In order to qualify as a cardiologist, one needs to:
- Complete a pre-med Bachelor’s degree.
- Volunteer in the medical setting and keep your GPA high through college.
- Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam.
- Complete the first 2 years of medical school that include theoretical medicine-related courses.
- Pass the first stage of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
- Complete the hospital rotations.
- Pass the second stage of USMLE.
- Attend 3-4-year residency training in internal medicine.
- One may have to complete different requirements based on the chosen cardiology sub-specialty (residencies in pediatrics, internal medicine, or surgery).
- Join a cardiology fellowship for around 3 years.
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Further, you can choose sub-specialty training in cardiology:
Obtain certification in cardiology through the American Board of Internal Medicine:
- Become a member of the American Heart Association or American College of cardiology in order to increase your chances of being hired/promoted;