Posterous theme by Cory Watilo

Week 7: Are there any tests/ licensing/ boards etc. that you must take in order to work in your field?

YES. There are a bunch of tests and board certifications in order to work in the field of Cardiology. Probably the most significant test would be the MCAT. The MCAT is an exam that consists of physics, biology, and chemistry taken during undergrad. The scores you receive in this exam greatly affect the chances of getting into a medical school. It's basically the SAT for pre-med students! MCAT scores range from 3 to 45. The average MCAT that most colleges accept is within the high twenties and low thirties.Of course if your GPA isn't strong a higher MCAT score would be ideal. And if you have a strong GPA then an excellent MCAT isn't necessary, but is always a major plus. In addition to the MCATs you must also take a board of certification exam in the desired state that you would like to practice medicine. Lastly, you must renew your license to practice medicine once every ten years. This exam is called the MKSAT. My father recently took his and I am really dreading doing the same thing in the future. Failure to renew your license is considered a crime if you practice with an expired license in this field. I guess I'll be taking exams until I retire then...