What degree is needed to become a surgeon for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Surgeons are among the most respected medical occupations around. They save lives and improve health and well-being by performing operations to treat diseases, injuries, and deformities. As such, they are highly valued professionals with the salaries that come with it. In 2022, the average yearly salary of surgeons was $337,980, which was significantly higher than that of physicians at $251,990 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). So, the occupation can be rewarding on both the professional and financial fronts.

If you are interested in becoming a surgeon and are wondering, “What degree is needed to become a surgeon for 2025?" then this article is for you. There are multiple ways of becoming one, and you can definitely become a surgeon with different degrees such as a typical M.D. or a doctorate in surgery.  With input from our Research. com experts, we will not only answer the question of what degree do surgeons need but also provide a brief step-by-step account of how to become one.  This way, you will have a clearer view of your path ahead.

What degree is needed to become a surgeon Table of Contents

1. What does a surgeon do?
2. What degree is needed to become a surgeon for 2025?
3. How to Become a Surgeon
4. Job Outlook for Surgeons
5. How can aspiring surgeons manage financial challenges during training?
6. What certifications and professional skills are essential for success as a surgeon?
7. Surgeon Salary in the United States
8. How can you develop resilience and maintain mental well-being as a surgeon?
9. Is an advanced academic qualification essential for surgical advancement?
10. What are the emerging trends and innovations in surgical techniques and technology that I should know as an aspiring surgeon?
11. Challenges and Real-Life Insights from Surgeons
12. What role does residency program selection play in your surgical career success?
13. What alternative options exist for completing prerequisite coursework?

In 2022, there were about 58,330 surgeons working in the United States (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). They are quite rare, considering there are only 0.175 per thousand in the country. Given the importance and sensitivity of the job, they are compensated more per year than other occupations such as physicians, chief executives, and legislators. Since 2020, more than 60% earn more than $200,000 a year.

While this looks attractive, surgeons do face dangers and challenges. As an aspiring surgeon, you should be well aware of these. Also, these challenges are on top of being frequently in direct contact with life-and-death situations.  Some challenges include long hours, high-pressure work, and the risk of burnout. They also have to deal with high education costs and challenging patients.

Moreover, as surgery is a physically-demanding job, surgeons also face ergonomic challenges. Research has suggested that as many as seven in 10 surgeons in all specialties experience musculoskeletal injuries or pain. Women surgeons seem to be more susceptible, given the tools and equipment are designed for people with more muscle mass, providing them unique challenges. So, while being a surgeon can be fulfilling and lucrative, it presents distinctive issues.

What does a surgeon do?

A surgeon is a medical professional who specializes in performing surgical procedures to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities in patients. They have a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, and medical techniques to provide surgical interventions to help improve their patient’s health and quality of life. Surgeons use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their work, including scalpels, forceps, retractors, and specialized robotic devices. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices and may specialize in specific areas of the body or types of surgeries.

Surgeons are important because they can save lives, restore functions, and prevent complications from various medical conditions. Some of the benefits of surgery include:

1. Removing tumors or abnormal growths that may be cancerous or harmful
2. Repairing damaged organs or tissues that may cause pain or disability
3. Reconstructing or enhancing the appearance of body parts that may be affected by trauma, disease, or congenital defects
4. Transplanting organs or tissues from donors to recipients who need them
5. Improving blood flow or nerve function by bypassing or reconnecting blocked or severed vessels or nerves
6. Inserting devices or implants that can help regulate bodily functions or support structures

Surgeons also play a vital role in advancing medical knowledge and innovation by conducting research, developing new techniques, and teaching future generations of surgeons. They must keep up with the latest developments in their field and follow ethical standards and guidelines to ensure patient safety and quality of care.

What degree is needed to become a surgeon for 2025?

If you are interested in becoming a surgeon in the U.S., you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree and a medical degree. A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to finish. While there are no specific undergraduate majors for surgeons and there are no specific surgeon majors at all, medical schools often have prerequisite coursework requirements in subjects related to medicine. What subjects are needed to become a surgeon or a physician? The common prerequisite coursework requirements from medical schools are in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. So, make sure you stack up on these courses and also consult academic advisors to know which ones and how many you need to take.

If you are asking, “What major should I choose to be a surgeon?" common ones include nursing, biology, human physiology, health sciences, biomedical sciences, and chemistry, among others. These majors will help you prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), which is required for applying to medical school.

While there is no specific surgical degree or a surgeon’s degree, a general medical degree is all you need to practice medicine. A medical degree can be either a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). Both closely related types of doctor’s degrees take four years to complete and involve two years of classroom learning and two years of clinical training.  During medical school, you will learn about the principles and techniques of surgery, as well as other medical specialties. Graduates of either medical degree can be licensed as a physician or a surgeon. Hence, these are the only degrees needed to be a surgeon.

