Doctor of medicine

Doctor of Medicine (MD, M.D.) is a professional degree for physicians and surgeons. The degree is granted by medical schools. It is a requirement in many countries to become a physician or a surgeon.

History

The MD degree originated in the 18th century medical schools of Scotland. The degree was introduced in the USA by the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1767.

Education and training

In most countries, the MD degree is a postgraduate degree that requires a previous undergraduate degree. The first two years of the MD program are typically spent in the classroom, with the final two years in clinical rotations.

In the United States, the MD degree is a professional degree that is awarded after four years of medical school. The curriculum for the MD degree includes two years of basic science courses, followed by two years of clinical rotations.

Licensing and board certification

After earning an MD degree, physicians must pass a licensing examination to practice medicine. In the United States, this examination is the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).

Physicians may also choose to become board certified in a specialty. Board certification is a voluntary process that demonstrates a physician's expertise in a particular specialty or subspecialty of medical practice.

See also

• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
• Medical education
• Medical school
• Physician
• Surgeon

References

Doctor of medicine Resources
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