FAQ
Medical Scientist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a medical scientist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a medical scientist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about medical scientists
Do medical scientists need an M.D.?
Not always; many have a Ph.D.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster than average growth.
How long is training?
Often 8 or more years after college.
How much does a medical scientist make?
The median annual wage for medical scientists was $103,410 ($49.72 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $64,800 and the highest 10% earned more than $177,780.
How long does it take to become a medical scientist?
Most people need about 5–8 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. or M.D. (or both) is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a medical scientist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education.
Is medical scientist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +12.6% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 10,500 openings each year. Upsides include faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that very long training.
What skills does a medical scientist need?
Key technical skills include research design, lab techniques, clinical trial design, and biostatistics. Employers also value persistence, leadership, and communication.
What certifications are available for medical scientists?
Common credentials include Ph.D. or M.D., GCP training, Human subjects training, and Postdoctoral training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Medical Scientist fit quiz, compare with Biochemist, or explore Medical Scientist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 19-1042 (Medical scientists, except epidemiologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Medical scientists, except epidemiologists (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.