Aims: The Residency Program in Psychiatry provides an educational experience that insures that its graduates possess sound clinical judgment & a high order of knowledge about the diagnosis, treatment & prevention of all psychiatric disorder and the common medical & neurological disorders which relate to the practice of psychiatry.  Residents who complete the program will be competent to render effective professional care to patients. The psychiatry residency is 6 years of which the first 2 years are spent at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the next 2 years are spent abroad. Residency Requirements: Residents must have approval of their sponsoring organization. Residents must reach a score of 7.0 or higher in each part of the English Language (IELTS) test by the end of their first year in order for them to proceed with their overseas placement. Objectives of Training: Our objective in the Psychiatry Residency is the development of a high order of clinical competence through knowledge, skills and attitudes. Knowledge: of major theories & view points in psychiatry. Understanding of biopsychosocial factors that influence development. Understanding of all psychiatric disorders. Understanding of when & how to refer. Appreciation of research methods. Skills: Experience and competence with all age groups in clinical diagnosis – interviewing, history taking, physical and mental state examination and systematic recording of findings. Competence in formulating a differential diagnosis and treatment plan. Experience of major types of therapy. Liaison experience. Development of leadership and administrative skills. Ability to appraise critically scientific literature. Ability to teach medical students. Attitudes: Awareness of strengths and limitations.   High ethical standards. Commitment to continuing professional development. Training: Year 1 and 2 are spent at SQUH in general psychiatry, child psychiatry and drug and alcohol abuse. Residents spend time in the clinic and on the wards under the supervision of a Senior Registrar and Consultant. There is a weekly case conference, journal club and seminar with individual supervision by the consultant.  The department is approved by the British Royal College of Psychiatrists for training and similar approval by the Arab Board of Psychiatry is expected soon. Year 3 is spent on an Approved Psychiatric Training scheme in the U.K., working as a Senior House Officer and later as a Registrar.  During this time, Residents can sit the Membership examination of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, which could be taken fully after 3 years of enrolling in the training programme.