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How many years does it take to become a pediatrician ?

how many years of college is it to have a degree in pediatrics?

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Michael’s Answer

Hi Noelia:

According to Indeed.com, here are the educational and professional pathways to become a Pediatrician:

11 - 15 Years = Overall Total Years to become a Pediatrician which is comprised of:

- 4 Years = Bachelors Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Specialized Health Sciences or Social Sciences
- 4 Years = Medical School
- Obtain a Medical License
- Complete a Residency Program and Internship
- Consider a Fellowship
- Consider a Board Certification

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-pediatrician

While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a Pediatrician career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.

Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Pediatrician, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway to becoming a Pediatrician.

According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a link to the Best Colleges and Universities with Pediatric programs:

- University of Pennsylvania (Perelman)
- Harvard University
- University of Cincinnati
- John Hopkins University
- University of California (San Francisco)
- University of California (Los Angeles-Geffen)
- Baylor College of Medicine
- Stanford University
- University of Colorado
- Duke University
- Ohio State University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of Washington

https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-medical-schools/pediatrics-rankings

When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:

- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral

Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.

You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.

Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:

https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/

https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships

Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.

Best wishes for your education and career path in Pediatrics!
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Scott’s Answer

Hi Noelia. I am an internist (a general medical doctor for adults) and know about the process. I don't know what grade you are in now but in general, after graduating HS it takes 4 years of college to get a bachelor's degree. It is not required to major in a science in college but there are some required classes to complete in order to apply to medical school and generally excellent grades are required for acceptance to medical school. College is followed by 4 years of medical school and then at least 3 years of post-medical school training to become a pediatrician. Additional training would be necessary if you decide to specialize even further (for example if you decide to become a pediatric cardiologist) in which case it could involve 2-3 years or more of additional time. Good luck!
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Nick’s Answer

The journey to becoming a pediatric physician typically spans about 11 years after graduating from high school. This process begins with a 4-year bachelor's degree, which is then succeeded by another 4 years spent in medical school. Following medical school, you'll undertake a 3-year residency program focused on pediatrics. However, it's worth noting that there are other roles within the healthcare field that also specialize in pediatrics and require less time to qualify for, like pediatric nursing.
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