Endocrinologists

High School

You can prepare for a career in endocrinology by taking courses in laboratory sciences such as biology and chemistry. Courses in algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and computer science will also be crucial for future laboratory work. English and speech classes will foster good communication skills, and courses in art and music will help broaden your understanding of the therapeutic nature of creative work.

Postsecondary Training

Endocrinologists must complete a bachelor's degree, usually in biology, chemistry, or a premed program. They then must earn a medical (M.D. or D.O.) degree, which requires four years of medical school. For the first two years students attend lectures and classes and spend time in laboratories. They learn to take patient histories, perform routine physical examinations, and recognize symptoms. In the third and fourth years, they are involved in more practical studies. They work in clinics and hospitals supervised by residents and physicians and learn acute, chronic, preventive, and rehabilitative care. They go through what are known as rotations, or brief periods of study in a particular area, such as internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery. Then they must complete a minimum of four years in residency.

After completing a residency in internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, or pediatrics, a specialist in endocrinology must pursue a specialized internship or fellowship in the field, usually lasting an additional three to four years.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education opportunities are provided by many national and state organizations, including the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American Association of Endocrine Surgeons, and the Endocrine Society. Contact these organizations for more information.