Masters Degrees (Clinical Neuropsychology)

This programme combines the academic excellence of the School of Experimental Psychology with the clinical experience, knowledge and skill of a large and well-established clinical neuropsychology department within North Bristol NHS Trust, a regional neurosciences hospital that has an international reputation for excellence in neuroscience.

The programme places a strong focus on patient care, diagnosis and management of a range of neurological conditions, and is delivered by academics and experienced clinicians. The Clinical Neuropsychology Department offers neuropsychology services to a broad range of patient groups: both paediatric and adult, acute inpatient and outpatient, as well as patients seen primarily for diagnostic assessment and patients seen for rehabilitation.

Services are offered to patients being referred from neurosurgery, neurology, neuropsychiatry, and rehabilitation medicine, as well as from physicians within the stroke services. Clinical services are also offered to specialist programmes of interventional neurosurgery, principally for epilepsy and movement disorders but also more recently for mood disorders. Along with working within the acute hospital trust, the department provides input to specialist inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for people with acquired brain injury.

All lectures are broadcast live online using Adobe Connect and can be viewed at a later date. Some units are provided in a block format of teaching (ie one unit over a single week). The others are presented as lectures on a weekly basis.

Programme structure

Core units
-Functional Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Methods and Issues in Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Issues in Neuropsychology
Part B: Functional Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience Methods

-Applied Clinical Neuropsychology and Principles of Assessment (30 credits)
Part A: Assessment in Clinical Neuropsychology
Part B: Applied Neuropsychology

-Development, Rehabilitation and Evidence-based Neuropsychology and Principles of Clinical Statistics (30 credits)
Part A: Development and Rehabilitation
Part B: Evidence-Based Neuropsychology

-Theoretical and Clinical Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Clinical Neuropsychology in Practice
Part B: Theoretical Neuropsychology

-Dissertation (60 credits)

Careers

This degree provides professional training in clinical neuropsychology and meets the British Psychological Society requirements for the knowledge dimension of the Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN). It also provides continuing professional development to anyone already working in a clinical setting who is seeking specialist training to work with patients with neuropsychological defects.

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This programme combines the academic excellence of the School of Experimental Psychology with the clinical experience, knowledge and skill of a large and well-established Clinical Neuropsychology department within North Bristol NHS Trust, a regional neurosciences hospital which has an international reputation for excellence in neuroscience.

The programme places a strong focus on patient care, diagnosis and management of a range of neurological conditions, and is delivered by academics and experienced clinicians. Neuropsychology services are offered to a broad range of patient groups: paediatric and adult; acute inpatient and outpatient; patients seen primarily for diagnostic assessment and patients seen for rehabilitation.

Services are offered to patients being referred from neurosurgery, neurology, neuropsychiatry and rehabilitation medicine, as well as from physicians within the stroke services. Clinical services are also offered to specialist programmes of interventional neurosurgery, principally for epilepsy and movement disorders but also more recently for mood disorders. As well as working within the acute hospital trust, the department provides input to specialist inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for people with acquired brain injury.

All lectures are broadcast live online using Adobe Connect and can be viewed at a later date. Some units are provided in a block format of teaching (ie one unit over a single week), while others are delivered on a weekly basis.

Programme structure

The programme content is primarily guided by the British Psychological Society (BPS) syllabus and guidelines for training in clinical neuropsychology. The diploma includes eight distinct units, which are taught within the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust.

Core units
-Functional Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Methods and Issues in Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Issues in Neuropsychology
Part B: Functional Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience Methods

-Applied Clinical Neuropsychology and Principles of Assessment (30 credits)
Part A: Assessment in Clinical Neuropsychology
Part B: Applied Neuropsychology

-Development, Rehabilitation and Evidence-based Neuropsychology and Principles of Clinical Statistics (30 credits)
Part A: Development and Rehabilitation
Part B: Evidence-Based Neuropsychology

-Theoretical and Clinical Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Clinical Neuropsychology in Practice
Part B: Theoretical Neuropsychology

Careers

This degree provides professional training in clinical neuropsychology and meets the British Psychological Society requirements for the knowledge dimension of the Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN). It also provides continuing professional development to anyone already working in a clinical setting who is seeking specialist training to work with patients with neuropsychological defects.

