Requirements for Education
To become a neurologist, you need to follow several important steps. First, you must earn a bachelor’s degree, usually in biology, chemistry, or neuroscience, while completing pre-med requirements like biology and chemistry courses. Next, you attend medical school for four years, where you study in classrooms for two years and then do clinical rotations for the other two. After medical school, you complete a four-year residency, which includes a one-year internship in internal medicine followed by three years of specialized training in neurology. Finally, you need to pass licensing exams and get board certified to practice. Throughout this journey, strong academic performance, research experience, and good interpersonal skills are essential.
School options for Neurology
- Harvard University
- John Hopkins University
- San Francisco University (UCSF)
- Stanford University
- University of California
These schools are good for neurology because : Harvard University stands out for its prestigious research programs and expert faculty. Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its focus on medical training and innovative research in brain health. Stanford University offers cutting-edge technology and a collaborative environment that fosters new discoveries in neuroscience. The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leader in medical research and provides excellent clinical training. Lastly, the University of California system is known for its strong emphasis on research and diverse opportunities in the field of neurology.
Starting position and pay
In 2026, newly trained neurologists can look forward to starting salaries between about $240,000 and over $350,000 a year. These salaries can vary a lot depending on where they work, their specific area of expertise, and the type of practice ,with those in private practice or neurocritical care often earning more.
How to get from there to your dream job/ position
To achieve your dream job as a neurologist after your first position, it’s important to focus on gaining specialized skills, networking, and shaping your career path. Most neurology residents complete a fellowship to specialize, which is often essential for academic roles or specialized practices. If you start in general neurology, seek opportunities to focus on a sub-specialty that your workplace supports. Additionally, getting board certified in areas like epilepsy or vascular neurology can boost your marketability.