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What is the general education process to become a heart surgeon?
I have plans to be a heart surgeon, but I can't find much information on what schools I'll have to go to or how long.
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2 answers
Cherilyn Garner
Medical Office Practice Manager; Certified Medical Assistant (
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Polkton, North Carolina
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Cherilyn’s Answer
Typically, becoming a heart surgeon takes a long educational path, but the steps are very clear. First, you complete a 4‑year bachelor’s degree, usually with science courses like biology, chemistry, and physics to prepare for medical school. After that, you attend medical school for another 4 years, where you spend your first two years learning medical science in the classroom and the last two years doing clinical rotations, including surgery. [nc.gov]
Once you finish medical school, you complete a general surgery residency, which typically lasts 5–7 years, followed by a 2–3‑year cardiothoracic surgery fellowship to specialize in heart surgery. Altogether, becoming a heart surgeon usually takes 13–15 years after high school. If you already know this is the path you want, you’re ahead of the game — just focus on doing well in school now and preparing for the long but rewarding journey.
Once you finish medical school, you complete a general surgery residency, which typically lasts 5–7 years, followed by a 2–3‑year cardiothoracic surgery fellowship to specialize in heart surgery. Altogether, becoming a heart surgeon usually takes 13–15 years after high school. If you already know this is the path you want, you’re ahead of the game — just focus on doing well in school now and preparing for the long but rewarding journey.
Updated
Magan’s Answer
If you dream of becoming a heart surgeon, start by earning a bachelor's degree in a science like biology, chemistry, or physics. After that, you'll attend medical school and graduate with a DO or MD degree. Keep going, and you'll be on your way to achieving your goal!