Medical Students FAQ

This section of the American College of Surgeons Web site has been created to provide answers to some of the frequently asked questions posed by medical students who are interested in pursuing a career in surgery. The material that is provided has been gathered for the purpose of giving details about the development of careers in surgery. Included are descriptions of the surgical specialties and the educational requirements for practicing the surgical specialties. In addition, this section also contains information about residency options and selection, board certification, and the career outlook for surgeons.

Preparing for Certification

Learn about the requirements to gain board certification.

Residency Interview Process

Learn more about applying and interviewing for residency programs.

What is the job description for surgeons?

Many surgeons find themselves in a multifaceted career that allows them to put their skills to good use in a combination of workplace settings.

What kinds of loan repayment options are available?

Learn about your options for financing four years of medical school and your residency.

Residency Interview Questions

Preview residency interview questions taken from the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Web site.

Selecting Residency Programs

Review important information about selecting the right residency program for your goals.

Education

What are the surgical specialties?

The American College of Surgeons recognizes 14 surgical specialties.

Years of Postgraduate Training

Once medical school has been successfully completed, residency begins.

Why become a surgeon?

Read quotes from prominent career surgeons about their experiences in medicine.

What is the job outlook for surgeons?

Review data showing the projected job outlook for surgeons by specialty and sex.