How long does it take to become a doctor?

Becoming a doctor typically requires a significant amount of time and education. The exact duration can vary depending on the country, the type of medical degree, and the specialty pursued. Here's a general timeline of the educational path to becoming a doctor in the United States:

1. Undergraduate Education (4 years):

- Earn a bachelor's degree, often in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences.

2. Medical School (4 years):

- Attend medical school and obtain a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

3. Residency Program (3-7 years):

- After medical school, complete a residency program in a specific medical specialty, such as surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, etc. The length of residency varies by specialty.

4. Optional: Fellowship (1-3 years):

- For further specialization in a particular area of medicine, some doctors pursue a fellowship after completing residency.

Adding up these stages, it can take approximately 11-15 years of postsecondary education and training to become a fully licensed doctor in the United States.

Please note that these are approximate durations, and the actual time may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific requirements in different jurisdictions.