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This Masters programme in Clinical Neuropsychology is designed for those who are eligible for registration in the UK's Health Professions Council as a clinical psychologist.

Why this programme

-The Clinical Neuropsychology programme has been developed in partnership with NHS Education for Scotland and offers specialist knowledge for clinical psychologists and other healthcare professionals working in Scotland and the rest of the UK.
-Why study Neuropsychology at the University of Glasgow? The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society Division of Neuropsychology and provides the underpinning knowledge component of the Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN).
-The University has a strong tradition of research in clinical neuroscience and clinical neuropsychology.

Programme structure

The majority of students on this programme are clinical psychologists working in the NHS and most complete their programme working part-time over two years, although a small number complete all the teaching blocks in one year.

All our lectures are given by subject specialists, including clinical academics at the University as well as many other specialists from around the UK and occasionally internationally.

You will take a total of eight courses, arranged into blocks of teaching. Each teaching block lasts two weeks and covers two courses.

Courses
-Context and perspectives in clinical neuropsychology
-Professional issues and research methods
-Neuroscience
-Epilepsy, seizure and sleep disorders
-Acquired brain injury and disorders of memory, attention and executive functioning
-Degenerative conditions
-Stroke and disorders of perception, language, praxis and calculation
-Paediatric neurology and neuropsychology

Plus a research project for MSc students.

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he MSc in Foundations of Clinical Neuropsychology aims to provide you with a strong foundation of knowledge in the following areas relevant to clinical neuropsychology:

Neuropsychological theory and evidence from clinical and experimental studies
Neuropsychological disorders, including their basis in neuroanatomy and neuropathology, and their impact on individuals and families
Neuropsychological assessment
Neuropsychological rehabilitation
Research Methods
Conducting neuropsychological research.

The course will be of interest to graduates in psychology or closely-related disciplines, and to established health professionals with appropriate clinical qualifications and relevant experience.

How the course can further your career progression
This course of study can serve as a basis for research, clinical training, or professional practice in this area. On successful completion of the course, students will be well-equipped to undertake further postgraduate study leading to a PhD, or to work in neuropsychological research. The course is validated by the ESRC as providing an appropriate Master’s level research training within the 1 + 3 PhD model . The course provides an excellent basis for seeking employment in health care, for example as an assistant psychologist or rehabilitation assistant, and for progressing to professional training, for example in clinical psychology or related areas. Established health professionals taking the course will find that it provides a valuable opportunity for continuing professional development, which may contribute to future career progression.

Course Content
The course includes three components: content modules, research methods modules, and a research thesis. Content and methods modules are all 20 credit modules and the research thesis is worth 60 credits. Students achieving 120 credits on the taught modules, but not completing a research thesis, may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma. The content modules are designed to provide an in-depth look at theory, evidence and practice in clinical neuropsychology.

Student Profile
To get a taste of what life as a postgraduate student in the School of Psychology is like, you may want to read the profiles of some of our current and past Postgraduate students.

Funding
Please see School Page for details

Career Prospects
The course can serve as a basis for research, clinical training, or professional practice in this area. On successful completion of the course, students will be well equipped to undertake further postgraduate study leading to a PhD, or to work in neuropsychological research. The course provides an excellent basis for seeking employment in health care, for example as an assistant psychologist or rehabilitation assistant, and for progressing to professional training, for example in clinical psychology or related areas. Established health professionals taking the course will find that it provides a valuable opportunity for continuing professional development, which may contribute to future career progression.

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Clinical neuropsychology is a specialty discipline within psychology which is focused on the associations between the brain and neuropsychological functions, including cognition, emotion and behaviour. Clinical neuropsychology is particularly interested in the effects of brain disorders and other clinical conditions affecting the brain on these functions.

