Is 45 too old to begin school (college) to become a doctor?

Answer 1

Two answers:
Idealistically - No, never. Depending on the kind of doctor you want to be, it will take between 6 and 10 years to become a doctor provided you can start right in medical school. If you have to go back for undergraduate stuff you'll add another 2 to 4 and if you go for a complex specialty you could add another couple of years as well. So, provided you could get accepted (I can't speak to medical schools and their selection of those older) you'd be in your early to mid 50's when you graduate.

Practically - It may be very hard to get accepted into a medical school at 45 as it is very competitive and your age may play against you (regardless of age discrimination issues). The committment to get through the program is a lot less about your knowledge as it is your endurance and ability to put up with the BS and the riduculous hours to survive. At 45, you're going to struggle more than anyone with the hours and stress and strain. I'm hoping you have a strong regimine for exercise, diet, and sleep; you'll need it. Finally, provided you survive all that and become a doctor, you'll probably do fine as your wisdom, age, etc may work in your favor.

So, whatever you decide, good luck with it and recognize the practical issues may be your biggest block.

Answer 2

I knew someone that did it. Her mom was my babysitter growing up, I'm 39, so she is about 55 now? She had been a schoolteacher and at 45, decided to do something else. I say go for it. I went back to school at 35 to change careers.

Answer 3

no- I have seen people do it, as well as become lawyers, teachers, etc. It just depends on the person if they are successful. Residency can be quite exhausting, with many long hours and hard work. BNut if you are dedicated enough, and have good physical health and stamina, there's nothing to hold someone 45 back =)

Answer 4

I agree with techbankguy, but i'd like to add that 45 is not too old especially if you were in a related field such as pharamacy, nursing, etc. Good luck.

Answer 5

Go for it. I'm thinking the same....more than ever the medical field needs quality doctors.

Answer 6

45 is not too old especially if you want it enough.you would spend at least 7yrs in training.but know it would be stressful.which means you have too want it enough

Answer 7

Not at all drive and go forward un can do anything you want be all u can be the only way its too late is when we 6ft under best wishes

Answer 8

no. as long as you have the will do do it.

hey. here in the philippines, there's this one guy in the news. he became a lawyer after all his kids finish law school and are now practicing lawyers.

if you really want it, then why not.

Answer 9

Why not???