Urologists

High School

A medical degree is required to be a urologist, so be sure to take a college preparatory program. In addition to courses in English, algebra, and geometry, take biology, chemistry, health, and physics. Courses in communication, history, a foreign language, and psychology can also help you prepare for college, medical school, and an internship and hospital residency.

Postsecondary Training

Students must first earn an M.D. or D.O. degree and become licensed to practice medicine. They then complete a five- or six-year residency in urology, of which the first two years are typically spent in general surgery, followed by three to four years of clinical urology in an approved residency program, with the remaining year spent in general surgery, urology, or other clinical disciplines that are related to urology. The American Urological Association’s Web site, https://www.auanet.org, provides information on residency programs. 

Many urologic residency training programs are six years in length, with the final year spent in either research or additional clinical training, depending on the orientation of the program and the resident's focus.

The vast majority of urologists enter into clinical practice after completing their residency program. However, fellowships exist in various subspecialties, including pediatrics, infertility, sexual dysfunction, oncology, and transplantation.

Other Education or Training

Keeping up with cutting-edge medical research is key to success as a urologist. Professional associations often provide continuing education opportunities. For example, the American Urological Association offers webinars and in-person classes on topics such as advanced robotic urology and hands-on urologic ultrasound. The American Osteopathic Association and the American Medical Association also provide professional development classes.