Summer
What do you have to major in specifically to be a child psychiatrist
I want to be a child psychiatrist, but my college (I'm dual enrolled) only offers a general psychology A.S. Degree #psychology #psychiatry #childpsychology
3 answers
Leigh Dooley
Leigh’s Answer
In order to be a psychiatrist you have to go to medical school. While you are in undergraduate school you can major in anything you like. It is good to be well-rounded. It is important to do very well in your pre-med classes and get a good (3.5 or greater if possible) science GPA. Once you get to medical school (traditionally after the first 2 years) you will start clinical rotations. In your 4th year of medical school you will have a chance to do elective clincial rotations. If possible, you could do a child psychiatry rotation to get more exposure/experience with the profession.
G. Mark Stewart
G. Mark’s Answer
A psychiatrist needs to be a medical doctor, and therefore you would need to pursue the curriculum for medicine. Medicine requires a hefty amount of science and biology, so you would know pretty quickly if it was for you. And taking any of those courses couldn't hurt in just about any other field as well. Go to your counselor and discuss next steps at your school. Best of luck!
Linda Ann Robinson, Ph.D.
Linda Ann’s Answer
Hello Summer,
Does your school have a pre-medicine major? If yes, then it would serve you well to change your major to pre-med. In order to become a psychiatrist, you must go to medical school. In order to get into medical school you need to pass an entrance examination called the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). The MCAT has a writing component and subtests on physics, biology, chemistry, organic chemistry and behavioral science. You will also need strong letters of recommendation when applying to medical school.
After obtaining your bachelor's degree, medical school will take another 5 years to complete plus another year for a residency in psychiatry...