Degree needed to become a doctor?

Hey guys, I'm really interested in becoming a doctor. I'm wondering if you can tell me what degree or major I should aim for in college to get on the right path? Thanks!

Hi there, it's exciting to hear that you're interested in becoming a doctor! To start your journey, you'll first need to earn a bachelor's degree, typically in a science-related major. While you don't necessarily have to major in a science field, it's a good idea to do so since medical school prerequisites are mostly science courses.

Popular majors for pre-med students include Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry. Some students also choose majors like Neuroscience, Physics, or even non-science fields, as long as they complete the required prerequisites. Be sure to research the prerequisites of the specific medical schools you're interested in applying to, as they may vary.

Another crucial aspect of the pre-med path is completing the necessary coursework as well as engaging in relevant extracurricular activities to build a strong medical school application. These can include volunteering, clinical experience, and research.

Lastly, after completing your four-year bachelor's degree, you'll apply to medical schools to pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, which typically takes an additional 4 years. Following medical school, you'll complete a residency program in your chosen specialty, which can range anywhere from 3-7 years depending on the field.

So, to sum it up, you should aim to get a bachelor's degree in a field that you're interested in while also fulfilling the medical school prerequisites. Remember to engage in relevant extracurriculars so that you can build a competitive application for medical school. Good luck!