2 answers
Miranda
Student
Longview, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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What are the best majors for becoming a pediatrician?
I am eager to learn about which majors are most beneficial for becoming a pediatrician, as I want to make informed choices that will best prepare me for medical school and a career in medicine. Understanding the recommended academic paths—such as biology, chemistry, or other health-related majors—will help me focus my studies and develop the necessary foundation in science and patient care. By exploring the different options and requirements, I can set myself up for success on the journey to achieving my dream of becoming a pediatrician.
So for anyone reading, please help on what majors is best
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2 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Miranda,
There is no "best" undergraduate degree to become a physician. You can get your bachelors in anything you enjoy. Many students choose a science undergrad degree, e.g. biology, chemistry, biochemistry etc because it covers many of the pre-requisite courses and prepares you for the MCAT.
But you can choose a different major as long as you also cover the pre-requisites. Statistically, students with different majors do not perform worse in the MCAT or in admission than those in the bio/chemistry majors.
I would look as your undergrad degree as your backup plan. If you don't end up going to med school (because life happens), would you enjoy making a career out of your undergraduate degree?
Now, to become a pediatrician, a major in the bio/chem universe is always a solid choice, but psychology or child development could also be beneficial and open up alternative career paths.
I hope this helps. All the best to you!
KP
There is no "best" undergraduate degree to become a physician. You can get your bachelors in anything you enjoy. Many students choose a science undergrad degree, e.g. biology, chemistry, biochemistry etc because it covers many of the pre-requisite courses and prepares you for the MCAT.
But you can choose a different major as long as you also cover the pre-requisites. Statistically, students with different majors do not perform worse in the MCAT or in admission than those in the bio/chemistry majors.
I would look as your undergrad degree as your backup plan. If you don't end up going to med school (because life happens), would you enjoy making a career out of your undergraduate degree?
Now, to become a pediatrician, a major in the bio/chem universe is always a solid choice, but psychology or child development could also be beneficial and open up alternative career paths.
I hope this helps. All the best to you!
KP
Jennifer Schriever
Senior Business Analyst
2
Answers
Yorba Linda, California
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Miranda,
If you enjoy science: Biology or Chemistry/Biochemistry are great choices. If you excel in math and problem-solving: consider Physics or Math. If your strengths lean toward communication or social insights: Humanities or Social Sciences are also excellent. Whatever you choose, make sure that you complete your pre-med requirements, maintain a strong GPA, and gain pediatric-focused experiences (shadowing, volunteering, clinical work).
By picking a major you’re passionate about—and pairing it with the necessary prerequisites and real-world experience—you’ll build a competitive and genuine path to becoming a pediatrician.
Best of luck to you, we need more doctors!!
Jennifer S.
If you enjoy science: Biology or Chemistry/Biochemistry are great choices. If you excel in math and problem-solving: consider Physics or Math. If your strengths lean toward communication or social insights: Humanities or Social Sciences are also excellent. Whatever you choose, make sure that you complete your pre-med requirements, maintain a strong GPA, and gain pediatric-focused experiences (shadowing, volunteering, clinical work).
By picking a major you’re passionate about—and pairing it with the necessary prerequisites and real-world experience—you’ll build a competitive and genuine path to becoming a pediatrician.
Best of luck to you, we need more doctors!!
Jennifer S.