Doctors have to treat and diagnose illnesses, physical problems and injuries. They obtain medical histories, treat patients, perform, order and interpret different tests. These professionals often advise patients on hygiene, diet and preventive healthcare. They are also responsible for updating patient information to show current findings. Doctors design and recommend plans for treatments as well.

Should I Become a Doctor

If you love helping people live their best lives, the field of medicine might be for you. Have a look at the following career statistics for Physicians and Surgeons.

Education Required Medical Degree or Ph.D.
Major Requirement Medicine
License/Certification Required
Experience/Training 3-7 years residency
Key Skills Communication Skills, Organizational Skills, Problem-solving Skills, Physical Stamina, Leadership Skills, Dexterity, Patience, Detail oriented, Compassionate
Annual Mean Salary – US (2020) $218,850 (Physicians, all other and Ophthalmologists, except Pediatric)
Annual Mean Salary – Nebraska (2020) $230,330 (Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatri)
Job Outlook – Nebraska (2018-2028) 7% (Physicians, All Other)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*Net Online

Career Requirements

To become a Doctor, students are required to complete a Ph. D or a Medical Degree. Undergraduate work should be relevant to the field of medicine. Physicians need to have communication and organizational skills so they can communicate with patients and keep a record of their medical history. They are required to have dexterity so they can perform all the procedures. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for physicians and surgeons are expected to grow 7% from 2018-2028.

Steps to Become a Doctor in Nebraska

  1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree

  2. There is no specific major required to enroll in a medical school. However, students are expected to take science related courses like biology, physics and chemistry. Those who choose science related majors have better knowledge of medical concepts.

  1. Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

  2. Medical schools require students to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). It is a mandatory test which consists of MCQs covering topics from general chemistry, biology, organic chemistry to physics. It also assesses students’ knowledge on scientific principles, critical thinking, problem solving and writing skills.

  1. Get a Medical Degree

  2. Students who do well on MCAT have a higher chance of getting admission in a medical school through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS). The first two years of the medical program focus on academic coursework which includes multiple topics like microbiology, anatomy, physiology and medical laws and ethics. The last two years require students to work in clinical rotations. These rotations allow students to work directly with patients under the supervision of a professional. Students are exposed to areas like gynecology, internal medicine and psychiatry, etc.

  1. Complete a Residency Program

  2. After graduating from medical school, students have to complete their residency program. During this program, residents receive on-the-job training in their chosen area of specialization. The program lasts for 3-7 years and allows students to work with patients at a hospital or a clinic.

  1. Obtain Licensure

  2. To obtain a license in Nebraska, professionals have to complete their graduation from an accredited medical school. They have to pass all state and national exams including the Unites States Medicinal Licensing Exam (USMLE) or Federation Licensing Examination (FLEX), National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX- USA) and Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC). Students are required to earn continuing education credits to get their licensed renewed.

  1. Get Certified

  2. Although it is not mandatory, some professionals get certified to advance their career.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor in Nebraska?

Prospective doctors have to complete a 4-year bachelor’s program followed by a 4-year graduate program at an accredited medical school. After they have finished all the necessary education requirements, students have to complete a medical residency program which can last from 3-7 years depending on the area of specialty.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Doctor in Nebraska?

Following are the requirements to become a doctor in Nebraska:

  • Get a Bachelor’s degree
  • Clear MCAT and get admission in an accredited medical college
  • Obtain a medical degree and complete the medical residency program
  • Pass the USMLE or FLEX, NBME, NBOME or COMLEX-USA and LMCC

 

How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Doctor in Nebraska

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary of Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric in the state of Nebraska was $230,330 in 2020.

Career Outlook for Doctors in Nebraska

As per the data provided by O*Net Online, “Physicians, All Other” will experience 7% employment growth between 2018 and 2028, a figure 2% higher than the national growth rate for the same period.

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