Hey all, I'm planning on pursuing a career in medicine, and I was just wondering: how long does medical school generally take after finishing a bachelor's degree? I know I need to complete my undergrad first, but I want to have an idea of the overall timeline. Thanks in advance!
Hello! It's great to see that you're considering a career in medicine. Medical school typically takes four years to complete after finishing your bachelor's degree. To give you a general idea of the timeline, here's a breakdown:
1. Bachelor's degree (4 years): You will need to complete your undergraduate studies, which usually takes around four years. During this time, you should focus on taking relevant courses, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, and maintaining a strong GPA.
2. MCAT and medical school applications (1 year): After completing your bachelor's degree, you will need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply for medical schools. The application process may take up to a year, as you'll want to spend time preparing for the MCAT, researching schools, and submitting applications.
3. Medical school (4 years): Medical school typically lasts four years. The first two years usually consist of classroom and lab work in basic science courses, while the last two years involve clinical rotations in various medical specialties.
4. Residency (3-7 years): After completing medical school, you will need to complete a residency program, which can range from 3-7 years, depending on your chosen specialty. During this time, you'll gain hands-on experience and training under the supervision of experienced physicians.
5. Fellowship (optional, 1-3 years): If you decide to further specialize, you may pursue a fellowship after completing your residency. Fellowships can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on the specialty.
The entire process of pursuing a career in medicine, including your undergraduate studies, medical school, and post-graduate training, can take anywhere from 11 to 17 years or more, depending on your chosen specialty and whether you pursue a fellowship. It's essential to keep this timeline in mind as you plan your educational and professional goals. Best of luck on your journey!
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