What courses do I need for a career in psychiatry?

Hey guys! So, I think I want to become a psychiatrist in the future, but I'm not sure which courses I should be taking in high school or maybe later on in college to prepare for this career? Any advice from current pre-med or psychology students? Thanks!

Hi there! It's great to hear you're interested in pursuing a career in psychiatry. To prepare yourself for this career path, you should consider taking a mix of science and humanities courses during your high school years. Additionally, building a strong foundation in psychology and biology will be particularly beneficial. Here are some suggestions:

In high school:

1. Biology, Chemistry, and Physics – These are core science subjects that will help you understand the foundational concepts needed for medical school.

2. Psychology – As you'll be working with mental health, having an introductory knowledge of psychology can be advantageous, if your school offers psychology as an elective.

3. AP courses – Taking AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and/or AP Psychology can not only prove your commitment to the field, but also lay a strong academic foundation that prepares you to thrive right away in college (and potentially even allows you to skip to a higher level of a subject straight away).

4. Math courses – It's essential to develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills through advanced math courses like Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and AP Calculus.

5. English and Humanities – These subjects will help you with critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, which are essential for success in medical school.

For college, once you've enrolled as a pre-med or psychology major, consider taking the following courses to meet medical school prerequisites and prepare you for the MCAT exam:

1. General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry

2. General Biology, Genetics, and Cell Biology

3. Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Abnormal Psychology

4. Advanced Physics

5. Calculus and Statistics

6. Biochemistry

7. Sociology and Ethics

It's also important to keep in mind that different medical schools may have slightly varied course requirements, so make sure to research the admission criteria for the schools you're interested in. Additionally, try to involve yourself in extracurricular activities like internships, research, or volunteer opportunities that will expose you to psychiatry and mental health care settings. These experiences will help you gain valuable practical experience, and demonstrate your dedication to the field.

Best of luck on your journey towards becoming a psychiatrist!