Career roadmap
How to Become a Cardiologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a cardiologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a cardiologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete internal medicine residency, (4) complete cardiology fellowship, (5) pass boards. Most people need about 14+ years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a cardiologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete internal medicine residency
Three years.
Complete cardiology fellowship
Three years.
Pass boards
Practice.
Education and training requirements
Medical school, a three-year internal medicine residency and a cardiology fellowship are required, plus a state license and board certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 14+ years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABIM cardiovascular disease certification: Board certification.
- State medical license: Required.
- Interventional cardiology certification: Subspecialty.
- Echocardiography board: Imaging credential.
Skills to build now
Start with cardiac diagnosis, ekg interpretation, and echocardiography, and practice decisiveness and communication. Learning the cardiologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Internal Medicine Resident: Train.
- Cardiology Fellow: Specialize.
- Cardiologist: Practice.
- Program Director: Lead heart programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Cardiologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a cardiologist?
Usually 14 or more years after high school.
How long does it take to become a cardiologist?
Most people need about 14+ years after high school of training. Medical school, a three-year internal medicine residency and a cardiology fellowship are required, plus a state license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be a cardiologist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for cardiologists?
Common credentials include ABIM cardiovascular disease certification, State medical license, Interventional cardiology certification, and Echocardiography board. Physicians need a state medical license after licensing exams and residency.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1212 (Cardiologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Cardiologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.