Disorders and conditions comprise acquired or congenital neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions in children, adolescents and adults, such as ADHD, autism, stroke, brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, drug abuse, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, etc.

Clinical neuropsychologists can be involved in both the assessment and treatment of people with brain disorders in various applied and often clinical settings, but also in patient related research. Methods used in the field of clinical neuropsychology are neuropsychological tests, neuroimaging and electrophysiological techniques.

With the aging population, the number of people with neuropsychological disorders increases and with this also the demand for well trained clinical neuropsychologists.

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Overview

Students completing this degree will become scientists/practitioners of a high calibre, well grounded in theory and practice, and capable of working within a range of clinically oriented areas, as well as assuming full independent professional responsibility in clincial settings and maintaining an enquiring research attitidue in day-to-day work.

Students are eligible for general registration with the Psychology Board of Australia once they have completed all components of the degree.

The course consists of three main components:
- a series of theoretical and technical units in areas fundamental to practice and research in clinical neuropsychology
- supervised placement experiences in neuropsychological settings
- a research proposal and dissertation.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-clinical-neuropsychology

Key benefits

- Lets you learn from visiting clinicians and staff, and offers the chance to present cases from your placement
- Ensures you have the skills to move across a range of clinically oriented areas and to assume full independent professional responsibility through supervised practical placement
- Gives you access to the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic

Suitable for

Psychology honours graduates (within the last 10 years) wanting a career as a clinical neuropsychologist.

PLEASE NOTE
Applications for this program are competitive. Satisfying the admission criteria does not guarantee a place on the program. Submission of supplementary details and 2 referees reports are required for the competitive selection process for ranking to the interview stage.

Work experience requirements

either through work or voluntary service.

English language requirements

IELTS of 7.0 overall with minimum 7.0 in each band, or equivalent

All applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.
For more information see English Language Requirements. http://mq.edu.au/study/international/how_to_apply/english_language_requirements/

You may satisfy the English language requirements if you have completed:
- senior secondary studies equivalent to the NSW HSC
- one year of Australian or comparable tertiary study in a country of qualification

Careers

- Accreditation
The degree is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council and approved by the College of Clinical Neuropsychologists. Completion of the Master of Clinical Neuropsychology leads to registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and working towards endorsement as a clinical neuropsychologist in Australia.

- Career Opportunities
Clinical neuropsychologists work in hospitals, brain injury units, dementia and aged care units, paediatrics and development disorder units, psychiatric and neuropsychiatry units, neurology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation units.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-clinical-neuropsychology

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This MSc is a collaboration between the School of Experimental Psychology within the University and the Department of Neuropsychology within North Bristol NHS Trust. The degree provides you with training in clinical neuropsychology and a substantial portion of taught content is provided by clinicians working within the NHS. In addition to taught content, the degree also involves a research project. Many of the programme units are provided in a block format, over a single week.

This MSc is suitable for students intending to become clinical psychologists, as well as those who wish to pursue a career involving contact with patients with neuropsychological deficits (eg head injury, dementia, stroke, rehabilitation). It also provides an excellent grounding for students wishing to move on to further academic research through a PhD.

The programme content includes the principles of assessment within clinical and neuropsychology, coverage of a range of neuropsychological disorders and pathologies affecting the brain, techniques for studying the human brain, principles of treatment and rehabilitation following brain damage. The programme focuses on evidence-based practice within a clinical context. There is a comprehensive range of additional structured tutorials in which students can discuss clinical practice issues with several subject matter experts working within the NHS.

A novel feature of our clinical training is that all lectures are broadcast live online, so some can be viewed without having to travel to lecture theatres. In addition, all lectures are recorded and can be replayed at any time. Students will have access to a large range of recorded clinical case reviews, which supplement the learning experience.

