What it is
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) is the primary professional degree for physicians. After four years of medical school, graduates enter a residency (and often a fellowship) to train in a specialty before independent, licensed practice.
The degrees & designations
How long it takes
Four years of medical school, then a residency of 3–7 years (plus optional fellowship) to specialize.
What you study
Two pre-clinical years of science then two clinical clerkship years, with the USMLE licensing exams; specialization happens in residency.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree and prerequisites, plus the field's admission test; admission is typically very competitive.
Cost & funding
Professional degrees are among the most expensive, and debt can be significant; loans, scholarships, and service-based repayment are common.
Where it leads
Leads to licensed physician practice across specialties, entered through residency and (optionally) fellowship.
How it compares
Alongside the DO, one of the two US physician degrees; both lead to licensure and residency.
Is it right for you?
Fits those pursuing medicine as physicians.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring:
Key facts
- WhatThe physician professional degree
- Length4 yrs med school + residency
- EntryBachelor's + prerequisites + MCAT
- ExamsUSMLE
- NextResidency & fellowship
Where to learn more
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