A Career in Psychology
Psychiatrists and Psychologists:
What's the Difference?
According to the Your Health in Mind website, there are three main differences between psychiatrists and psychologists:
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors, psychologists are not.
- Psychiatrists prescribe medication, psychologists can't.
- Psychiatrists diagnose illness, manage treatment and provide a range of therapies for complex and serious mental illness. Psychologists focus on providing psychotherapy (talk therapy) to help patients.
It would seem many people get psychiatrists and psychologists confused with each other.
Both psychiatrists and psychologists understand how the brain works, our emotions, feelings and thoughts. Both can treat mental illness with psychological treatments (talking therapies).
However, psychiatrists attend medical school and become medical doctors before doing specialist training in mental health. Because they are doctors, psychiatrists understand the links between mental and physical problems. They can also prescribe medications.
Further information can be found at Your Health in Mind
Psychology Degrees in Victoria
Psychology is a popular field of study in Australia and is taught at universities in every state and territory. With diverse workplace settings and areas of expertise, psychology can be a highly rewarding and satisfying career choice. Psychologists who complete postgraduate studies in specific areas of psychology may be eligible to receive area of practice endorsement from the Psychology Board of Australia. Find out more at Australian Psychological Society (APS) - Careers in Psychology
Students are reminded that, for the most part, the only VCE prerequisite subject for university entry is an English. Students should verify this at VTAC. Please note that after completion of an APAC accredited undergraduate degree, a further minimum of three years education and training in psychology are required to register as a psychologist in Australia.
For a list of Victorian universities that offer dedicated APAC - Accredited undergraduate psychology degrees see below:
For a comprehensive list of all courses offering psychology, including it being offered as a major in arts and science degrees, as well as the many double-degree options, visit VTAC