework; may include less focus on science.
It might not prepare you sufficiently for the science-heavy requirements of medical school.
3. Important Skills and Extracurricular Activities
Skills to Develop:
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for patient care.
Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for surgical procedures.
Extracurricular Activities:
Volunteer at hospitals or clinics, particularly in orthopedic departments.
Shadow orthopedic surgeons to gain insights into the profession.
Participate in relevant research or medical clubs at your college.
4. Preparing for Medical School Admission
MCAT: Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) during your undergraduate studies.
Clinical Experience: Pursue internships or volunteering that offer direct patient care experience.
Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate strong relationships with professors and professionals in the field for future recommendations.
To become an orthopedic surgeon, you will need to complete an AS degree, followed by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, attend medical school to earn your MD or DO, complete a residency in orthopedic surgery, and potentially a fellowship for specialization. Focus on taking science courses, gain relevant experience, and prepare for medical school admissions to secure a successful path toward your career. Each stage builds upon the last, and dedication to education and practical experience is key to thriving in this field.
Good luck!
Katrina Voe Cotton, MD, PhD, MBA
Anesthesiologist
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Katrina Voe’s Answer
While it's true that many aspiring doctors major in science during their college years, earning a Bachelor's of Science degree, it's equally possible to major in any field of your choice, provided you complete the necessary premed courses. Medical schools appreciate diversity and are equally keen on students from a variety of academic backgrounds such as music, history, economics, and so on, not just biology. It's also not uncommon to see students pursuing double majors. Your college advisors are there to guide you, helping you choose the right premed classes to ensure you're well-prepared for the MCAT, especially if your major isn't science-related.
Once you've earned your college degree and achieved a good score on the MCAT, the next step is medical school, which lasts for another four years. If you're still passionate about orthopedics by the end of medical school, you can apply for orthopedic residency programs. These residencies typically last between 4 to 7 years, depending on the specific specialty you opt for. It's important to remember that many students often change their minds about their preferred field of medicine. Medical school is a treasure trove of knowledge and you'll discover so many fascinating fields that you currently know nothing about. Embrace the journey and keep an open mind - who knows where it might lead you!
Once you've earned your college degree and achieved a good score on the MCAT, the next step is medical school, which lasts for another four years. If you're still passionate about orthopedics by the end of medical school, you can apply for orthopedic residency programs. These residencies typically last between 4 to 7 years, depending on the specific specialty you opt for. It's important to remember that many students often change their minds about their preferred field of medicine. Medical school is a treasure trove of knowledge and you'll discover so many fascinating fields that you currently know nothing about. Embrace the journey and keep an open mind - who knows where it might lead you!