Wants to become an OBGYN doctor

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My second question is my end goal is to become an OBGYN doctor after attending college for my BSN what would I have to do to achieve this accomplishment? I'm unsure of the steps or the degree title in order to make sure I'm attending the correct classes to become an OBGYN doctor. And how long with the school process be from a BSN to an OBGYN?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Nursing is not a stepping stone to becoming a doctor. If your goal is to practice medicine, you're better off changing majors now to save time.

To become an Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OBGYN) after obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you must follow a specific educational and training path. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process:

Complete Your BSN

  • Duration: 4 years
  • Focus. Perform well in your coursework, especially in science and math, and maintain a high GPA.

Fulfill Medical School Prerequisites

Courses. While completing your BSN, take prerequisite courses required for medical school. These often include:

  • General Chemistry with lab
  • Organic Chemistry with lab
  • Biology with lab
  • Physics with lab
  • English
  • Math (Statistics or Calculus)
  • Biochemistry (recommended by many medical schools)

Take the MCAT

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): Prepare for and take the MCAT. This standardized test assesses your knowledge of natural, behavioral, and social sciences and your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Apply to Medical School

  • Application: Apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) for MD programs or the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS) for DO programs.
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Years 1-2: Classroom-based learning covering basic sciences (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, etc.)
  • Years 3-4: Clinical rotations, including a rotation in OBGYN.

Complete a Residency in OBGYN

  • Match process. Apply for residency programs through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Training. Intensive training in obstetrics and gynecology, including hands-on experience in surgery, labor and delivery, prenatal care, and gynecological health.

Obtain Licensure

Exams. Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) for MDs or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) for DOs.

USMLE/COMLEX consists of three parts taken during medical school and residency.

Board Certification

Certification. After completing your residency, you must pass the board certification exams offered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) or the American Osteopathic Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AOBOG).

Total Timeline

  • BSN: 4 years
  • Prerequisites/MCAT Prep: Overlaps with BSN or an additional 1-2 years if prerequisites are taken separately.
  • Medical School: 4 years
  • Residency: 4 years
  • Total: Approximately 12-14 years after high school.

Additional Tips

  • Extracurricular activities. To strengthen your medical school application, engage in healthcare-related volunteer work, shadowing physicians, and clinical experience.
  • Networking. Build relationships with mentors, professors, and healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and write letters of recommendation.
  • Financial planning. Consider the financial aspects, including tuition costs, loans, and scholarships.

Following this path requires dedication and perseverance, but it will lead you to a rewarding career as an OBGYN.

Best wishes in your decision,

Nurse Beth

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