How to Get a Graduate Degree in Neurology
A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of nervous system diseases and disorders such as epilepsy, spinal cord injuries, Alzheimer's disease, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease and head injuries. If you have decided to pursue this career, keep in mind that becoming a neurologist involves many years of rigorous medical education and training.
- Complete your undergraduate degree program at an accredited college or university. Your bachelor's degree can be in any subject but you need to take all the required premed courses. Strive to get the best grades possible so you won't find it difficult getting accepted into medical schools. Also take Medical School Admission Test (MCAT) and pass it with a high score.
- Apply for admission into medical schools. Submit your application for admission along with all the required documents including your college transcripts, MCAT score and letters of recommendation. Medical school application process is competitive, so it is a good idea to apply to several schools to increase your chances of getting accepted.
- Complete medical school. Medical school takes about four years to finish. The first two years is spent studying the basic medical sciences and the last two years is spent in clinical rotations, and that's when you get exposed to the different areas of specialization.
- Enter into a residency program. Complete a one-year residency training in Internal Medicine. During this time, you will examine and treat patients under the supervision of a board certified doctor.
- Complete a medical residency in neurology. You will need to finish a three-year residency program in Neurology, take the required examinations and be licensed to practice as a neurologist.