A pediatrician needs an undergraduate degree and a Doctor of Medicine degree. Though aspiring pediatricians have several options for their bachelor’s, many complete science-based or pre-med undergraduate programs. A medical degree typically requires another four years after the completion of the bachelor’s degree program in the USA. Like other physicians and surgeons, aspiring pediatricians must take additional steps beyond earning degrees to gain licensure. The first is a pediatric internship that lasts one year. A student can intern at a hospital or medical practice that specializes in pediatrics. After the internship, the pediatrician must then complete two years of residency before becoming a fully licensed physician.