what is a good subject to major in college to become a Pediatrician?

Hello Ruby:

During your college undergrad you could do a science major. Or, you can choose any other major as long as you meet the prerequisites for Medical School. I researched your question and below is information you may find useful. . . . .

During your pre-medical education, you will be required to fulfill certain coursework prerequisites. In addition, you should select other courses in the sciences and humanities to supplement this core curriculum, enhancing your education and your application to medical school.

Most schools agree on the basic elements for pre-medical education. Minimum course requirements include one year each of biology, general (inorganic) chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and related lab work for each. In addition, about two-thirds require English and about one quarter require calculus. A small number of schools have no specific course requirements.

Bear in mind that since the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) covers material from the commonly required courses, you will need to include those courses in your program of study whether or not they are medical school prerequisites. Nevertheless, many students are surprised to learn that the list of courses required by medical schools is so small. The best sources for admissions requirements for specific medical schools are the Medical School Admission Requirements (MSAR) and the Osteopathic Medical College Information Booklet.

These classes are nearly universal pre-med requirements, including basic science classes that are familiar to most science majors.

• Biology - Almost all of medicine requires basic understanding of biology, so it is a definite necessity for medical school. Knowing about genetics, cells, and the framework for life are the building blocks of medical science and are crucial for success in the field.
• Chemistry - Chemistry—and especially organic chemistry—provide a strong basis for understanding acid-base imbalances within the body and how different medications work. Chemistry is also the foundation for understanding biochemistry.
• Physics - Physics also introduces key medical concepts, such as laws of pressure and volume, which are incredibly important for cardiology and understanding the forces operating within the body.
• Mathematics - Some schools will require calculus, while others require statistics. Regardless, most schools require at least a semester of math. There’s a surprising amount of basic math and statistics that is important for daily life as a physician or health professional—from determining proper dosage to reading lab results.

This information was taken from KAPLAN site. . . . https://www.kaptest.com/study/mcat/the-prerequisites-of-medical-school/

Good Luck to You!

As a college counselor for many years, I have met a lot of people who want to become a doctor or pediatrician.

Believe it or not, you do not have to major in a science degree to become a doctor. To become a doctor takes a lot of work and to be admitted into a medical program. Depending on the field that you want to practice, will determine what medical program you would attend. What medical program you attend will determine what they require for your major in college. However, most students will major in a science degree.

I would encourage you to shadow a pediatrician and find out if you like the work. Ask the mentor how they became a pediatrician and hopefully that information will help you to determine what path you should take. I would also encourage you to find out what medical program you would like to attend and determine their requirements. Finding out that information should also help you to determine your major.

Sometimes you have to know where you want to be to know where you need to begin. I hope these words encourage you.

Like I often tell my students, sometimes the best at to move forward is to start at the end and work backwards. I would contact a few local pediatricians in your area and ask them the route that they took. I hope this helps.