Programme structure

Core units
-Functional Neuroanatomy, Neuroscience Methods and Issues in Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Issues in Neuropsychology
Part B: Functional Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience Methods

-Applied Clinical Neuropsychology and Principles of Assessment (30 credits)
Part A: Assessment in Clinical Neuropsychology
Part B: Applied Neuropsychology

-Development, Rehabilitation and Evidence-based Neuropsychology and Principles of Clinical Statistics (30 credits)
Part A: Development and Rehabilitation
Part B: Evidence-Based Neuropsychology

-Theoretical and Clinical Neuropsychology (30 credits)
Part A: Clinical Neuropsychology in Practice
Part B: Theoretical Neuropsychology

-Dissertation (60 credits)

Careers

This degree supports those who wish to pursue a career in clinical psychology or clinical neuropsychology. It delivers core skills that will enhance prospects of employment as an assistant psychologist, applications to undertake training in clinical psychology and those who wish to undertake clinical research in an academic environment.

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This diploma provides you with training in clinical neuropsychology and a substantial portion of the taught content is provided by clinicians working within the National Health Service. The training is identical to that provided to UK-registered clinicians who want to specialise in clinical neuropsychology, and meets the British Psychological Society requirements for the knowledge dimension of the Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QiCN).

It provides an excellent basis for anyone wishing to pursue a career working with patients with neuropsychological deficits. Alternatively, the diploma can lead to further doctoral research. It would also be of interest to international students looking to obtain specialist training in clinical neuropsychology.

There is a strong focus on patient care, diagnostics and management of a range of neurological conditions. As well as working within the acute hospital trust, the department provides input to specialist inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for people with acquired brain injury. All lectures are broadcast live online using Adobe Connect and can be viewed at a later date. Some units are provided in a block of teaching (ie one unit over a single week) while others are delivered weekly.

Bristol-based study

This mode of delivery is designed to suit people with professional or other commitments. 80 credits of taught content are delivered in four separate teaching blocks, each lasting a week. All content in these blocks is recorded but students are expected to attend these weeks in person. The remaining 40 credits are delivered through weekly online lectures, presentations and seminars.

Distance learning (international students only) option

All aspects of delivery are identical except that lectures are viewed online. However, we also offer distance learners regular additional online sessions providing enhanced academic and pastoral support.

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Clinical and Health psychology involves applying psychological understanding to difficulties connected with mental or physical health problems. Using this understanding, clinical psychologists assess and treat people of all ages and ability levels who are experiencing psychological distress, behavioural problems or related issues. Students taking the MSc will be introduced to the theory and knowledge that underpins effective practice in clinical psychology, will explore this in relation to a range of conditions, will gain an understanding of the range of research methods used by clinical psychologists, and will conduct their own research project in a relevant area.
How the course can further your career progression

This course will be of particular interest to:
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical or health psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training.
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical and health psychology and who have already gained relevant work experience. Completing the MSc course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training.
- graduates in psychology or closely related disciplines who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical or helath psychology. The MSc course is accredited as providing an appropriate research training for those wishing to progress to a PhD or to employment in a research post.
- qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical psychology.

Clinical psychology training in the UK involves the completion of a three-year training programme leading to a doctorate in clinical psychology and eligibility to apply for chartered clinical psychologist status. The training is funded by the National Health Service (NHS) and almost all trainees go on to work in the NHS after qualifying. Entry to these programmes is highly competitive and applicants must have good academic and research skills as well as relevant work experience, usually two years in a paid, full-time assistant psychologist position or equivalent. The MSc aims to provide students with a profile of academic knowledge and research skills which, combined with relevant work experience, will equip them to make a credible application for clinical psychology training, either in the UK or elsewhere.

About the School of Psychology
The School of Psychology at Bangor, which was ranked in the Top 20 in the UK in the most recent Research Exercise Framework with 89% of research rated either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', brings together a large group of outstanding scientists with international research reputations in clinical psychology, neuropsychology and clinical and cognitive neuroscience. A number of staff also hold appointments as consultant psychologists or medical consultants with the NHS and contribute to clinical practice as well as to the training of clinical psychologists, medical students and NHS staff. The School runs its own clinical psychology training programme, leading to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Key research strengths within the clinical psychology domain include dementia, neuropsychology and rehabilitation, learning disability, developmental disorders, addictions, and cognitive-behavioural approaches. Close links with other departments and with NHS services produce tremendous opportunities for collaborative clinical psychology research. The School supports the practical implementation of research findings to improve patient care by hosting groups such as the Dementia Services Development Centre Wales.

