Doctor Qualifications
Education
The educational qualifications for becoming a doctor are long and arduous. Your path will begin with a bachelors of science degree. Pre-med degrees are often the preferred starting point, but a related degree such as biology or chemistry can also work. You should attend the best quality school possible and have an excellent academic career, at least a 3.5 grade point average. An equally important factor in applying for medical school will be your performance on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT is a five-hour multiple-choice exam which covers physical science, biology, critical thinking, verbal skills, and writing abilities. Medical school will take another four years to complete. The first two years are generally devoted to book study and laboratory work. Clinical experience begins in the last two years. Students work under attending physicians and go through rotations at clinics and hospitals. Still reading? Okay, now you're ready for your residency.
Abilities
It takes a special type of person to become a doctor. You will need a strong work ethic, dedication, tenacity, and a real passion for medicine and caring for others. In order to make it through the rigorous educational qualification, aspiring doctors must possess strong math and science skills and an excellent memory for medical terminology, symptoms, anatomy, and medications. Once you begin the practical side of your medical training, you will need to develop good communication skills.
Experience
After completing medical school, doctors must complete 3-7 years of residency training before they are experienced enough for medical licensing. The length of your residency will depend on your particular specialization. Specializations such as pediatrician, obstetrician, or surgeon often come with longer residencies.
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