After graduating from medical school, you will need to complete a residency program in surgery, which can last from three to seven years depending on the subspecialty. During residency, you will work under the supervision of experienced surgeons and gain hands-on experience in performing surgical procedures. You will also need to pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) to obtain your license to practice.

Is there such a thing as a doctorate in surgery?

While you do not need a doctorate in surgery to be a surgeon, you can readily find doctorate in surgery programs once you need one. In this context, a “doctorate" typically refers to an advanced research degree, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) rather than a professional medical degree. These advanced degrees are not specifically focused on surgical practice; instead, they emphasize research, scholarly work, and academic pursuits within the field of surgery.

A doctorate in surgery, such as a Ph.D. or DMSc in Surgery, involves in-depth research and the completion of a doctoral dissertation or thesis in a specific area of surgical study. A doctorate in surgery is typically pursued by individuals who have already obtained a medical degree, such as an M.D. or D.O., and have a strong interest in pursuing research or academic careers within the field of surgery.

These doctorate in surgery programs often provide opportunities to conduct original research, contribute to the advancement of surgical knowledge, and potentially specialize in a particular aspect of surgical practice or innovation. Graduates with a doctorate in surgery can go on to work in academic institutions, research organizations, or other settings where their expertise in surgical research and scholarship is valued. It’s important to note that the availability and specific structure of doctorate in surgery programs may vary between institutions and countries. If you are considering pursuing a doctorate in surgery, it is recommended to research specific programs of interest to understand their requirements, focus areas, and career outcomes. It is good to note, however, that most doctorate surgery programs are offered in the United Kingdom. See the examples below.

Examples of Doctorate in Surgery Programs

1. Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in Surgery. This doctorate in surgery program is designed for students who want to pursue a career as a surgeon in various fields of medicine. It involves rigorous training in clinical skills, research methods, and ethical principles.
2. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Surgery. This program is for students who want to conduct original research in surgery and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice. It requires a dissertation based on independent and original research in a specific area of surgery.
3. Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) in Surgery. This program is for students who have already completed a Ph.D. in surgery and want to further their expertise and leadership in the field. It involves advanced coursework, research projects, and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

How to Become a Surgeon

Becoming a surgeon is a challenging but rewarding career path that requires years of education, training, and dedication. Here are the main steps to follow if you want to pursue this profession:

1. Bachelor’s degree. Complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics. You will need to take courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and other subjects that prepare you for medical school.
2. MCAT. Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply to medical schools that offer programs in surgery. You will need to have a high GPA, strong MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation to be competitive.
3. Medical school. Complete four years of medical school and earn your M.D. or D.O. degree. The first two years of medical school consist of basic science courses and laboratory work, while the last two years involve clinical rotations in various specialties, such as surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, and psychiatry. You will also take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX), depending on your degree type, to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills.
4. Residency. Apply for a general surgery residency program and complete five years of training. During your residency, you will work under the supervision of experienced surgeons and learn how to perform various surgical procedures, such as appendectomy, hernia repair, gallbladder removal, and breast biopsy. You will also rotate through different subspecialties of surgery, such as vascular surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, neurosurgery, and plastic surgery.
5. Board certification. While an M.D. is the only required degree to be a surgeon, one must obtain board certification in a specialty by passing an exam administered by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) exam or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS) exam, depending on the degree type. Here, one must demonstrate knowledge and skills in their field and adhere to ethical standards.
6. Maintaining your license and certification. Maintain your certification and license by completing continuing education courses and renewing your credentials every few years. You will also need to keep up with the latest developments and innovations in your field and follow the best practices and guidelines for patient care. There are many institutions that offer continuing medical education (CME) credits applicable to renew your license. They range from health informatics programs to specific CME certificates like the Innovations in Teamwork for Health Care from Harvard. Doctors may also take healthcare management courses from medical office certificate programs.
7. Pursue subspecialty (optional). Pursue further training in a surgical subspecialty if desired. You can complete a fellowship program in a specific area of surgery that interests you, such as colorectal surgery, surgical oncology, trauma surgery, or pediatric surgery. A fellowship program typically lasts one to three years and provides you with advanced skills and knowledge in your chosen field. You will also need to pass another board exam to become certified in your subspecialty.

How long does it take to become a surgeon?

Becoming a surgeon in the United States is a long and challenging process that requires dedication, discipline, and passion. Generally, it takes about 10 to 14 years to complete the necessary education, residency programs, license, and exams to become a qualified surgeon.

