Becoming a dermatologist is no easy feat. It requires extensive education and training, with an estimated 40,000 hours of study and practice. To become a certified dermatologist, you must complete four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of residency. After certification, you may choose to pursue additional training in a subspecialty, which can take several more years.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the four main branches of dermatology and the prerequisites for becoming a dermatologist. We will also discuss the differences between estheticians and dermatologists, as well as the importance of nationally or programmatically accredited schools. The four main branches of dermatology are medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and pediatric dermatology. Medical dermatology focuses on diagnosing and treating skin diseases such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
Surgical dermatology involves performing skin surgeries such as biopsies and Mohs surgery. Cosmetic dermatology focuses on improving the appearance of the skin through minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments and chemical peels. Pediatric dermatology specializes in treating skin conditions in children. To become a licensed esthetician, an individual must complete a minimum of 600 hours of training within a 6-month period. Some states require 750 hours of training.
The prerequisites to enroll in these programs generally only require a high school education or a GED certificate. In contrast to estheticians, dermatologists must complete at least 12 years of coursework and patient care before they can apply for certification with the American Board of Dermatology. This includes four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of residency. For international applicants, TOEFL or IELTS test scores are also required to demonstrate high levels of academic English proficiency. It is important to note that nationally or programmatically accredited schools ensure students, future employers, and patients that a dermatologist's education and training meets high, peer-reviewed standards. Earning a bachelor's degree from a four-year university is the first step to becoming a dermatologist.
This may include pre-medical courses in biology, organic chemistry, physics, and general chemistry. Some students must also complete mathematics and biochemistry courses depending on the medical school they want to attend. In conclusion, becoming a dermatologist requires dedication and hard work. It is estimated that an average of 40,000 hours of training is devoted to becoming a dermatologist. After completing the necessary coursework and patient care requirements, you must apply for certification with the American Board of Dermatology before you can practice as a certified dermatologist.
