Improving Recruitment and Funding in Psychiatry by Teaching College Undergraduates

Objective To explore attitudes among leaders in psychiatric training about the usefulness of teaching college undergraduates about psychiatry and to assess benefits in recruitment and funding. Method A survey of current practices and beliefs was sent to most adult and child psychiatry residency training directors (RTDs) and Chairs of academic departments of psychiatry in the U.S.). A follow-up survey was then sent to RTDs at responding programs that teach undergraduates. Interviews were also conducted with education experts to learn about the potential financial benefits of teaching undergraduates. Results Of the 289 (64%) respondents to the first survey, 237 (82%) expressed that teaching undergraduates might or would lead to increased recruitment. All RTDs at responding programs that offered courses answered the second survey, and four reported that undergraduate teaching brings in revenue. Experts confirmed the financial feasibility of these courses. Conclusion Undergraduate psychiatry courses may increase overall recruitment and provide financial benefits for the departments that offer such courses.