In order to become a dermatology specialist, you must first become a medical doctor. To prepare for medical school, it is best to start planning early. In fact, it is a very good idea to start preparing for your future career while you are still in high school. Take advanced courses in math and science, if possible, and try to focus specifically on biology courses if you have this option at your school.
It is essential, of course, that you obtain a bachelor's degree after leaving high school. While it is not necessary for you to major in any particular area as an undergraduate, it is recommended that you take a wide variety of science and math courses. Try to focus on biological and life sciences, but also take several chemistry and physics courses, so that you can prepare for medical school. Taking a heavy load of science courses will also help to prepare you for taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which you will need to take and obtain a good score on in order to get into medical school.
To become a dermatology specialist, you will need to plan for your future career several years in advance, in order to be adequately prepared for all of the different steps you will have to take along the way. Once you have a bachelor's degree and have passed the MCAT with an acceptable score, you will be ready for medical school. After medical school has been completed, you will have to complete a residency at a hospital or doctor's office. Medical students typically spend three years in residency. Students who specialize in a specific area, such as dermatology, may have to complete a longer term.
Individuals who want to become a dermatology specialist need to have a genuine interest in treating disorders of the skin, nails, and hair. Such a specialist usually works in one or more of four primary areas. These areas include prevention, diagnosis, cosmetic procedures, and surgery. The majority of dermatology specialists work in all of these areas, except for surgery. A small percentage of specialists also choose to become surgeons, in addition to their regular practice.
Anyone who wants to become a dermatology specialist should also enjoy helping people. Interested candidates should have a genuine interest in conducting research and staying up-to-date on the latest procedures for treating a variety of skin conditions. The reality is that becoming a dermatology specialist takes many years, and requires a commitment to lifelong learning to stay abreast of changes or advances in the field.
