1. Undergraduate Education (Bachelor's Degree): While not always required (some medical schools accept students with non-science degrees), most aspiring doctors pursue a Bachelor's degree, typically in a science-related field such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or pre-med. This provides a strong foundation in the sciences necessary for medical school. These degrees are obtained at universities and colleges.
2. Medical School (MD or DO): This is the core of medical education. A Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree is offered by allopathic medical schools, and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree is offered by osteopathic medical schools. Both lead to the practice of medicine, but osteopathic medicine emphasizes a holistic approach that incorporates the musculoskeletal system. Medical schools are affiliated with universities and are highly competitive to get into.
3. Residency: After medical school, doctors enter a residency program, a rigorous period of on-the-job training in a specific medical specialty (e.g., surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics). Residencies last from 3 to 7 years, depending on the specialty. These are hospital-based programs.
4. Fellowship (Optional): Some specialties require or offer further sub-specialization through a fellowship, which is an advanced training program lasting 1 to 3 years. This allows doctors to focus on a narrower area of expertise within their chosen specialty. These are also hospital-based.
In summary, the education and training to become a doctor takes place at:
* Universities and Colleges: For the undergraduate degree.
* Medical Schools (allopathic and osteopathic): For the MD or DO degree.
* Hospitals: For residency and fellowship training.
The entire process typically takes 7-14 years or more after high school graduation.