Discover the Royal College of Psychiatrists

RCpsych: Shaping the future of psychiatry

RCPsych is dedicated to advancing the field of psychiatry. It is the official body responsible for shaping the curriculum and setting professional standards to ensure high-quality and effective patient care.

Support for medical students

The College provides essential resources to help you learn about becoming a psychiatrist and gain psychiatry exposure during medical school. Find information on:

• training and career options in Scotland
• student membership
• taster sessions and weeks
• events 

These are designed to connect you with the profession and highlight the many exciting career paths in psychiatry.

Find out more about RCPsych medical student opportunities.

International medical graduates

Are you an IMG, planning your move to Scotland? Maybe you’re already exploring psychiatry training and career opportunities.

The RCPsych provides clear guidance and resources to help you achieve specialist registration and consultant status. This includes:

• preparation for the MRCPsych exam
• understanding the Portfolio pathway process

Discover the support available for IMGs.

Resident doctors

Whether you are exploring psychiatry or have committed to the specialty, the College is a vital support system throughout your career.

As a foundation trainee, the College offers essential resources to help you explore your career options and confirm your interest in psychiatry. You can find information on:

• career paths and training in Scotland
• taster sessions and events
• associate membership benefits

The College continues to be a vital resource as you progress through core and higher training. You can access:

• the latest curriculum
• essential exam resources (MRCPsych)
• e-learning platforms
• guidance on assessments

RCPsych also offers community and peer support, plus the tools needed to complete your training and become a confident consultant.

Learn more about RCPsych postgraduate psychiatry training support in Scotland.

SAS doctors

The College recognises and values the significant experience and contribution of SAS doctors in psychiatry. It provides access to the following:

• relevant psychiatry CPD resources
• support for your ongoing professional development
• guidance on career progression routes, including achieving specialist status via the Portfolio pathway

Discover RCPsych resources for SAS doctors.

Consultant psychiatrists

As a consultant psychiatrist, you’re at the forefront of the profession. The College will support your continued career development by providing access to:

• psychiatry CPD resources
• opportunities to shape standards and curriculum
• platforms for leadership, teaching, supervision, and research

Get essential support in your first 5 years as a consultant or locum consultant. StartWell is a consultant-led initiative designed to help you thrive.

Find out more about StartWell from the RCPsych.

Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland

RCPsych in Scotland supports psychiatrists, ensuring they have a strong voice within the unique framework of Scottish law and health services. By advocating for the profession, the College aims to improve:

• outcomes for people with mental illness
• mental health of individuals, families, and communities throughout Scotland

Find out more about RCPsych in Scotland.