Can a registered nurse (RN) become a Doctor (MD)?
Asked by einherjar89
I am currently looking to begin a career in the medical field (US) and im looking at different options. I would like to become a MD but the time and work is alot and may not be obtainable. If i become a RN, can i still be a MD? Will it be faster compared to starting over in college, then med school and residency?

Best Answer:
I have known several RNs who became physicians both MD and DO. If you think this might be your goal, then take as much of the medical school prerequisite courses as possible, in preparation for the RN when getting your bachelor's degree. By the same token I have known PAs who became physicians, and also high school biology teachers. Often one or 2 additional courses need to be taken, in addition to the MCAT for admission to medical school. There was once a medical school in this area that gave preference to RNs and PAs for admission, but they are now under a new Board of Regents so the admission criteria may have changed.

A plumber can become an MD if they go through medical school. If you get a bachelors degree to be an RN, you will then have 4 years of med school and then probably 3-5 years of residency.
Answered by RadTech

Anyone can become a MD, you just have to go to Med School. Being an RN will not be an expressway to become a MD, but it may make everything else earier since you are familiar with the terminology.
Answered by Ryan M

I don't know if it's faster, doubt it, but it might make it easier. It's clearly legal... as long as you aren't trying to do it in a country like Iran.
Answered by kckid2

Becoming an RN first will not buy you any short cut to a MD--medical school does not grant any credit for any other career. You would still need to do the pre-med requirements; take the MCATS and go to med school, do a residency etc. It would give you medical experience however, but no faster through time.
Answered by Diane A

If you really want to be a nurse then you should look into nurse practitioner programs. You can get your RN and go on for your masters degree while working as a nurse. Nurse practitioners can assess patients and prescribe medications. You can work in lots of specialties and make a good amount of money. Good Luck.
Answered by bijouv