4 answers
Arianna
Student
Springfield, Illinois
2
Questions
Asked
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What Steps should I take in becoming a Psychiatrist?
Currently getting my Highschool diploma/GED and I'm curious as to what steps I should take next? What Should I major in? What Classes should I take? Any tips on studying? Could you explain to me step by step the process in becoming a Psychiatrist?
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4 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Adriana psychiatry is a complex practice that requires highly specialized medical knowledge and skills — often, working closely with patients who are vulnerable or at risk. Considering these factors, it’s no surprise that becoming a psychiatrist doesn’t happen overnight. While everyone’s situation is different, it typically takes about 12 years to earn all of the qualifications necessary.
• GRADUATE COLLEGE — You don’t need a specific degree to get into medical school. However, most medical schools expect students to have taken and passed one year each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and physics. A pre-med major can help you meet these basic requirements. A high GPA can increase the odds of acceptance into medical school. (Average GPA of applicants is 3.71.)
• TAKE THE MCAT — This is the medical school entrance exam. The average score for accepted applicants is 511 (out of 528 points total).
• APPLY TO MEDICAL SCHOOL
• GRADUATE MEDICAL SCHOOL — Medical school usually takes four years. High medical school grades can increase a student’s odds of getting a good residency.
• BECOME A LICENSED DOCTOR — You should apply in the state where you intend to practice or complete your residency. You’ll generally need to take a state board examination. You may need to meet additional requirements, such as completing a background check.
• COMPLETE YOUR PSYCHIATRIST RESIDENCY — Psychiatry residencies typically take four years. During residency, you’ll learn about and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, usually in a hospital settings.
• GRADUATE COLLEGE — You don’t need a specific degree to get into medical school. However, most medical schools expect students to have taken and passed one year each of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and physics. A pre-med major can help you meet these basic requirements. A high GPA can increase the odds of acceptance into medical school. (Average GPA of applicants is 3.71.)
• TAKE THE MCAT — This is the medical school entrance exam. The average score for accepted applicants is 511 (out of 528 points total).
• APPLY TO MEDICAL SCHOOL
• GRADUATE MEDICAL SCHOOL — Medical school usually takes four years. High medical school grades can increase a student’s odds of getting a good residency.
• BECOME A LICENSED DOCTOR — You should apply in the state where you intend to practice or complete your residency. You’ll generally need to take a state board examination. You may need to meet additional requirements, such as completing a background check.
• COMPLETE YOUR PSYCHIATRIST RESIDENCY — Psychiatry residencies typically take four years. During residency, you’ll learn about and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, usually in a hospital settings.
Rafael Diaz Montelongo
Consultant
235
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Arianna! To become a psychiatrist, you need to get a bachelor’s degree (psychology or biology works). Attend medical school (pass the MCAT®). Study hard—learn anatomy, pharmacology, and more. Do perhaps a 4-year psychiatric residency. Get licensed and certified. Remember, persistence, dedication, and a genuine interest in mental health will guide you on this rewarding path. You’ve got this!
Heather Stivers
Admin/HR Sup
22
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Hey there, it's awesome that you're thinking about becoming a psychiatrist! Here's some friendly advice to help you get started:
First off, congrats on working on getting your high school diploma/GED! That's a big achievement. Now, let's talk about the next steps.
When it comes to choosing a major, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Many aspiring psychiatrists choose majors like psychology, biology, or pre-med, but ultimately, it's about what interests you and what aligns with your career goals.
As for classes, focus on subjects like biology, chemistry, psychology, and neuroscience. These will give you a solid foundation for understanding the human mind and body, which is crucial for becoming a psychiatrist.
Studying can be tough, but here are a few tips to help you out: stay organized, break your studying into manageable chunks, find a study method that works for you (whether it's flashcards, study groups, or something else), and don't forget to take breaks and practice self-care.
Now, let's break down the process of becoming a psychiatrist step by step:
Get your bachelor's degree: This is the first step on your journey. Choose a major that aligns with your interests and career goals, and make sure to take classes that will prepare you for medical school.
Take the MCAT: The MCAT is the standardized test you'll need to take to get into medical school. Start preparing early and give yourself plenty of time to study.
