Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists often work in private practices, psychiatric hospitals, community mental health centers, acute care hospitals, and government agencies. They may divide their time between private practice and clinic or hospital work, and often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including nurses, social workers, and psychologists. Many also engage in research, teaching, and administration alongside their clinical duties.

Physician salaries vary greatly depending on setting and on specialty. Self employed physicians typically earn higher salaries than those employed, but they must cover their own practice insurance, health insurance, and retirement. Psychiatrists generally earn more than those working in primary care (family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics).

Annual median salary: $237,845

Entry-level salary:  $89,227

Psychiatrists are expected to grow statewide by 26% between 2022 and 2032, with 258 average annual openings.

Becoming a physician requires completing medical school, which typically follows a bachelor’s degree, often in a science heavy “pre med” track. Pre med students study subjects like physics, biology, chemistry, and math. After earning their degree, applicants must take the MCAT, with medical school admission being highly competitive. Medical school involves four years of education and clinical training, followed by 3-8 years of internship and residency, depending on the specialty. Some schools offer combined undergraduate and medical programs lasting six to seven years.

To be licensed as a physician in New York, an individual must graduate from an accredited medical school, complete an accredited residency program, and pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). While board certification is not required for licensure in New York, most physicians are board certified by the board of their specialty. Board certification usually includes written and oral tests that evaluate both the knowledge and experience of the physician.

Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources for undergraduate education. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.

Most medical schools offer need based and merit based scholarships, with the financial aid office serving as the primary resource for information on grants and loans. Once admitted, students should explore options with the school’s financial aid office. Scholarships are also available during medical school through the National Health Service Corps or through a number of state programs in exchange for a service commitment in a federally designated shortage area.