The study of dermatology prepares for students for work as dermatologists by teaching them how to treat various skin, nail, hair, and mucous membrane disorders such as acne, eczema, vitiligo, fungus, hair loss, skin cancer, and warts.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.