What is my Plan?
University Pathways
University of Toronto (UTM)
Psychology
Degree: Honours Bachelor of Science
Program Length: 4 years
Estimated Cost: $8,741.60/year
Average Requirement: Mid to high 70s
Course Requirements: Six 4U/M courses, including:
Advanced Functions (MHF4U)
Biology (SBI4U)
English (ENG4U)
Co-op Granted: No
Why: Even though it's not the most practical major when trying to become a doctor, it's the one that interests me the most. UofT is one of the best schools in the world and this course allows me to be more flexible with my career choice just in case I change my mind.
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University of Toronto (UTSG)
Biochemistry
Degree: Honours Bachelor of Science
Program Length: 4 years
Estimated Cost: $7,787/year
Average Requirement: Low 80s to low 90s
Course Requirements: Six 4U/M courses, including:
Calculus and Vectors (MVC4U)
Biology (SBI4U)
Chemistry (SCH4U)
English (ENG4U)
*Physics (SPH4U) Recommended
Co-op Granted: No
Why: Biochemistry is my preferred major if I'm 100% serious about becoming a doctor. Even though it's much harder than psychology, it'll make my med school experience a lot easier while still maintaining my interests.
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McMaster University
Health Sciences
Degree: Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours)
Program Length: 4 years
Estimated Cost: $7,221.45/year
Average Requirement: Low 90s
Course Requirements: Six 4U/M courses, including:
Biology (SBI4U)
Chemistry (SCH4U)
English (ENG4U)
One of the following; Mathematics of Data Management (MDM4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), or Calculus and Vectors (MVC4U)
One non-Math, non-Science, or non-Technology Grade 12 U or U/C level course
Co-op Granted: No
Why: McMaster is known for its exceptional courses in the healthcare field. It's my third choice as the jobs I can get with this degree can be very limiting if I don't pursue higher education. On top of all this, my dad wants me to go here as he was an alumni and promotes the school any chance he gets.
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Which post-secondary institutions will suit my future career goals?
From the research I've done, I think both UofT and McMaster University are two schools that can provide me with the education I need to become a forensic psychiatrist. Both offer numerous courses that match my interests and have unmatched learning opportunities.
How does my future pathway affect my course selection moving forward?
After comparing all three programs, it is a necessity to have both biology, chemistry, and one grade 12 math. All three are courses I'm planning to take as I am completing grade 11 biology and chemistry and advanced functions this year. The only thing that makes me nervous is how physics is recommended for biochemistry. Unfortunately, I don't have room for physics in my regular schedule. However, that can be fixed by taking it in nightschool or summer school.
What additional experiences will I need to pursue to be successful?
To be successful in such a competitive field, I'm going to have to gain more experience. This can include volunteer work at MSH or other hospitals, conducting my own research, or even being involved in courses like the Youth Summer Program offered at UofT. This shows my dedication and passion for my future.
What challenges might I face? What solutions will I find?
As I said, becoming a doctor is a very difficult and competitive thing to do. It requires a lot of hard work and focus even in my teenage years. As of right now, my grades are my top priority as strong work habits will transfer into my post-secondary life. I think my biggest worry is maintaining my grades because I need to have a high average. That is why I'm trying to study a lot more than I used to and focus on the task at hand. I think another challenge is burnout. I'm already feeling a bit burnt out and I have yet to finish high school. If I want to become a forensic psychiatrist, I'm going to have to go through at least another 12 years of post-secondary school. So even though it's important to focus on academics, I still should dedicate regular time for myself to relax and rewind.
What is my post-secondary plan?
Even though my mind constantly changes, the plan I'm most content with is;
1. Honours Bachelor of Science degree from UTM with a major in psychology and minors in biology and health sciences. (4 years)
2. MD Program at UofT (4 years)
3. Psychiatry residency (5 years)
4. Forensic psychiatry fellowship (1 year)