Education
In order to become an orthopedic surgeon, you will have to get at least a bachelor's degree in a scientific field with labs. Some of the classes you will need to take include biology, college math, chemistry and physiology. It takes four years to get a bachelor's degree. You will also have to complete an additional two years of clinical training and two years of pre-clinical training. When you get into medical school, you will be there for four years as well.
Training
Once you graduate from medical school, you will have to complete an orthopedic surgery residency. There are about 650 of them that you can choose from. There aren't always a lot of spots open, so there will be a lot of competition getting into a residency. It takes four years to complete once you get in. It is sometimes mandatory to complete a residency in pediatrics, surgery, sports or medicine before getting into the field of orthopedic surgery. After the residencies, a fellowship training can be done for those that are looking to have neck and hand surgery as their specialty.
Certificate
Before you're able to work as an orthopedic surgeon, you will have to obtain a certificate. You will have to complete a board exam while you're in medical school and during your residency. Then you will have to take another board exam that is offered through the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. You will also have to complete two years of training and a residency.
