How to Become an Immunologist: Career Path, Training, and Opportunities

Are you curious about a career in immunology? This specialty blends patient care, research, and lab work to address conditions such as allergies, asthma, immune deficiencies, and autoimmune disorders. With over 50 million Americans affected by allergies each year, the demand for immunology expertise continues to rise. While it may not be the most popular specialty, immunology offers job security, opportunities for teaching, and the chance to work at the cutting edge of medical science.

This guide breaks down what it takes to become an immunologist, including education, training, career outlook, and salary potential.

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What Does an Immunologist Do?

The daily work of an immunologist can vary widely depending on the setting. A typical day might involve:

• Clinical care — seeing new and follow-up patients in allergy and immunology clinics.
• Laboratory work — performing and interpreting immunoassays such as flow cytometry, ELISAs, and electrophoresis.
• Collaboration — working with other specialists, scientists, and researchers on patient cases and new therapies.
• Teaching — helping patients understand chronic conditions and guiding medical trainees.

Many physicians are drawn to immunology because it balances hands-on patient care with research and teaching opportunities.

Benefits of Choosing Immunology

• Multidisciplinary environment: 

Immunologists often work closely with other clinicians and biomedical scientists.

• Deeper patient relationships: 

Compared to some specialties, immunologists typically have more time for individualized patient care.

• Strong research connection: 

Clinical immunology bridges basic science and clinical practice, offering room for academic exploration.

• Teaching opportunities: 

A significant part of the role involves educating patients and mentoring trainees.

If you value variety, collaboration, and long-term patient relationships, immunology could be a rewarding path.

Immunologist Salary

According to Salary.com, immunologists in the U.S. earn an average salary of $276,200, with ranges typically falling between $223,000 and $367,000 depending on experience, institution, and location.

This puts immunology above average for physician compensation, with significant growth potential in academic and clinical roles.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Immunologist?

Becoming an immunologist requires 9–10 years of education and training beyond your bachelor’s degree. The path looks like this:

• 4 years — Bachelor’s degree (with pre-med prerequisites)
• 4 years — Medical school (MD or DO)
• 3–4 years — Residency in internal medicine or pediatrics
• 2 years — Fellowship in allergy and immunology

After fellowship, physicians must complete board certification and state licensure before practicing independently.

Step-by-Step Path to Becoming an Immunologist

Step 1: Explore Your Interest in Immunology

Shadow specialists, volunteer in clinical settings, and gain healthcare experience to confirm your interest. Programs like Go Elective’s pre-med internships in Kenya and Tanzania provide real-world exposure to immune-related conditions and patient care.

Step 2: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

Take the core medical school prerequisites: biology, chemistry, physics, math, and English. Plan ahead to meet each school’s requirements and prepare for the MCAT.

Step 3: Take the MCAT

The MCAT is required for nearly all U.S. medical schools. Competitive applicants often aim for scores above 510 to strengthen their chances.

Step 4: Apply to Medical School

Submit the AMCAS application along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and interviews.

Step 5: Earn Your MD or DO

Spend four years in medical school, including both classroom learning and clinical rotations. Complete Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE during this period.

Step 6: Enter a Residency Program

Choose either internal medicine (3 years) or pediatrics (4 years) as your residency. Both are acceptable entry points into an immunology fellowship.

Step 7: Gain Board Certification

At the end of residency, pass exams from either the American Board of Pediatrics or the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Step 8: Complete a Fellowship in Allergy & Immunology

This 2-year fellowship sharpens your expertise through intensive clinical training and research. After completion, you’ll take the board exam from the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI).

Step 9: Obtain Licensure

Apply for medical licensure in the state(s) where you plan to practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

#1. Is immunology a good career?

Yes. Immunology offers job stability, competitive pay, and opportunities in both clinical and academic medicine.

#2. Are immunologists doctors?

Yes. Clinical immunologists are physicians who complete medical school, residency, and fellowship training.

#3. Are immunologists in demand?

Yes. The U.S. faces a shortage of specialists in this field, meaning strong job opportunities for new graduates.

#4. Can you become an immunologist with a PhD?

Yes. A PhD in immunology can lead to careers in research, academia, and government agencies, though clinical practice requires an MD or DO.

Final Thoughts

A career in immunology requires dedication and years of training, but it offers the chance to combine science, patient care, and teaching in a meaningful way. If you’re preparing for this journey, start early by gaining healthcare exposure and shadowing opportunities.

Programs like Go Elective’s medical internships abroad give students hands-on experience with diverse patient cases in East Africa, helping future doctors build strong applications and confirm their passion for specialties like immunology.

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Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 12, 2025