How long to become a doctor in Australia?
Becoming a doctor in Australia typically takes around 12 to 13 years of education and training:
Undergraduate Degree (3-4 years):
Start with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, biomedical science, or health science.
Medical School (4 years):
After completing the undergraduate degree, candidates can apply to medical school, which typically lasts four years and covers a range of medical sciences, clinical skills, and patient interactions.
Internship (1 year):
Upon graduating from medical school, graduates undertake a supervised internship year where they gain practical experience working in various hospital departments.
Residency Training (3-5 years):
After the internship, doctors pursue specialist training through residency programs. The duration of residency varies depending on the specialty and may range from three to five years. During this phase, doctors work under supervision and gain expertise in their chosen field.
Fellowship Training (optional, 1-3 years):
Some specialties, such as cardiology or neurosurgery, require additional sub-specialty training called fellowships. This can add another one to three years of training.
Total Time:
Considering all these stages—undergraduate, medical school, internship, residency, and potential fellowship—the total duration to become a fully licensed and practicing doctor in Australia is approximately 12 to 13 years.
It's worth noting that the specific requirements and duration may vary slightly among universities and medical institutions. Additionally, the Australian Medical Council (AMC) sets the standards and accreditation requirements for medical education in Australia.