Career Description

Immunologists are physicians who study the functions and disorders of the immune system. Disorders include asthma, allergies, arthritis, lupus and Crohn’s disease. Career paths include direct patient care or research of diagnoses and treatment options.

Academic Requirements

Physicians who have earned a medical degree, completed medical training and obtained a license become eligible to take certification exams. Immunologists must be certified by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) or the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) as a prerequisite for being certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI). Additional requirements for the ABAI certification include a 2-year fellowship in an immunology or allergy program and passing a qualifying exam.