Pediatric dermatologists treat skin disorders in children and teens. To become one, an individual needs a medical degree, residency, and fellowship training. Undergraduate studies in biology or health can prepare for medical school, and internships are valuable. After graduation, a residency in dermatology is required, followed by fellowship training in pediatric dermatology. Board certification is necessary to work independently.
Pediatric dermatologists diagnose and treat young patients with chronic and acute skin disorders. Professionals have expert knowledge of how common infections and conditions affect babies, children, and teens. A person who wants to become a pediatric dermatologist usually needs to earn a medical school degree and participate in up to six years of residency and fellowship training. After completing training requirements and passing national certification exams, an individual can become a pediatric dermatologist at a children’s hospital, dermatology joint practice, or a private practice.
A four-year bachelor’s degree program in biology or health can prepare an individual for medical school. Most accredited universities allow future physicians to focus on pre-medical studies during the time they are graduates. A student who eventually wants to become a pediatric dermatologist can benefit from classes in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, mathematics and developmental psychology. Classes in the science lab are important as they can provide an introduction to the type of research work a student will do in medical school.
Many undergraduate students interested in medical careers apply for internships and entry-level paid positions while pursuing their degree. Indeed, medical schools often place a high value on candidates with hands-on experience working with physicians and patients. A student can typically take a national entrance test and begin submitting application materials for the last two years of a bachelor’s degree program.
Medical school usually takes four years to complete, during which time a student attends classes, participates in laboratory research, and interns at local hospitals and clinics. A student who wants to become a pediatric dermatologist can meet with professors and academic advisors to determine which classes will best prepare him or her for this career. During internships, students typically observe and assist physicians in a variety of specialties in order to broaden their understanding of the profession.
After graduation, an individual may apply for a three- to four-year residency program in dermatology. A resident continues to attend classes and works directly with patients under supervision. He or she gains valuable first-hand experience working with dermatology equipment and learning how to treat various skin disorders. Many physicians take exams and enter general practices after their residencies, but a person who wants to become a pediatric dermatologist typically needs to complete an additional two years of fellowship training.
A fellowship can take place in a hospital or a small pediatric dermatology clinic. An individual has the chance to treat a large number of young patients under the guidance and supervision of established physicians. He or she becomes familiar with childhood disorders and the ways in which skin problems can affect children differently than adults. With the proper training and knowledge, a new physician can take a national exam to gain board certification and the right to begin working independently.
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