It takes a lot of dedication and many years of academic study to become a sports medicine doctor. But if you have always wanted to become a doctor and you love sports, this is definitely career for you. It will take some time but your career will be rewarding to you personally as well as financially. There are not many positions in the health care industry that do not ensure a solid yearly salary, but your duties as a sports medicine doctor will let you write your own ticket.
Working for a hospital or a clinic pays well but if you are the designated sports medicine doctor for a major sports organization, you could be earning a salary from $140,000 to $300,000 per year.If you are ready to take the plunge, here are the steps you need to become a sports medicine doctor.
Here are the 8 Steps it will take to become a sports medicine doctor
- Get your Bachelor’s Degree
The first thing you need is a bachelor’s degree. You may want to get the upper edge by taking part in a pre-med program.
- Take (and pass) the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Once you receive your bachelor’s degree you need to take the MCAT so that you can apply to medical school. Make sure that you check out which medical school you wish to attend so that once you pass the test you will be ready to get started.
- Sign up for 4 Years of Medical School
Hopefully you have found a medical school that has a sports medical program. Make sure that you keep your grades up while in med school. A high GPA will pay off in the long run.
- Take the United States Medical Licensing Exam
This is the exam that you must take upon graduating from medical school. You will not be able to practice as a doctor without passing the exam and earning your license.
- Complete a 2-year residency
Try to find a place where you can conduct your residency and take care of athletes or at least patients who are suffering from sports injuries.
- Participate in a 2-Year Medical Fellowship
This extended form of training helps give you the hands-on training you need so you will be prepared to act as a sports medicine doctor without supervision.
- Earn the Certificate of Added Qualifications in Sports Medicine
This certificate will prove your expertise in the field of sports medicine. The certificate is valid for a period of 10 years.
- Sign on with a hospital or professional sports organization
Now is the time to put all of your schooling to good use and get the job of your dreams. You can start at a hospital or clinic or go right to a college or professional sports organization as their designated physician. You have put in the time to learn how to become a sports medicine doctor, now it’s time to put your knowledge to work.
