Physicians diagnose and treat human disease, pain, injury, deformity, and other health conditions. These professionals may choose to practice in a specialized field. For example, they may focus on treating children, women, or elderly people; or on specific diseases or conditions, such as heart disease or cancer; or in other practice areas, such as surgery.
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: variable depending on specialty
Salary range: $77,317-$281,399+
Project growth: faster to much faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Individual and group practices
Hospitals and healthcare organizations
Research and education
Government and consulting
Your Interests and Abilities
Basic and medical sciences
Perform medical procedures
Manual and technical skills
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Attention to detail
Analytical thinking
Communication
Stress tolerance
Education
Complete at least 60 semester hours of college study from a Department-registered program or the equivalent. Most applicants admitted to medical school have at least a bachelor's degree.
AND
Complete a Department-registered Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine licensure program, or the equivalent.
Experience
Complete at least one year of postgraduate hospital training in an accredited residency program approved by an agency recognized by the Department.
Examination
United States Medical Licensing Examination or examination of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners.
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a physician about what they do and how they got started!