The School has an extensive library of psychological tests and measures. Participant recruitment is facilitated through the availability of research panels for neurological patients and people with dementia, as well as student and community participation panels, supported by the School’s full-time patient co-ordinator. The School has a range of specialist laboratories and researchers in the School use a wide range of the latest techniques for understanding brain-behaviour relationships, including functional brain mapping with event related potentials (ERP), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

The School has a vibrant, diverse postgraduate community. Students on our MSc programmes are drawn from a range of backgrounds and nationalities. The School is known for its friendly and informal atmosphere, which combined with excellent facilities helps to ensure that studying here is a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Course Structure
The course includes three components: content modules, research methods modules, and a research thesis. Content and methods modules are all 20 credit modules and the research thesis is worth 60 credits. Students achieving 120 credits on the taught modules, but not completing a research thesis, may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma. The content modules are designed to provide an in-depth look at theory, evidence and practice in clinical psychology.

The course lasts one full calendar year if taken full-time and is also available part-time. During Semester 1 and Semester 2 you will combine taught modules with work on your research project. During the summer period all your time is devoted to completing and writing up the research project.

A variety of teaching approaches are used including lectures, case presentations, small-group sessions and seminars, and individual or group supervision. Assessment will include coursework and examinations, and the research thesis.

Career Prospects
This course will be of particular interest to psychology graduates aiming for a career in clinical psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training. For graduates who already have relevant work experience the course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training. It is also an excellent preparation for graduates who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical psychology and for qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical and health psychology.

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This exciting MSc reflects the broad-ranging and strong neuroscience research profile of our Department, equipping you with a rigorous grounding in the theory and applications of cognitive, clinical, and developmental neuroscience- http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/msc-cognitive-clinical-neuroscience/

We offer two pathways on this Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience (CCN) MSc:

Cognitive Neuropsychology pathway

The Cognitive Neuropsychology pathway has been developed in partnership with the Blackheath Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre and Neurodisability Service. The emphasis of this pathway will be on research and clinical aspects of cognitive neuroscience.

You'll take six modules, including a research dissertation:

Clinical and Cognitive Neuropsychology
Developmental Cognitive Neuropsychology
Biological Aspects of Brain Functions
Methods and Techniques in Neuroscience
Statistics
Research Project

Methods and Techniques pathway

The emphasis of the Methods and Techniques pathway will be on practical hands-on training in methods and techniques used in cognitive neuroscience research.

You'll take six modules, including a research dissertation:

Advanced Methods and Techniques
Clinical and Cognitive Neuropsychology
Biological Aspects of Brain Functions
Methods and Techniques in Neuroscience
Statistics
Research Project

"It has been great to see so many of my fellow peers get onto doctoral training – I think this really highlights the strength and quality of the Goldsmiths CCN course. I am very honoured to have been offered the opportunity to complete it."
Romena, former student

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Val West.

Structure

Cognitive Neuropsychology pathway

This programme is intended primarily for graduates in Psychology, or closely related disciplines, who want to pursue further academic research (MPhil/PhD) in experimental psychology or neuroscience; to teach in higher education; or to develop further knowledge for clinical careers involving work with brain-damaged patients or people suffering from developmental cognitive disorders.

During the course of the MSc, there are opportunities for some students to gain highly relevant clinical experience through case demonstrations and voluntary/paid work at the Blackheath Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre and Neurodisability Service or in one of the several clinical sites we collaborate with. In some cases, there may also be the possibility of carrying out research for your dissertation in these clinical settings.

Assessment:
The programme is assessed by written examinations, coursework, an oral presentation, journal club and a research dissertation.