Job Outlook for Surgeons

The demand for surgeons in the U.S. is expected to grow by 3% from 2021 to 2031, slower than the average for all occupations, especially compared to the respiratory therapy job outlook at 14% (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). This looks like it is not going to help the shortage of surgeons in the U.S. at all. In 2022, there were only 0.394 surgeon jobs for every thousand. And by 2031, experts predict that there will only be 2,000 additional surgeon jobs, increasing the workforce from 58,330 to 60,330.

This is, however, for all types of surgeons. Among surgical specialty areas, the job outlook for ophthalmologists is the highest at 6%, which is as fast as the average. This translates numerically to 800 jobs by 2031. During the same time period, the projected job growth for orthopedic surgeons is slower than average at 3%, while it is 2% for pediatric surgeons. Additional orthopedic surgeon jobs during the period are expected to reach just 400 and none for pediatric surgeons. In 2022, there were only 12,580 jobs for the former and 19,060 for the latter across the country.

Dealing with the Shortage

The surgical workforce is unevenly distributed across the country, with widespread and critical shortages of general surgeons, particularly in rural areas. This can lead to delays in care, suboptimal outcomes, and hospital closures. Moreover, the demand for healthcare workers extends beyond surgeons and is evident in the job outlook for occupational therapists, which is projected to grow by 14% in the next 10 years (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). To address this problem, more accurate and actionable workforce data are necessary to determine what constitutes a surgical shortage area and where these areas exist. Congress has made legislative moves to produce a multi-pronged effort to counteract workforce shortages via incentives, data-driven research, and additional funding. To this day, however, the country is looking at an impending shortage of 15,800 to 30,200 surgeons by 2034.

How can aspiring surgeons manage financial challenges during training?

Pursuing a surgical career requires strategic financial planning throughout extensive education and residency. Explore diverse scholarship opportunities, federal loan programs, and grant options specifically tailored for medical trainees. Consider alternative enrollment pathways and flexible options such as online colleges with no application fee to reduce upfront costs. Evaluate comprehensive financial aid packages, repayment plans, and potential loan forgiveness programs to alleviate educational debt while maintaining access to quality training.

What certifications and professional skills are essential for success as a surgeon?

Advanced proficiency in technical procedures is reinforced by obtaining specialty board certifications—such as Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and certifications specific to surgical subspecialties—which validate clinical competence and commitment to professional standards. Surgeons should pursue continuous professional development opportunities that focus on emerging clinical methodologies, quality improvement, and leadership skills to effectively navigate evolving regulatory and patient safety requirements. Evaluating diverse educational pathways, including comparisons between traditional routes and nontraditional approaches (for example, associate degree vs bachelor degree which is better), can inform decisions about foundational education that supports long-term career flexibility. Embracing a structured regimen of training, mentorship, and ongoing skills enhancement is crucial for maintaining excellence in a field driven by both innovation and rigorous clinical safeguards.

Surgeon Salary in the United States

The salary range comparison among surgeons differs significantly from that of other healthcare occupations, like the physical therapist vs occupational therapist salary comparison. In 2022, the average salary for all surgeons is $337,980 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Among different surgical specialty areas, orthopedic surgeons earn the most on average at $371,400 per year. This is followed by pediatric surgeons ($362,970), all other surgeons ($347,870), and ophthalmologists ($265,450). The top-paying industry for all other surgeons is the Offices of Physicians with the workforce getting paid an average of $385,420 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).  This is followed by Outpatient Care Centers (373,200) and Offices of Other Health Practitioners ($318,450).

The states with the highest concentration of jobs for surgeons (employment per thousand) are West Virginia (0.67), Minnesota (0.61), and South Dakota (0.57). The states with the highest employment of surgeons are New York (3,340), Texas (1,780), and Minnesota (1,710).

How can you develop resilience and maintain mental well-being as a surgeon?

Surgeons encounter high-stress environments where long hours and critical decision-making can impact mental health and overall career sustainability. Implementing structured stress-management techniques—such as mindfulness, peer support, and professional counseling—can help mitigate these pressures. Fostering a balance between clinical responsibilities and personal interests is essential for long-term well-being. Additionally, engaging in continuous educational activities that broaden your perspective, like exploring an easy bachelor degree, can offer new avenues for personal and professional growth without compromising clinical focus.

Is an advanced academic qualification essential for surgical advancement?

Integrating advanced academic credentials into your career can foster critical thinking, research acumen, and leadership skills that extend well beyond clinical practice. Pursuing further research opportunities or an advanced degree can enhance your ability to contribute to evidence-based practices, support interdisciplinary collaborations, and position you as a thought leader in evolving healthcare environments. Options such as a cheap doctorate degree online offer a cost-effective pathway to gain these competitive advantages while complementing your surgical expertise.

