PSYCHOLOGY

How do I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?

A BPS-accredited psychology degree, such as Hull’s, provides an essential foundation for a career in psychiatry. It equips you with a deep understanding of human behaviour, mental health, research methods, and critical thinking - all skills that are highly valuable in psychiatric practice. After completing your undergraduate degree, the next step is to undertake medical school, where you will gain the medical knowledge and clinical training required to become a doctor and specialise in psychiatry.

1. Complete a Psychology degree

A psychology degree introduces you to mental health, cognition, behaviour, and research skills. It also develops analytical, communication, and ethical awareness skills, which are highly valued in psychiatry. Choosing a BPS-accredited course ensures you meet professional standards and are well-prepared for future clinical training.

2. Gain relevant experience

Before applying to medical school, gaining practical experience in mental health settings is valuable. Roles such as assistant psychologist, mental health support worker, or volunteering in healthcare or community services provide insights into patient care and strengthen your application.

3. Medical school

To become a psychiatrist, you must complete a medical degree (MBBS). Graduate-entry medical programmes often accept psychology graduates, enabling you to build on your existing knowledge. Medical school provides the core medical knowledge and clinical skills required for all doctors.

4. Foundation training

After medical school, you undertake a two-year Foundation Programme, rotating across medical specialties. Placements in psychiatry during this period give early exposure to mental health practice and help you develop patient management and clinical decision-making skills.

5. Specialty training in psychiatry

Following foundation training, you enter core psychiatry training (3 years), then higher specialty training (minimum 3 years). This includes clinical placements across different psychiatric specialties, supervision from senior psychiatrists, and passing exams set by the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych). Completing this pathway allows you to register as a consultant psychiatrist.

Professional bodies to know about

Alternative careers for psychology graduates

If you choose not to pursue medicine, your psychology degree opens doors to:

  • Clinical psychology or counselling
  • Research and academia
  • Education, youth work, or social care
  • Business, HR, and marketing roles

Find out more in our 'What can I do with a psychology degree?' FAQ.

Aaron Hall Psychology student sat in front of a computer showing a medical scan of a brain

Explore our Psychology degree

Ready to understand how people think, feel and act - and why it matters? At Hull, our psychology degree blends rigorous science with practical experience from the start. You’ll investigate the brain, behaviour and mental health, while gaining real skills through labs, research and meaningful community engagement. Study in a place that champions curiosity, collaboration and almost 100 years of academic excellence.

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