Advice on Psych NP vs. Psychiatry MD/DO

Can anyone here give me some advice on the pros/cons of these career paths (psych NP v. psychiatry MD/DO) compared to the other? There are obvious differences like time in training, but any ideas/opinions would be appreciated.

Is that supposed to be helpful? I'm honestly seeking advice and was advised to post in this forum...?

Originally Posted by ReInventor

Is that supposed to be helpful? I'm honestly seeking advice and was advised to post in this forum...?

The reason for the popcorn is well warranted. If you look at the other threads there is much flaming/debate regarding NPvsMD and this discussion is potentially another can of worms about to be added to the fire. Perhaps there will be some advice, but I am just informing you of what generally happens on this sub forum.

Originally Posted by ReInventor

Can anyone here give me some advice on the pros/cons of these career paths (psych NP v. psychiatry MD/DO) compared to the other? There are obvious differences like time in training, but any ideas/opinions would be appreciated.

Do u have specific questions?

There's obvious differences matriculation requirements, length and intensity of education/training, costs and opportunity costs, lifestyle, scope of practice etc etc etc...

Originally Posted by Bernoull

Do u have specific questions?

There's obvious differences matriculation requirements, length and intensity of education/training, costs and opportunity costs, lifestyle, scope of practice etc etc etc...

How about we explore lifestyle, scope of practice, and the content of training...I'm mostly just familiar with the time differences.

Originally Posted by ReInventor

How about we explore lifestyle, scope of practice, and the content of training...I'm mostly just familiar with the time differences.

I can't comment on NP psych education, but you can compare the curricular and degree requirements for the schools you're interested in. For instance here Vanderbilt Univ's MD and NP psych curricula.

https://medschool.vanderbilt.edu/portal/
http://www.nursing.vanderbilt.edu/msn/pmhnp_plan.html

Psychiatry actually has one of the better lifestyles among the medical specialties, here's a link that has an overview about the specialty.. Avg hrs/wk = 44. Full scope of psychiatric practice obviously.

Training (Med school phase): 2yrs basic sciences + 2 yrs clinical sciences + (board)/Step exams 1, 2 & 3. Step 3 is usually done during 1st year of residency.

Training (Residency): Minimum of 4 years, 1-2 year fellowships are available.


http://residency.wustl.edu/medadmin/...5?OpenDocument

Goodluck!