Methods and Techniques pathway

This programme is intended primarily for graduates in Psychology, or closely related disciplines, who want to pursue further academic research (MPhil/PhD) in neuroscience and to teach in higher education. During the MSc, students will receive highly relevant hands-on training in essential methods and techniques used in contemporary cognitive neuroscience research.

Research Project (60 credits)
The project requires you to carry out an empirically or theoretically based psychological project, which can be in any area of Cognitive Neuropsychology, Development Cognitive Neuropsychology, Brain stimulation or Neuroimaging (EEG). You will give an oral presentation of your project in addition to providing a full written report.

Assessment:
The programme is assessed by written examinations, coursework, an oral presentation, journal club and a research dissertation.

Skills

The programme will provide you with knowledge of theory and practical issues relevant to neuroscience and clinical psychology in the UK health services and research centres. The two pathways allow students to shape their study plan according to their interests and career objectives. You will have the opportunity to develop your own research project under the supervision of a member of staff and relevant external clinical/research sector staff.

Careers

This programme is intended primarily for graduates in Psychology, or closely related disciplines.

The Cognitive Neuropsychology pathway is aimed at students who want to develop further knowledge in clinical cognitive disordersto apply to UK clinical doctorate programs or to students who want to pursue further academic research (MPhil/PhD) in experimental psychology or neuroscience.

The Methods and Techniques pathway is mainly addressed to students who want to apply for a research doctorate (MPhil/PhD) in cognitive neuroscience and related disciplines.

During the course of the MSc there are opportunities for some students (Cognitive Neuropsychology pathway) to gain highly relevant clinical experience through case demonstrations and undertaking clinical activity at the Blackheath Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre and Neurodisability Service or in one of the several clinical sites we collaborate with. In some cases, there may also be the possibility of carrying out research for your dissertation in these clinical settings. Students on the Methods and Techniques pathway will be able to acquire valuable “hands-on” experience and build a research portfolio by means of ad-hoc tutorials, research projects and workshops on some of the most recent cognitive neuroscience techniques (mainly TMS, tDCS, EEG).

Funding

Please visit http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/fees-funding/ for details.

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Programme description

This programme provides an opportunity to undertake intensive training in human cognitive neuropsychology by working closely with our Human Cognitive Neuroscience Research Unit, a group of internationally recognised cognitive psychologists, clinical and academic neuropsychologists including Dr Sharon Abrahams and Professors Sergio Della Sala and Robert Logie.

Teaching follows an integrated approach with courses on neuropsychology, cognitive psychology, clinical neuropsychology and brain imaging. You will also receive training in generic research methods within psychology.

Programme structure

This programme comprises two semesters of taught compulsory and optional courses, followed by a dissertation. Optional courses within the area of human cognitive neuroscience can be selected to tailor the programme to your interests. You may also choose your optional courses from a range in associated disciplines, such as individual differences, informatics and psycholinguistics, with permission from the programme director.

Compulsory courses

Psychological Research Skills
Univariate and Multivariate Statistics and Methodology using R
Specialist techniques in psychological research
Current topics in psychological research

Option courses

Brain Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience
Clinical Neuropsychology
Consciousness and Perceptual Awareness
Disorders of Language Functions
Eye Movements and Visual Cognition
Frontal Lobe Functions
Human Cognitive Neuroscience
Multisensory Integration
Working Memory
Imaging Mind and Brain
Dissertation

The dissertation involves conducting a research project under staff supervision. You will produce a written report, which describes your research and interprets your findings.

If you are looking to complete a research dissertation in clinical based environments (interacting with NHS patients) or schools / nurseries, you may be asked to apply for a Research Passport by your supervisor, or you may select a clinical research project that is already in progress within the University.

Research Passports

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this programme, you will have gained:

specialist knowledge within the fields of human cognitive neuropsychology and integrated areas of study, in addition to training in psychological research methods
an understanding of clinical neuropsychology (assessment and rehabilitation of patients with neurological disorders), brain imaging, cognitive psychology, and cognitive neuropsychology and critical awareness of cognitive and neuropsychological research and its application to clinical practice
a foundation for advanced research within human cognitive neuropsychology
a comprehensive understanding of the basic principles of research design and application
competency in applying a range of methods and research tools
skills in research management, including managing data and conducting and disseminating research in ways consistent with both professional practice and the normal principles of research ethics

Career opportunities

The programme is suitable for graduate psychologists or those who have studied or worked in related disciplines who wish to pursue a research-oriented career within cognitive neuropsychology (providing the foundations for later application to a doctoral training programme) or a clinically oriented career in neuropsychology.

