How to Become a Doctor (Physician)
Doctors diagnose illness, prescribe treatment, and care for patients across all stages of life. Medicine is one of the longest qualification pathways — typically 10–14 years — but remains one of the most respected and well-paid professions globally.
Your Step-by-Step Roadmap
Medical Degree (MBChB/MBBS)
- Complete A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics (AAA typical requirement)
- Pass the UCAT or BMAT entry test required by most UK medical schools
- Gain relevant work experience: hospital volunteering, shadowing a GP, care homes
- Study a 5-year MBChB or MBBS degree at a GMC-accredited medical school
- Complete pre-clinical years (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry)
- Complete clinical years (rotations in medicine, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, GP)
Foundation Programme
- Apply to the UK Foundation Programme (F1 and F2 years)
- Rotate across 6 different medical placements over 2 years
- Achieve provisional GMC registration (F1) then full registration (F2)
- Develop competencies in acute medicine, surgery, and community care
- Choose a specialty direction by the end of F2
Specialty Training (Core + Higher)
- Apply to Core Medical Training (CMT) or Core Surgical Training (CST) — 2–3 years
- Pass MRCP (Member of Royal College of Physicians) or equivalent exam
- Apply for Higher Specialty Training (ST3+) in your chosen specialty
- Complete 4–7 years of specialty registrar training
- Build a portfolio of cases, audits, research, and leadership activity
Consultant / GP Qualification
- Pass the Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in your specialty
- Join the GMC Specialist Register
- Apply for Consultant or GP Principal posts
- Develop sub-specialty expertise, research, and NHS leadership
- Consider private practice, academic medicine, or international roles
Key Qualifications & Certifications
Natural Gifts for this Career
People who thrive as a Doctor (Physician) often have these gifts.
Career Outlook
Salary Range
£32,000 (F1) – £120,000+ (Consultant, UK NHS)
Job Demand
Very High — NHS and global healthcare face sustained doctor shortages
Read the Full Doctor (Physician) Career Profile
Skills, tasks, RIASEC alignment, AI outlook, entry paths, and more — in the Career Atlas.
More Career Roadmaps
Are you built to be a Doctor (Physician)?
Take the Penagix Growth Journey assessment to discover your top 6 natural gifts and see if the Doctor (Physician) career truly matches your personality and purpose.