What are the emerging trends and innovations in surgical techniques and technology?

In recent years, surgery has undergone rapid transformations due to advancements in technology and medical research. These innovations aim to enhance precision, reduce recovery times, and improve patient outcomes. Here are some emerging trends and technologies revolutionizing the field:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS): MIS techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic surgery, allow surgeons to operate with smaller incisions, leading to quicker recovery times and reduced postoperative pain. Surgeons use advanced instruments and robotic assistance to navigate delicate tissues with enhanced precision.
• Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Robotics technology, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, enables greater control, flexibility, and accuracy during complex procedures. Robotic surgery is increasingly common in specialties like urology, gynecology, and cardiology, and it allows for remote procedures in some cases.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI-driven tools are enhancing diagnostic accuracy by analyzing imaging data and identifying patterns in complex medical data. Machine learning algorithms help surgeons plan surgeries by providing insights based on previous cases, predicting potential complications, and improving patient outcomes.
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Surgery: Surgeons use AR and VR for advanced training, which allows for simulated procedures and real-time guidance during operations. AR overlays enable visualization of internal structures, helping surgeons navigate complex anatomy more accurately.
• 3D Printing in Surgical Planning: 3D-printed models based on patient imaging data assist in planning and rehearsing surgeries, especially in reconstructive and orthopedic procedures. Surgeons can design custom implants for patients, leading to more personalized treatment options.

As surgical technology continues to advance, the field of surgery is expanding its potential to offer safer, more effective, and less invasive treatments. Staying informed about these trends is essential for aspiring surgeons as these advancements are reshaping the future of surgery.

Challenges and Real-Life Insights from Surgeons

Surgeons often encounter a dynamic yet demanding professional environment, where resilience and adaptability are crucial. Beyond the technical aspects, they face unique challenges, such as managing high-stakes situations and navigating emotional conversations with patients and families. These real-life insights provide a clearer picture of what to expect in this field:

• Emotional Resilience: Surgeons deal with critical, life-changing decisions daily, often bearing the emotional weight of their outcomes. Some surgeons describe moments of self-doubt or anxiety following challenging surgeries, underlining the importance of mental well-being.
• Time Management: The extended hours and on-call duties exert significant pressure on maintaining work-life balance. Effective time management and personal boundaries can make this lifestyle more sustainable.
• Mentorship and Teaching: Many experienced surgeons take pride in mentoring residents and students, sharing their knowledge, and shaping the next generation of medical professionals.
• Technology Adaptation: With innovations like robotic surgery and AI, surgeons constantly need to upgrade their skill sets to stay relevant. Embracing such advancements is both an opportunity and a challenge.

Hearing first-hand accounts from practicing surgeons offers invaluable perspectives for aspiring professionals. Building emotional intelligence and preparing for these realities can serve as an essential foundation for a successful and fulfilling surgical career.

Surgeons face numerous challenges, from long hours and high-pressure situations to the constant need for ongoing education and adaptation to new technologies. This demanding field requires dedication, resilience, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning. Many aspiring surgeons pursue their medical education at non profit universities, which often prioritize research and offer competitive tuition costs, making medical education more accessible to a wider range of students

What role does residency program selection play in your surgical career success?

Choosing a residency program is a pivotal decision that influences clinical competency, professional development, and long-term career trajectory. Evaluating programs based on accreditation standards, case volume, mentorship quality, research opportunities, and the breadth of clinical exposure is essential in aligning your training with career ambitions. A well-rounded residency program not only provides hands-on experience but also fosters leadership and collaborative skills critical to adapting to evolving surgical technologies and healthcare policies. Additionally, tailoring your undergraduate studies—such as exploring college majors—can complement your residency experience by strengthening foundational knowledge and analytical rigor.

What alternative options exist for completing prerequisite coursework?

While traditional undergraduate programs offer the required courses, accredited online options can provide a flexible and cost-effective alternative for fulfilling prerequisite coursework. Prospective surgeons may consider online programs that emphasize robust curricula in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, ensuring they meet medical school admissions standards. For example, research pathways like the cheapest online nursing prerequisites can serve as a benchmark for course rigor and affordability. It is essential to verify accreditation, transfer policies, and program compatibility with your future medical education goals.

Is being a surgeon the right career for you?

A degree for a surgeon is a challenging and rewarding career path that requires years of education, training, and dedication. Surgeons are medical doctors who perform operations to treat diseases, injuries, and deformities. They work in various specialties, such as general surgery, orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, cardiovascular surgery, plastic surgery, and more. Some surgeons may choose to expand their knowledge by pursuing an online masters in speech language pathology.