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Programme description

First taught in 1959, this advanced practitioner programme is one of the longest established of its kind in the UK.

The standard qualification for a career in clinical psychology, a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology will entitle you to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council and chartered status with the British Psychological Society.

You'll be trained to an advanced level in the use of psychological interventions across a variety of settings, and gain competencies in the application of a range of therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy, and other approaches.

In addition to compulsory competencies in psychological therapies and clinical case management, you will also achieve advanced competencies in consultation and supervision, service development and governance and applied psychology research and evaluation.

The programme is constantly updated to ensure it reflects current practice, and you’ll be taught by lecturers who, as practitioners, are able to convey the most up-to-date methods and theories.

Thanks to our partnership with NHS Education for Scotland and a number of Scottish NHS boards, you’ll be employed throughout your training as a trainee clinical psychologist. Half of your training will be clinical practice-based and you will complete a number of clinical practice placements, usually within your employing NHS Health Board area, covering different specialties and service areas.

Programme structure

Your learning will be spread across six blocks, spaced throughout your years of training, and interspersed with supervised NHS placements in linked areas.

Placements cover a wide range of work in psychiatric, general, learning disability and rehabilitation hospitals, both in primary care settings and in the community.

Year 1 courses:

Clinical Psychology I
Adult Mental Health
Intellectual Disabilities
Research 1

Year 2 courses:

Clinical Psychology II
Children, Adolescents and Families
Neuropsychology and Older Adults
Research 2

Year 3 courses:

Advanced Practice (seminars covering different specialist populations, e.g. psychosis, trauma, eating disorders, and therapies, such as ACT, IPT, CAT, Mentalization, Schema Therapy)

Learning outcomes

The core purpose of the clinical psychology training programme is to train clinical psychologists to doctorate level, which allows trainees to impart the range of competences necessary to become eligible to apply for chartered status within the British Psychological Society and to apply for Health Professions Council registration as a Practitioner/Clinical Psychologist.

The programme provides sufficient experiences to equip trainees with the skills, knowledge and core values of the profession to work effectively within the NHS with a range of clients and in different settings using various psychological interventions.

Competent trainees will:

-be able to apply psychological skills, knowledge and values to clinical problems; that is, trainees will be able to assess, formulate, evaluate and solve problems using a range of psychological theories and knowledge
-be able to apply knowledge of the different areas of clinical psychology to form a basis for working in any of the current applied fields of clinical psychology
-have practical, clinical and research skills, knowledge and values that will enable them to pursue a career in any area of clinical psychology and with clients from a diverse range of backgrounds and in academic, health or community settings
-be skilled at communicating effectively with clients, and with staff from other disciplines and to work within multi-disciplinary teams as a clinician, supervisor or consultant
-be skilled in the knowledge and values required to work effectively with clients from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds
-understand the social context within which psychological problems may develop, and how environments may be modified in an attempt to ameliorate problems
-understand the need for regular evaluation of their work, be skilled in self-reflection and self-awareness, understanding the need for continuing professional development after qualification

Career opportunities

Once registered with the Health Professions Council and the British Psychological Society, you will be eligible to apply for employment as a clinical psychologist in the NHS or with other organisations, and commence a rewarding career in this stimulating field.

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This Masters programme in Applied Neuropsychology is designed for those who have qualified in clinical psychology overseas.

Why this programme

◾The programme has been developed in partnership with NHS Education for Scotland and offers specialist knowledge for clinical psychologists working in the area of clinical neuropsychology.
◾The University has a strong tradition of research in clinical neuroscience and neuropsychology.

