Should I Become a Doctor
In order to become a doctor in Minnesota, or any other state for that matter, you ought to have a certain skillset, training and education. The following table outlines the key skills required to succeed in this field.
| Education Required | Medical Degree |
| Major Requirement | Medicine |
| License/Certification | Required |
| Experience/Training | 3-7 years residency |
| Key Skills | Compassion, Dexterity, Organizational and Communication Skills, Patience, Physical Stamina |
| Annual Mean Salary – US (2020) | $218,850 (Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric) |
| Annual Mean Salary – Minnesota (2020) | $244,720 (Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric) |
| Job Outlook – US (2018-2028) | 5% (Physicians, All Other ) |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Requirements
As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this profession are expected to grow by 7% from 2018-2028 all across the US. To become a doctor, one should be licensed. A doctor is expected to be an excellent communicator so he/she get the point across to the patients and their family members. Doctors should be detail oriented so they can accurately monitor the process of the treatment.
Steps to Become a Doctor in Minnesota
- Get a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming a doctor is to get a bachelor’s degree. Even though medical schools do not require any specific major but students have to take courses in physics, chemistry, biology and math. Students who take courses in health settings and natural sciences have a solid foundation.
- Give the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)
MCAT is a standardized and mandatory exam that students have to take to get themselves enrolled in a medical college. Along with subjects like math, biology, chemistry and physics, it also tests the candidates’ writing skills, problem-solving skills and verbal reasoning. MCAT scores are required in all colleges all over the US.
- Get Enrolled in a Medical College
Students who score well on the MCAT have a higher chance of getting enrolled in a medical college. The first two years of the college comprise of classroom studies and laboratory work. They focus on building medical knowledge, while in the final two years students are allowed to work with patients under the guidance of an experienced doctor. The clinical experience gives students a chance to figure out which specialty they would like to choose for their residency program.
- Complete Your Residency Program
Residency programs can last for 3-7 years depending on the area of specialization. Students work directly with patients. It develops different skills and teaches them how to perform under pressure.
- Obtain License
All doctors in the US have to take the standardized licensure exam. To become an M.D, students have to take the US Medicinal Licensing Exam. D.Os on the other hand have to take the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medicinal Licensing Exam (COMLEX-USA). Those who want to get a license in Minnesota have to give the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) and then apply for licensure. These professionals have to maintain 50 credits of continuing education to get their license renewed.
- Get Certified
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Even thought it is not necessary, some doctors get voluntary certificates to advance their career.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor in Minnesota?
To become a doctor, you have to complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree as well as a 4-year medical college program. After that, students have to complete a residency program which lasts 3-7 years. All in all, it can take you between 11-15 years to become a doctor.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Doctor in Minnesota?
Following are the requirements to become a doctor in Minnesota:
- Obtain an undergraduate degree
- Take the MCAT and get an admission in an accredited medical college
- Get a medical degree
- Clear the US standardized exam and PANCE exam for licensure
How Much Can I Make as a Doctor in Minnesota?
Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric and surgeons in Minnesota earned $236,270 as annual mean income in 2019. This information has been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career Outlook for Doctors in Minnesota
According to the latest data provided by O*Net Online, the occupational group of “Physicians, All Other” in the US will enjoy a 5% job growth during the decade, 2018 and 2028.