Background –

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who work to diagnose, treat and help prevent mental disorders. The prescription of medication is the primary duty of a Psychiatrist. In addition, a Psychiatrist may collaborate with other professionals such as Physicians, Psychologists or Social Workers to enable comprehensive treatment. Note that in some states (e.g., Illinois), Clinical Psychologists with appropriate training may also prescribe medications. 

What can I expect to earn? $200,220*

What classes at GVSU may help me in my career? Discuss with your advisor which courses among those on this list, along with other courses not listed here, would best serve your career goals. 

1. PSY 302 – Psychology of Adjustment
2. PSY 303 – Psychopathology
3. PSY 326 – Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
4. PSY 432 – Psychopharmacology
5. PSY 452 – Counseling: Theories and Applications
6. To apply to medical school, you will need to take additional coursework. Some suggested courses are listed below. For more detailed information regarding suggested classes and experiences go to this website: Medical School Fact Sheet
   1. BIO 120: General Biology I
   2. BIO 375/376: Genetics w/lab
   3. BMS 208: Human Anatomy
   4. BMS 309: Laboratory in Human Anatomy (Cadaver)
   5. BMS 212/213: Introductory Microbiology w/lab
   6. BMS 290/291: Human Physiology w/lab
   7. PHY 220: General Physics I (PRQ: MTH 122+MTH 123)
   8. PHY 221: General Physics II
   9. CHM 115: Principles of Chemistry I (PRQ: MTH 110)
   10. CHM 116: Principles of Chemistry II (PRQ: MTH 122)
   11. CHM 241: Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences I
   12. CHM 242: Organic Chemistry for Life Sciences II
   13. CHM 461: Biochemistry I
   14. SOC 101: Introduction to Sociology

What additional education is required? Medical school and extended psychiatric training in the form of post-graduate training (“Residency”) is required to be considered a Psychiatrist.

What skills are helpful for a Psychiatrist to have? Oral and written communication and comprehension are very important for this profession. In addition, deductive and inductive reasoning skills, problem solving and communication skills are also important for a Psychiatrist.

Employer Possibilities – Generally work in a variety of settings which can include clinics, private practices, psychiatric or general hospitals, community agencies, prisons, emergency rooms, etc.

For More Information- https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-psychiatry

*bls.gov (2016) mean annual wage