In order to have a career as a dermatologist, a prospective student should:
- Complete a Bachelor degree that includes Biology, Organic Chemistry, and Physics courses;
- Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) exam for medical school.
- Complete 4 years of training at a medical school or osteopathic school;
- The medical school training would include rotations through several hospital departments;
- Obtain a license that gives one the right to practice medicine;
- Complete one year of general residency and 2 or 3 years of a specialized accredited residency in dermatology that involves 12,000-16,000 hours of caring for patients;
Join a fellowship in order to specialize in general dermatology or dermatological sub-specialty, for instance:
- Blistering diseases;
- Cutaneous lymphomas;
- Dermatologic surgery;
- Dermatopathology;
- Esthetic dermatology;
- Pediatric dermatology;
- Autoimmune skin diseases such as Psoriasis;
- Nail disorders;
Obtain certification from one of the two boards:
- American Board of Dermatology;
- American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology;
Become a fellow of the American Board of Dermatology (FAAD). Sit for a specialized dermatology exam every 10 years.
