Phsyciatry

[jonny 4232]

Hi Im seriously considoring becomming a phshyciatrist when Im older how do I get into to it, what qualifications do I need, and how long will the course take please inform me. Thanks

p.s. am I spelling it right?

[Buenchico]

The old term 'psychiatrist' has largely been replaced by the terms 'clinical psychologist' and 'counselling psychologist' these days.

The first stage of the training is a 3-year degree course in Psychology. The basic requirements to get on the course are 5 GCSEs (A-C grades) + 3 A-levels. As with all degree courses, each university will specify any particular subjects they require and also which grades would be acceptable at A-level. (They're likely to be quite high).

You'll probably need to achieve either first class honours or a 2.1 degree to be accepted for a further 3-year postgraduate course in Clinical Psychology (or Counselling Psychology).

Further information is here:
http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyourcareer/j obprofiles/profiles/profile450/

Chris

[nfn]

just to clarify a point, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication etc a psychologist can't. Maybe a small difference in theory but a huge difference in practice.

Anyway jonny, a very worthy and worthwhile profession. I couldn't do it, I couldn't detach myself enough. Good luck.

[123paul]

Not sure what stage you are at. If you are pre A levels select A level chemistry & biology, v useful.

[twopennorth]

Psychiatry is a medical speciality so you would first need to take a medical degree. So expect that to take the best part of ten years.

To be a psychologist you normally take a degree in that subject and then further training. Try the British Psycological Society site for more information:

http://www.bps.org.uk/

[jonny 4232]

Thanks but I just recently found out that Psychiatrist isn't an old term at all still very much in use. A major difference between a psyciatrist and a psycologist is that a psychologist is a scientist and a psychiatrist is a speacility of a Doctor so in order for me to become one I would need to have a degree in medicine first then specialise in Psyciatry.