Aspiring doctors must spend several years in medical school to train for their profession, usually embarking upon a work experience program known as a residency after they graduate. Medical school lasts for four years with the first two being dedicated to subjects like anatomy, biochemistry, pathology and the behavioral sciences, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges. The final two years are spent working with patients in clinical settings, learning how to examine and care for them while exploring various branches of the medical field, like dermatology and pediatrics.
In the past, nursing schools were typically small institutes affiliated with hospitals that awarded diplomas or certificates allowing students to work as registered nurses. Though some such schools still exist, most nurses today study for bachelor's degrees in nursing at universities and colleges. Nursing school has a similar layout to med school, with students spending the first two years studying the sciences, such as physiology and human development. The last half of nursing school is dedicated to practical classes preparing students for the real world, such as child health, nursing theory and pharmacology.
Though no one likes going to the dentist, they are important medical professionals who train for four years to enter their field. Students spend the first two years of dental school in the classroom, taking science classes like microbiology and introductory dental health classes, where they study the basics of teeth and the mouth. The last half of dental school is spent in a clinical setting, working with patients to train in procedures like filling cavities, while taking advanced classes in subjects like endodontics and oral surgery. Students typically spend their last semester working exclusively with patients before taking their licensing exams, according to Dental Student Books.
Many supporting careers in the medical field, like ultrasound technician and practical nurse, require only two years of education, usually offered at technical schools and community colleges. Course programs vary, but most require little in the way of general education requirements as most four-year degree programs do, instead focusing on practical, hands-on training courses which prepare students for their specific career field. Students attending such programs usually earn an associate's degree or certificate in their area of study.