What GCSEs Do I Need to Be a Psychiatrist?

Many people choose the field of psychiatry because it is fascinating and diverse. Becoming a psychiatrist opens up a world of opportunities and specialisations.

For example, a psychiatrist can decide to pursue many avenues, including a career in clinical psychology, forensic psychology, or occupational psychology. Having so many diverse choices allows you to pick an area that suits your skills and interests.

Your journey to becoming a psychiatrist begins with an undergraduate degree. Then, you can extend your education into the areas of specialisation you want to pursue. It all starts with choosing GCSEs that will help you get into the most prestigious universities in the UK.

In this article, you’ll learn what GCSEs you’ll need to become a psychiatrist, as well as optional GCSEs to consider. 

Essential GCSEs for Psychiatrists

Universities often have varying entrance requirements. Check with any of the schools you are interested in attending to make sure you get the GCSEs they require. Most schools will require 5 GCSEs at grades A* to C. 

Getting into medical school is competitive. Having high grades, especially in English, Maths, and Sciences, demonstrates academic strength and that you have the ability to handle more rigorous coursework. 

We recommend starting with these five GCSEs, which will provide a solid foundation for achieving academic success and help prepare you for your career as a Psychiatrist.

English

Effective communication is essential for psychiatrists. You’ll need to be able to communicate well with patients and peers, as well as within documentation. Building strong language skills is helpful for conveying complex ideas effectively and with empathy. GCSE English is beneficial for students pursuing any medical career path. 

Maths

Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be helpful when doing research and making patient diagnoses. GCSE Maths lays a strong foundation and is required by most universities. Most medical schools require passing Maths with a B or 6.

Biology

GCSE Biology is useful for medical students, no matter which branch they pursue. This science course covers human physiology, anatomy, and biological processes. These are foundational to any medical practice. It helps future psychiatrists understand the human brain and body. 

Chemistry

Future psychiatrists benefit in many ways from taking GCSE Chemistry. They must have an understanding of pharmacology, biochemistry, and how chemical processes work in the human body. A psychiatrist will need to understand how medications act inside the biological system.

Psychology

For aspiring psychiatrists, GCSE Psychology gives a broad overview of the human mind and behaviour. The course starts with foundational knowledge essential for building a long, successful career as a psychiatrist.

Optional GCSEs for Psychiatrists

Physics

Even though physics isn’t always a strict requirement, it can be helpful for students pursuing a career in psychiatry. GCSE Physics helps build an understanding of some aspects of medical technology and the diagnostic equipment that may be used by psychiatrists.

Sociology

GCSE Sociology enhances the student’s understanding of human behaviour and social interactions. As a psychiatrist, you’ll need sociology to help you support patients from a human, rather than a technical, aspect.

Requirements for Top UK Universities

Oxford University GCSE Requirements 

Oxford University doesn’t formally have GCSE requirements for studying medicine. However, you will want to be prepared for the application process as well as the academic demands of the course of study. Applicants should have covered the basics of Biology, Mathematics, English, and Physics minimally before applying.

University of Edinburgh GCSE Requirements

The University of Edinburgh Medical School requires students to have GCSEs at grade B/6 in Mathematics, English, Chemistry, and Biology. However, you can replace individual grades in the sciences by having a Double Award in combined sciences at Grade BB.

King’s College London (KCL) GCSE Requirements 

King’s College London requires applicants to complete GCSE coursework. You’ll need a grade 6/B in both Maths and English Language. 

University of St Andrews GCSE Requirements

In order to pursue studies at the University of St. Andrews, you must have at least five GCSEs at grade A or 7. 

How to Choose Your GCSE Subjects for Aspiring Psychiatrists

University Requirements

The most important part of choosing GCSE subjects to prepare for your career as a psychiatrist is making sure you meet university requirements. Schools vary in their entrance requirements, making it critical for you to do some research to make sure you align your GCSE classes with entry requirements at specific schools you are interested in attending.  

Strong Foundation

Becoming a psychiatrist requires years of academic study. You’ll have to obtain an undergraduate degree before even looking into medical school. Choose GCSE courses that will help lay a strong foundation for future studies.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Try to choose GCSE courses that you know you can complete successfully. Choose areas you are already interested in or like. This will make studying easier and more enjoyable. It’s okay to choose some courses that are not your strengths, as you can shore up areas you know need to be strengthened.

What Happens If I Don’t Choose These Subjects?

It’s okay if these GCSE courses feel a bit overwhelming. There is no pressure to take the specific recommended courses. However, if you want to succeed academically and reach your goal of a career as a psychiatrist, it will require rigorous studies. Taking GCSEs helps prepare you for the years of study ahead. Becoming a psychiatrist is not an easy road, so you’ll need to be committed to taking each step toward your goal. 

Improve Your Grades With Save My Exams

At Save My Exams, you’ll find revision notes, exam questions, past papers and flashcards to aid your revision. 

Our resources are written by teachers and examiners. That means notes, questions by topic and worked solutions that show exactly what the examiners for each specific exam are looking for. 

As a result, you can walk into your exams confident and prepared. In fact, 91% of students who use Save My Exams report getting better grades.

Explore Our GCSE Revision Resources