Education · 1 of 4

The path

You become an internal medicine doctor first, then an infection specialist.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Top marks in biology, chemistry, math and English. You need a very high average for a science undergrad.

2. 2

   Bachelor's degree

   3 to 4 years

   Any major works, but microbiology is a natural fit. Keep a GPA (grade point average) above 3.8, volunteer, do research. Write the MCAT (medical school admission test).

3. 3

   Medical school, the MD (doctor of medicine)

   3 to 4 years

   Acceptance rates are 5% to 15%. Classes, then clinical rotations.

4. 4

   Internal medicine residency

   3 years

   Matched through CaRMS (the residency matching service). Hospital wards, the ICU (intensive care unit) and clinics. In year 3 you apply to the subspecialty match.

5. 5

   Infectious diseases residency, then certification

   2 years

   Hospital consults, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and tuberculosis clinics, the microbiology lab, infection control and antibiotic stewardship. Pass the Royal College exams to become FRCPC (Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada) and register with your provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons.