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How to get a bachelor's degree?

Hi I would like to be a dermatologist so if I take the following classes in college would I be able to get my degree in the 4 years of college? Biology – 2 semesters with lab
Physics – 2 semesters with lab
General chemistry – 2 semesters with lab
Organic chemistry – 2 semesters with lab
Biochemistry – 1 semester
English – 2 semesters
Math – 2 semesters
Psychology
and MAYBE Statistics
and what would I major in

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

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Morelia’s Answer

Hello!

Once you've obtained your bachelor's degree, the next step on your journey to becoming a dermatologist is to apply for medical school. This is a crucial step, as medical school is a requirement for this career path. The good news is, you can major in any subject you prefer, as long as you complete the necessary coursework required by your chosen medical school. While the specific classes needed can vary from one medical school to another, there are some general prerequisites that are typically required, which are listed below.

Navigating the medical school application process can be quite complex and selective. Therefore, it's recommended to engage in extracurricular activities during your undergraduate years. These could include volunteering at hospitals or clinics, shadowing physicians and other healthcare professionals, or gaining clinical exposure, such as working as a nursing assistant in a nursing home. While the process may seem daunting, remember to stay positive and motivated. You can do it!

Here are the general prerequisites:

- Introductory Biology I with Lab
- Introductory Biology II with Lab
- General Chemistry I with Lab
- General Chemistry II with Lab
- Introductory Physics I with Lab
- Introductory Physics II with Lab
- Organic Chemistry I with Lab
- Organic Chemistry II with Lab
- Biochemistry
- Calculus and/or Statistics
- English or writing (2 semesters)
- Humanities (2 semesters)
Thank you comment icon I appreciate your support, Morelia gab
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Susan’s Answer

Hello Gab,

As previously mentioned, taking science classes during your undergraduate studies can be beneficial, but the next crucial step is to sit for the MCAT exam and apply to medical school. If you're successful in gaining admission, you'll embark on a four-year journey in the medical program. Upon completion, you'll earn your "white coat", signifying that you've achieved your MD degree.

In your final year of medical school, you'll need to apply for a residency program at a hospital. This is a period of practical training that lasts a minimum of three years, but it could extend much longer, particularly for surgical specializations. Medical students typically apply to various residency programs across the nation.

Dermatology, like many other specializations, is highly sought-after, resulting in fewer available residency spots. Hence, it's advisable to be prepared for the possibility of not securing a spot and to consider other specialties that might interest you.

If dermatology truly fascailsnates you, I recommend seeking advice from a practicing Dermatologist or even your primary care physician. From my experience, they are usually more than willing to share their journey, as it's a testament to their hard work and the many years of education they've undertaken to become practicing doctors.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! this is gonna help a ton gab
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Joseph’s Answer

It really depends on the school's curriculum and how they have the classes arranged. When you start your search for schools should contact an advisor and provide them with your details. They can guide you. Below is a list of studies you will be responsible for.

What courses should you study to become a dermatologist?
Biology.
General chemistry.
Organic chemistry.
Biochemistry.
Genetics.
Physics.
Psychology.
English.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. gab
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Gab,

To become a dermatologist, you typically need to complete a bachelor’s degree followed by medical school and a residency in dermatology. The classes you have listed are generally the pre-medical requirements that most medical schools expect applicants to have completed. Here is a breakdown of how these classes align with the typical pre-medical coursework:

Biology – 2 semesters with lab: This is a common requirement for pre-medical students as it provides a foundational understanding of living organisms and their processes.

Physics – 2 semesters with lab: Physics is also a common prerequisite for medical school as it helps students develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of physical principles that apply to the human body.

General chemistry – 2 semesters with lab: General chemistry is essential for understanding chemical reactions and basic principles that underpin biological processes.

Organic chemistry – 2 semesters with lab: Organic chemistry builds upon general chemistry and provides insight into the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds, which are fundamental to understanding biochemistry.

Biochemistry – 1 semester: Biochemistry is crucial for medical school preparation as it delves into the chemical processes within and related to living organisms.

English – 2 semesters: Strong communication skills are vital for healthcare professionals, hence the English requirement.

Math – 2 semesters: Mathematics, particularly statistics, is important for data analysis in research and understanding scientific studies.

Psychology: Understanding human behavior and mental processes can be beneficial in patient care and interactions.

Statistics (optional): Statistics can be useful in research and data analysis in various fields including medicine.

For your major, you can choose any field as long as you complete the necessary pre-medical coursework. Common majors among pre-medical students include Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or even non-science majors like Psychology or Sociology. It’s important to maintain a high GPA throughout your undergraduate studies to be competitive for medical school admissions.

In summary, by completing the listed classes along with other requirements such as extracurricular activities, volunteering, shadowing experiences, and a strong performance on the MCAT exam, you would be on track to apply to medical school after completing your bachelor’s degree.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): AAMC provides guidelines and resources for aspiring medical students regarding pre-medical coursework requirements.

American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM): AACOM offers information on osteopathic medical education requirements which align closely with allopathic medical education.

U.S. News & World Report - Education Section: U.S. News & World Report publishes rankings and guides related to undergraduate programs and medical schools which can be helpful in planning your educational path towards becoming a dermatologist.

God Bless You,
JC.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for taking the time of day for me. God bless you! gab
Thank you comment icon MORE BLESSINGS THAN I CAN BESTOW ARE ASKED FOR! IN JESUS' NAME! James Constantine Frangos
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