How to Become a Cardiology Consultant?

Educational Path

* Undergraduate Degree: Most medical schools require an undergraduate degree for admissions. There are no strict rules for the major you apply with. However, a lot of students go for degrees like biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, molecular biology, anatomy and physiology, public health, etc.

* Apply for Medical School: There are numerous medical schools offering MD degrees in both the United States and Canada. The application process requires a minimum GPA, scores from the MCATs (Medical College Admissions Test), letters of recommendations from professors, and a personal statement of intent explaining why you want to become a doctor. After a thorough screening, you will receive either an acceptance letter or a rejection letter.

* Medical School: Medical school generally lasts for four years. The first two years are mostly focused on lectures in basic science subjects like anatomy and physiology. The last two years are mostly clinical rotations where students get to work in hospital wards of various specialties including cardiology.

* Residency in Internal Medicine: After medical school, you will require to pursue residency in internal medicine. This lasts for between three to four years. During this period, you are involved in medical care delivery and further build on the knowledge you learned during medical school.

* Cardiology Fellowship: The cardiology fellowship is further specialization in cardiology. This lasts for approximately three years and involves rigorous training in cardiology such as cardiac catheterization and advanced heart failure techniques.

Other Routes to Become a Cardiologist

Some countries offer integrated programs to become a cardiologist. Such a program combines medical education and general residency, and sub-specialty training. Integrated training generally lasts for 12 years.