However, the payout is totally worth it. It takes 12 to 14 years to become a dermatologist. How to become a dermatologist Enroll in university and complete an honours undergraduate program that provides a strong pre-medical education. If you earn a liberal arts degree, be sure to take courses in physics, biology, and chemistry. Three years of residency, working alongside experienced doctors and completing 12,000 to 16,000 hours of treating patients. The 12-year process of becoming a dermatologist requires a significant commitment of the student's physical, mental, emotional and financial resources. It's a good idea to decide early if dermatology is the right specialty for you. Similar to physicians, dermatologists must first complete their medical training at a nationally accredited program and enroll into a residency program. Usually, it takes about 12 years for a student to fully complete and acquire a dermatology degree. A year-long internship. You first need to earn a bachelor’s degree and a medical degree, which should take about eight years. These requirements include four years in a bachelor's degree program, four years of medical school and four years in a residency. There is no “shortest track” either. After factoring in educational and residency requirements, it will take the average person around 12 years to become a dermatologist. Since becoming a dermatologist is becoming a doctor, it does take quite a while to actually become one. Areas of specialization in the field of dermatology include dermatopathology, pediatric dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. Work experience. This is followed by a one-year internship and a three-year residency program. A lot of people want to be in this field, so you need to stand out. Dermatologists work in private practice, clinics and at hospitals. Dermatology is a great specialty for several reasons. While you do not need to be a pre-medicine or science major, these programs are good preparation. To become a dermatologist, you have to complete 12 years of post-secondary education and training. It depends on what country you’re in. It's only natural to wonder how large a reward waits at the end of this long road. How long does it take to become a dermatologist? The “track” is to go to medical school. After successfully completing a four-year program and passing the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Some dermatologists will then pursue additional advanced training in particular areas, known as fellowship training. The path to becoming a board-certified dermatologist may take 12 years or longer. Four years of medical school to become a medical doctor. How long does it take to become a dermatologist? How to Become a Dermatologist: A Step by Step Guide As per market trends, the average yearly salary of a cosmetic dermatologist ranges from $200,000 to $300,000, depending upon location, experience, and organization. Let’s have a look at what is needed to be done to become a cosmetic dermatologist. application to medical school can be made. But some schools may offer an accelerated program which may shorten the duration of the program to 10 years.