how many years is it? what do you need to do first? every information please on persuing a career in dermatologist.... In the United States, dermatologists like any other MD need to first complete college, then 4 years of medical school. After medical school will be a 1-year internship in either medicine or surgery and then 3 more years of residency specifically for dermatology training. After completion of residency you are eligible for board certification. So it takes 8 years of medical school/training after college to become a functioning independent dermatologist. | 