Surgeons need to have excellent manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. They also need to be able to work under pressure, cope with stress, and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues. Surgeons often work long and irregular hours and may deal with emergencies and complications. They also have to keep up with the latest advances in medical technology and research.

Similar to asking “What do I need to become a physical therapist assistant?" to become a surgeon,  you should be prepared to invest much time and effort into your education and training if you want to become a surgeon. You will need to complete a four-year undergraduate degree, a four-year medical degree, and a residency program that can last from three to eight years depending on your specialty. You may also need to complete a fellowship program for additional training in a subspecialty. You will also need to pass licensing exams and obtain board certification in your specialty as well. Moreover, you can branch out and find a niche by expanding your knowledge by taking the shortest doctoral programs online courses.

Being a surgeon can be a fulfilling and rewarding career for those who have the passion, skills, and commitment to help others. However, it is not a career for everyone. You should carefully weigh the pros and cons of this profession before deciding if it is the right choice for you.

Key Insights

• High Earning Potential: Surgeons earn significantly more than many other medical professionals, with an average yearly salary of $337,980 in 2022.
• Lengthy Educational Path: Becoming a surgeon requires a bachelor’s degree, medical degree (M.D. or D.O.), and several years of residency training, amounting to a total of 10 to 14 years of education and training.
• Specialized Training: Surgeons often pursue additional training through fellowship programs to specialize in areas such as orthopedic surgery, pediatric surgery, or cardiovascular surgery.
• High Demand and Shortage: There is a critical shortage of surgeons, particularly in rural areas, with an expected shortage of 15,800 to 30,200 surgeons by 2034.
• Rigorous Work Environment: Surgeons face long hours, high-pressure situations, and physical demands, including the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
• Licensing and Certification: Surgeons must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) and obtain board certification in their specialty.
• Professional Challenges: Surgeons must continuously update their skills and knowledge through continuing medical education to maintain their license and certification.

FAQ

1. What degree is needed to become a surgeon for 2025? To become a surgeon in the U.S., you need to complete a bachelor’s degree followed by a medical degree (M.D. or D.O.). Additionally, you must complete a residency program in surgery, which lasts from three to seven years depending on the subspecialty.
2. How long does it take to become a surgeon? It typically takes about 10 to 14 years to become a surgeon. This includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of medical school, and three to seven years of residency training.
3. What are the primary responsibilities of a surgeon? Surgeons diagnose and evaluate patients' medical conditions, plan and perform surgical procedures, monitor postoperative recovery, communicate with patients and their families, and stay updated with the latest medical knowledge and skills.
4. What is the job outlook for surgeons? The demand for surgeons is expected to grow by 3% from 2021 to 2031, which is slower than the average for all occupations. This translates to approximately 2,000 additional surgeon jobs by 2031.
5. What challenges do surgeons face? Surgeons face long hours, high-pressure work environments, the risk of burnout, and ergonomic challenges that can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. They also need to manage high education costs and stay current with medical advancements.
6. What is the average salary of a surgeon in the United States? The average salary for surgeons in the U.S. in 2022 was $337,980. Salaries vary by specialty, with orthopedic surgeons earning the most on average at $371,400 per year.
7. What are the steps to becoming a board-certified surgeon? To become a board-certified surgeon, you must complete a bachelor’s degree, a medical degree (M.D. or D.O.), a residency program in surgery, and pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX). After residency, you must pass a board certification exam in your surgical specialty.
8. Can I pursue a doctorate in surgery after becoming a surgeon? Yes, you can pursue advanced research degrees such as a Ph.D. or Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) in surgery. These programs focus on research, scholarly work, and academic pursuits within the field of surgery.
9. What are the best states for surgeon employment in terms of job concentration? The states with the highest concentration of surgeon jobs per thousand are West Virginia (0.67), Minnesota (0.61), and South Dakota (0.57).
10. Is being a surgeon the right career for me? Becoming a surgeon can be a fulfilling and rewarding career for those who have the passion, skills, and commitment to help others. It requires significant dedication, long hours, and the ability to work under pressure. Consider the pros and cons carefully before deciding if it is the right career choice for you.

References:

1. Association of American Medical Colleges. (2021, June 7). AAMC report reinforces mounting physician shortage. AAMC.
2. Data USA. (2023). Surgeons. Data USA.
3. National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by sex of student and field of study: 2019-20. NCES.
4. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Surgeons, all other. BLS.
5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023). Occupational outlook handbook: Occupational therapists. BLS.