How Long to Become an Immunologist

Immunologists study immunological disorders and the human immune system. People who are suffering from primary or secondary immune conditions can access their services. These professionals perform different tests and develop treatment plans for their patients.

Immunologist Schools Near Me

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Immunology is part of the medical field and like all other specializations, this requires determination as well. Immunologists make sure that their patients live a quality life with good health. These professionals perform multiple duties. Some immunologists prefer to practice, while others choose to remain in an academic setting.

As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Physicians and Surgeons are enjoying a good growth rate as compared to other professions. They are projected to experience a growth of 3% from 2020-2030. Growing and ageing population will be accessing these services more often which will increase the demand. As the population grows older, chronic illnesses will increase and latest technologies will be used to conduct tests which will facilitate physicians in treating more patients.

1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree

To begin the journey of becoming an immunologist, students have to pursue a 4-year undergraduate program. There are no specific major requirements, so they can choose any program. However, they are required to focus on science and math related courses.

2. Take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)

As the second step, aspiring immunologists will be taking the standardized MCAT. The test will evaluate students’ knowledge through Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). It will also assess their critical thinking, analytical abilities and verbal reasoning.

3. Get a Medical Degree

In order to earn the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, students have to obtain a 4-year medical degree. During this program, they study courses like psychology, pharmacology and anatomy, etc. In the initial two years, students focus on classroom learning. While in the last two years, they are allowed to work with patients under expert supervision.

4. Finish a Residency Program

Completing the residency program allows students to practice what they learnt. During this process they gain a lot of exposure and learn various skills. It involves rotations which gives residents the chance to experience multiple specialties. However, the most common career path for immunologist is internal medicine. At this point, students can take the American Board of Internal Medicine’s exam to obtain medical licensure.

5. Complete a Fellowship

After completing the residency program, these professionals participate in a fellowship program. During this program they gain intense knowledge and experience. These professionals get to work with patients who are suffering from immune-based diseases. They also spend time in specialized areas like allergies or auto-immune disorders.

6. Get Certified

Immunologists have to get certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) or the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Once they get these certificates and complete their fellowship, they become eligible to get certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI). However, they have to pass the ABAI exam.

Aspiring immunologist have to complete the education requirement that will take 8 years including, a 4-year undergraduate and a 4-year graduate program at a medical school. They also have to complete their medical residency followed by a fellowship program.

Following are the requirements to become an immunologist:

 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Physicians, All Other; and Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric were earning an annual mean salary of $218,850 in 2020.

You May Also Like

How to Become an Orthopedist
How to Become a Psychiatrist
How to Become an Ophthalmologist