The dermatologist plays a very important role in the healthcare industry. However, one does not become a dermatologist overnight. In order to become a dermatologist, you must take the appropriate college classes and make good grades in these classes. And as a result, these such classes will prepare you for a career in dermatology. Read on to learn which specific college classes you must take to pursue this profession.
Significance
A dermatologist is responsible for diagnosing and treating skin disorders and diseases. However, in order to become a dermatologist, one must receive several years of education and training before he can practice in this field. Students who are interested in dermatology, typically major in pre-medicine or biology (or a similar field of study) while in college. And as a result, students must take a variety of science and medical courses to prepare them for this career choice. Since taking science classes is essential for a career in dermatalogy, students must successfully pass all of these classes before entering into medical school.
Required Classes
If you are interested in becoming a dermatologist, you are going to need to take the following required classes while in college (undergraduate): English, inorganic and organic chemistry, humanities, social sciences, physics, mathematics and biology classes. These classes are usually requirements for all pre-med and science majors, no matter where you attend college. Please keep in mind that you must also complete additional class requirements, such as electives, foreign language and physical education classes, in order to earn your Bachelor's degree. In addition, you must take the following classes while in medical school: anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, laws governing medicine and classes in your area of specialization.
Time Frame
It normally takes about four years to complete the requirements for a Bachelor of Science degree or pre-med degree in college. It takes approximately four more years to finish all of the required classes in medical school. Please keep in mind that it will take you much longer to complete the required college classes if you only attend school part-time, or if you have to re-take classes in order to earn a higher grade. In addition, you may choose to attend summer school, in order to finish college sooner.
Warning
Becoming a dermatologist is challenging and it takes hard work and dedication in order to succeed in your classes. It is important to realize that the grades that you earn in your college science classes does play a significant role in whether or not you get accepted into a dermatology program. Poor performance in your undergraduate classes can greatly affect your chances of becoming a dermatologist. Also, re-taking classes or having excessive withdrawals on your college transcript can have a negative impact on your future in dermatalogy as well.
Considerations
If you are interested in becoming a dermatologist, then you should speak with a college counselor or advisor as soon as possible to learn more about the required classes for this career. A counselor or advisor can help you choose the appropriate major and select the proper classes to take based on your interests and goals. You should also think about the area of dermatology you want to major in, such as pediatric dermatology, dermatopathology, surgical dermatology or dermatological immunology. Your college counselor needs to know this information as well, to ensure that you take the correct college classes.
Tags: must take, become dermatologist, becoming dermatologist, college classes, medical school, required classes