To become a prenatal doctor, you will typically need to complete several years of schooling. Though requirements vary by jurisdiction, many require aspiring prenatal doctors to complete high school or earn an equivalency diploma, attend college and medical school, and complete a residency program to gain hands-on experience. A fellowship, which is a type of paid specialty training, is also available to some aspiring prenatal doctors.
Many people consider college to be the start of their education to become a prenatal doctor. However, an aspiring prenatal doctor frequently begins preparing for this career while still in high school. You may, for example, take academic classes to help you build a foundation of knowledge useful for your college career in order to gain admission to the college of your choice. All of your classes could be useful, but science classes like chemistry, biology, and physics could be especially beneficial. You can get into college without graduating from high school by taking a diploma equivalency test.
You won’t have to choose a specific major to prepare for medical school when you enroll in college. Almost all medical schools accept applicants from any major. However, you might prefer a science-based major like biology, chemistry, microbiology, or pre-medicine. It is typically important to get good grades in all of your classes, regardless of what major you choose. When deciding whether or not you are a good candidate for medical school, admissions officers may look at your grades, recommendation letters, interests and hobbies, as well as the results of pre-admission testing.
To become a prenatal doctor, you will typically need to spend four years in medical school. The first half of your education will most likely be focused on classroom instruction, while the second half will most likely include clinical work and related classroom instruction. Some of the examinations needed to become a licensed physician can be taken while in medical school.
To become a prenatal doctor, you will typically need to complete additional training after medical school. In order to pursue this career, you will almost certainly need to complete an obstetrics residency. During your residency, you will most likely be required to pass a licensing exam in order to practice medicine. After your residency, you may be able to pursue a fellowship, which is a type of paid specialty training.