Becoming a psychiatrist in Australia

How long does it take?

To become a psychiatrist in Australia you:

• Study medicine and complete a medical degree (4–6 years)
• Do on-the-job training in a hospital after your degree (1 year — internship)
• Enrol and complete specialist training in psychiatry with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) — 5 years

In total: at least 10 years, generally longer.

What qualifications do you need?

1. Complete a medical degree.
2. Complete at least 12 months of internship in a hospital.
3. Enrol and complete training in the medical specialty of psychiatry with RANZCP.

For overseas-qualified psychiatrists

Qualified psychiatrists from other countries apply to the RANZCP for assessment of their specialist recognition under the Specialist Pathway for medical registration. See How to work as a specialist doctor in Australia.