How long does it take to become a pediatrician?

The typical educational and training process to become a pediatrician lasts 11 years. This period includes four years for an undergraduate degree, four years for a medical school degree and three years of pediatric residency training.

Those people who want to specialize in a sub-area of pediatrics may have an additional two or three years in fellowship training. Some residency programs allow a person to combine the pediatrics and sub-specialty training, which can reduce the total in-residence time frame. Though aspiring pediatricians may earn various undergraduate degrees, science is a common field of study. Many med schools require certain science courses for entry. Medical school includes two years of class study and two years of clinical work.