Apply to medical school: Once you've taken the MCAT and completed your bachelor's degree, it's time to apply to medical school. Make sure to research different programs and find the ones that are the best fit for you.
Complete medical school: Medical school typically takes four years to complete. During this time, you'll take classes, participate in clinical rotations, and gain hands-on experience working with patients.
Complete a residency in psychiatry: After graduating from medical school, you'll need to complete a residency in psychiatry, which usually takes about four years. During your residency, you'll receive specialized training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
Get licensed: Once you've completed your residency, you'll need to get licensed in order to practice as a psychiatrist. Requirements vary by state, but typically involve passing a licensing exam and completing a certain number of supervised hours.
Consider pursuing further specialization: If you're interested in a particular area of psychiatry, like child and adolescent psychiatry or forensic psychiatry, you may want to consider pursuing further specialization through a fellowship program.
And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to becoming a psychiatrist! It's a long journey, but if you're passionate about helping others and dedicated to your studies, it's definitely achievable. Good luck!
First off, congrats on working on getting your high school diploma/GED! That's a big achievement. Now, let's talk about the next steps.
When it comes to choosing a major, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Many aspiring psychiatrists choose majors like psychology, biology, or pre-med, but ultimately, it's about what interests you and what aligns with your career goals.
As for classes, focus on subjects like biology, chemistry, psychology, and neuroscience. These will give you a solid foundation for understanding the human mind and body, which is crucial for becoming a psychiatrist.
Studying can be tough, but here are a few tips to help you out: stay organized, break your studying into manageable chunks, find a study method that works for you (whether it's flashcards, study groups, or something else), and don't forget to take breaks and practice self-care.
Now, let's break down the process of becoming a psychiatrist step by step:
Get your bachelor's degree: This is the first step on your journey. Choose a major that aligns with your interests and career goals, and make sure to take classes that will prepare you for medical school.
Take the MCAT: The MCAT is the standardized test you'll need to take to get into medical school. Start preparing early and give yourself plenty of time to study.
Apply to medical school: Once you've taken the MCAT and completed your bachelor's degree, it's time to apply to medical school. Make sure to research different programs and find the ones that are the best fit for you.
Complete medical school: Medical school typically takes four years to complete. During this time, you'll take classes, participate in clinical rotations, and gain hands-on experience working with patients.
Complete a residency in psychiatry: After graduating from medical school, you'll need to complete a residency in psychiatry, which usually takes about four years. During your residency, you'll receive specialized training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
Get licensed: Once you've completed your residency, you'll need to get licensed in order to practice as a psychiatrist. Requirements vary by state, but typically involve passing a licensing exam and completing a certain number of supervised hours.
Consider pursuing further specialization: If you're interested in a particular area of psychiatry, like child and adolescent psychiatry or forensic psychiatry, you may want to consider pursuing further specialization through a fellowship program.
And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to becoming a psychiatrist! It's a long journey, but if you're passionate about helping others and dedicated to your studies, it's definitely achievable. Good luck!
Duaa Sarayi
Psychology and pre med student
8
Answers
Richardson, Texas
Updated
Duaa’s Answer
Hey Arianna,
Wow, it's incredible that you're almost done with high school! Your next adventure awaits, and it's full of exciting choices. You can opt to attend a two-year college and earn an Associate's degree in Psychology. Alternatively, you could dive straight into a four-year university program to earn a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.
Aspiring to be a psychiatrist is a fantastic goal! My advice would be to start at a college, earn some credits, and then transfer to a university. This way, you'll have a solid foundation and a head start. Remember, while you can still take classes at college and transfer them, you'll need at least 45 credits from a university.
Keep going, Arianna! Your journey is just beginning, and it's going to be an amazing ride.
Wow, it's incredible that you're almost done with high school! Your next adventure awaits, and it's full of exciting choices. You can opt to attend a two-year college and earn an Associate's degree in Psychology. Alternatively, you could dive straight into a four-year university program to earn a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.
Aspiring to be a psychiatrist is a fantastic goal! My advice would be to start at a college, earn some credits, and then transfer to a university. This way, you'll have a solid foundation and a head start. Remember, while you can still take classes at college and transfer them, you'll need at least 45 credits from a university.
Keep going, Arianna! Your journey is just beginning, and it's going to be an amazing ride.