If you want to be a doctor and still be around the most famous people then this is the best doctor to be. Then becoming a dermatologist is the best specialization in the field and is considered the happiest doctor. This Blog will walk you through 3 simple steps on how to become a Dermatologist, as well as educational requirements and salary potential in different countries.
Who is a Dermatologist
A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin, hair, and nail conditions. A dermatologist can diagnose and treat all types of skin conditions. These conditions include, among others, acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
Learn more: Career as an Anthropologist- A Guide to Career Opportunities
How to become a Dermatologist (3-step guide)
Step 1: Stream to select
To become a doctor, you must first choose a science stream that includes biology, physics, and chemistry, and then, after completing your 10+2, you must take an entrance exam for medical colleges such as NEET.
Step 2: Educational Requirements to become a Dermatologist
To become a Dermatologist, you must complete your 12th grade in science with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) and then follow the steps outlined below.
How to become a Dermatologist after 12th in India
- After passing the NEET exam, you can gain admission to medical school to pursue an MBBS degree, which consists of four years of coursework and one year of internship.
- While in an internship, you can study for the NEET PG exam in order to gain admission to a 3-year MD in Dermatology program to become a Dermatologist.
- If you want to become a Plastic Surgeon after MS, you must pursue a super speciality in Dermatology, such as M.Ch (Master of Chirurgiae), which is a 3-year program required to become a Plastic Surgeon.
- Top Colleges for Dermatology in India
College | Location |
AIIMS | Delhi |
Christian Medical College | Vellore |
BMCRI College | Bangalore |
KIMS | Bangalore |
Dr DY Patel Medical College | Pune |
Madras Medical College | Chennai |
Kasturba Medical College | Manipal |
St Johns Medical College | Bangalore |
Armed Forces Medical College | Pune |
Grant Medical College | Mumbai |
Also read: How To Become A Neurologist – Detailed Guide
To become Dermatologist Abroad
- Enrol for MBBS degree a 4-year long curriculum
- Post completion of a year-long internship, you would be required to pursue Dermatology Residency Program which takes 6 to 8 years.
- Get licensed or board certified to practice as a credible doctor in the state.
- Top Colleges for Dermatology abroad
College | Location |
Yale University | US |
Stanford University | US |
Harvard University | US |
Johns Hopkins Medical School | US |
The University of New South Wales | Australia |
University of Zurich | Switzerland |
University of California | US |
University of Toronto | Canada |
King’s College | UK |
Cardiff University | UK |
Step 3: Job Preparation
- Internship
After completing your degree, you can shadow a Dermatologist to gain a better understanding of what it’s like to work as a Dermatologist before deciding on it as your speciality. Fellowships provide another opportunity to gain practical experience while also improving your skills and efficiency.
- Freelance
You can volunteer with non-profit organizations and health care centres to provide free services to the needy. This will allow you to help those in need while also gaining experience and exposure that will help you advance your career.
- Portfolio Creation
Internships and freelance work will undoubtedly distinguish your application. You can also include a cover letter explaining why you wanted to be a doctor and how you have benefited society since becoming one with your application.
6 Skills needed to become a Dermatologist
- Interpersonal Skills
- Problem Solving Skills
- Detail Oriented
- Critical thinking
- Diagnostic Skills
- Manual Dexterity
Salary of a Dermatology
Salary in India
An average salary of a Dermatologist is ₹12 lakhs per annum.
Consider taking a JuniorMBA in Entrepreneurship or Future CEO program to help you if you want to start your own practice.
Salary Abroad
Country | Average Salary |
US | $364,500 |
UK | £93083 |
Canada | $263261 |
Australia | $111,253 |
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Top Recruiters in India
- Cipla Ltd
- Pax Healthcare
- Gleneagles Global Hospitals
- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
- Apollo Hospital
- Medanta- The Medicity
- Lilavati Hospital
- Breach Candy Hospital
- SIMS Hospital
- Kaya Clinic
Top Recruiters Abroad
- Stanford Dermatology Clinic
- NYU’s Langone Medical Center
- Galderma
- Johnson & Johnson
- Amgen
- Ordinary
- Alchemee
- Procter & Gamble
- Alpyn Beauty
- Skinceuticals
A long-term commitment is required to become a dermatologist. After high school, if you are willing to devote 12 years to study, becoming a dermatologist will reward you with high earnings and a good reputation in the doctor world. Best wishes on your path to becoming a dermatologist.
FAQs related to how to become a Dermatologist
Is dermatology hard to study?
Dermatology is one of the most difficult specialities to obtain while pursuing an MD. Dermatology is in high demand due to the highly rewarding and balanced lifestyle it provides to doctors.
Is Neet required for dermatologists?
Yes, as Dermatology is a post-graduate specialization you opt for after completion of your MBBS which requires you to give the Neet examination.
What should I study to become a dermatologist?
Students must first complete an undergraduate MBBS degree before becoming a dermatologist. They can then pursue a PG diploma in dermatology or an MD.
What is the easiest doctor to become?
A physician is the simplest doctor to become because it requires the least amount of education.
Which type of doctor is best for girls?
They can become a dentist, gynac or a dermatologist.
What is the hardest doctor to be?
One of the hardest doctors to become is a neurosurgeon.
What is the richest type of doctor?
The highest-paid doctors in the field are neurosurgeons and thoracic surgeons.
Who are the happiest doctors?
Dermatologists can be considered the happiest doctors.