Cardiologist
Cardiologists are internal medicine physicians who subspecialize in diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Getting Started
How to Become a Cardiologist
At 14 years to get started, this takes longer than the 10.5 years average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Doctoral Degree (typically 14 years) at an estimated cost of $250k–$375k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for cardiologist practice.
Begin Working
Cardiologist earn a median salary of $432k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Cardiologist Do?
Cardiologists are internal medicine physicians who subspecialize in diseases of the heart and blood vessels. They diagnose and treat conditions including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, valvular heart disease, and congenital heart defects. Cardiology is one of the highest-paid medical specialties due to the complexity of care and high demand.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Cardiologist Make?
At $432k/yr, cardiologist earn more than most Doctoral Degree-level careers, where the average is $254k/yr.
$432k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist | $432k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Cardiologist Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 3% growth over the next decade, roughly in line with the 4.8% average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
10-Year Growth
3%
About as fast as average
Current Employment
25k
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Significant Risk
Cardiologist roles face significant AI automation risk — below average among Doctoral Degree-level careers. Several core tasks could potentially be automated or substantially changed by AI. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Performing general physical activities
- +Handling and moving objects
- +Repairing and maintaining mechanical equipment
- +Repairing and maintaining electronic equipment
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
What Could Be Automated
- −Getting information
- −Monitoring processes, materials, or surroundings
- −Processing information
- −Evaluating information to determine compliance with standards
- −Analyzing data or information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12