Expertise
A physician must complete more than eleven years of higher education before practicing medicine independently.
After a student earns a bachelor’s degree, entry into medical school generally requires a minimum 3.7 grade point average in courses including biology, biochemistry, physics, advanced math, English and behavioral or social science; and a minimum score of 510 on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to be considered for admission.
In addition to the academic requirements, most schools require non-academic attributes and experiences including but not limited to honesty, integrity, empathy, communication skills, service and volunteer hours, medical related experiences, extracurricular activities and/or work experiences, research experience, teamwork, and leadership.
Once admitted into medical school, students spend four years earning a medical doctorate degree. The time and dedication required for success is equivalent to two full time jobs. After completion of medical school, graduates are required years in internship and residency tailored to their field of choice. On average, this is three to seven years, but is often more for specialized areas of focus. Students are often well into their thirties before completing their education.
After finishing residency, physicians must pass board exams to practice fully in their specialty, and many must retest and pass their boards every ten years to ensure they are staying current with their knowledge of the field. This is in addition to continue education credits required each year.
Alabama has four medical schools
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UAB Heersink School of Medicine | Birmingham, Alabama and Huntsville, Alabama
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The University of South Alabama | Mobile, Alabama
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The Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine | Dothan, Alabama
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Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine | Auburn, Alabama