Becoming a doctor is certainly no easy task. For generations, a physician has been regarded by many as one of the hardest professions. Not only is the work itself demanding and challenging, but one must go through several years of schooling before they can become a doctor. To become a doctor in New York city, all one must do is go through the normal steps to become a doctor (college, medical school, residency, licensure) and then apply to work at a NYC hospital or open their own private practice in NY.

Study math, biology, chemistry, and other science courses in high schools. Knowledge in these subjects will be needed in college and medical school.

Obtain a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in one of the primary scientific fields such as chemistry or biology. Anyone that plans on going to medical school should take courses in biology and chemistry no matter which major they choose.

Go to medical school. Medical school is attended after the student obtains their undergraduate degree. Medical school typically takes four years to complete. The first two years consist of studying anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical law, and pharmacology in both the classroom and the laboratory. The second two years consist of performing clinical rotations, or clerkships, in different medical departments, to help the student determine which area they would like to specialize in.

Enter a residency program. A residency is a paid-training job for students that have completed medical school. During your residency you will get hands on experience working with patients and performing hospital duties under the supervision and guidance of a senior physician. Doctors specializing in gastroenterology, child psychiatry, oncology, or other specialty will also need to do a one to three year fellowship (internship) after they finish their residency.

Pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam. Every doctor must pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam to be licensed to work as a doctor in New York, or any other state for that matter.

Apply for a medical license in New York to work at NYC hospitals or open your own private practice.