Programme structure

The majority of students on this programme come to Glasgow for a full year of study. This will provide you with the opportunity to carry out a research project which will usually be based in one of our research groups.

All our lectures are given by subject specialists, including clinical academics at the University as well as many other specialists from around the UK and occasionally internationally.

You will take a total of eight courses, arranged into blocks of teaching. Each teaching block lasts two weeks and covers two courses.

Courses
◾Context and perspectives in clinical neuropsychology
◾Professional issues and research methods
◾Neuroscience
◾Epilepsy, seizure and sleep disorders
◾Acquired brain injury and disorders of memory, attention and executive functioning
◾Degenerative conditions
◾Stroke and disorders of perception, language, praxis and calculation
◾Paediatric neurology and neuropsychology.

Plus a research project for MSc students.

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Learn how different brain functions contribute to cognition, mediate social interaction, and determine mental health, well-being and psychiatric illness.

Who is it for?

This Masters is ideal for those who have an undergraduate degree in Psychology or a related discipline and would like to build more knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. Students will also be well-equipped should they wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.

Objectives

This Masters degree bridges three research and clinical disciplines:
-Cognitive neuroscience (the study of human brain functions such as memory, perception and language).
-Clinical neuroscience (the understanding of neurological, psychological or psychiatric illness via their neural and cognitive antecedents).
-Social neuroscience (the investigation of brain processes that help us communicate, feel, learn and interact with others).

The major aim of this programme is to provide you with a thorough grounding in the neuroscience that underpins human cognitive brain function, clinical, social and affective interaction, and neuropathology.

Teaching will comprise of seminars, lectures, computing and statistics classes, and supervision of an individual research project. Your learning experience during the programme will be enhanced by an invited speaker’s programme of external experts who work in clinical, social or cognitive neuroscience.

Academic facilities

You will have access to all the facilities and laboratories in the Psychology Department. Our members have experience with a wide range of neuroscientific techniques, including neuropsychological testing, psychophysics and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI).

We have particular strengths in the use of Electroencephalography (EEG), Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Electric Stimulation (a weak current applied to the scalp), in addition to measures of human behaviour (e.g. response times, response errors, and eye movements) and physiological measures (e.g. galvanic skin response and heart rate).

We test neurologically normal individuals, special populations (e.g. people with synesthesia) and people with expertise or acquired skills (e.g. dancers, musicians, athletes), as well as people with brain damage (e.g. neglect or split-brain patients), psychiatric diagnoses (e.g. schizophrenia), sensory deficits (e.g. visual and hearing impairments) and developmental disorders (e.g. dyslexia or autism).

Placements

We help facilitate Clinical placements and are able and offer Research placements within our department.

Clinical placements: Center for Psychological Wellbeing and Neuroscience (CPWN) in collaboration with City and Hackney Mind (CHM).

Teaching and learning

Teaching will be comprised of lectures, seminars, group work and discussions, workshops and tutorials, reports, computing and statistics classes and the individual research dissertation.

You will undertake independent study, supported by the teaching and learning team, and will receive detailed feedback on your coursework. You will be provided with assessment and grade-related criteria which will outline your intended learning outcomes, along with the skills, knowledge and attitudes you are expected to demonstrate in order for you to complete an assessment successfully. You will also be assigned a personal tutor as your primary contact, who will advise you on academic matters and monitor your progress through the programme.

You will find a supportive vibrant research environment in the Department. The course is taught by academics, who are internationally recognised experts in their field with different backgrounds in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience.

Assessment

Your learning will be assessed through essays, examinations, oral presentations, research methods projects and interpretation of statistical analyses, formal research proposals and a dissertation.

Modules

The programme consists of eight taught modules worth 15 credits each with around 30-34 hours of face-to-face contact, supported by online resources and an empirical research project (worth 60 credits).

You will learn about the latest advances in clinical, social and cognitive neuroscience and develop an appreciation of the reciprocal nature of research and practice in these domains. For example how insights from functional neuroimaging inform our understanding of neurological disorders and how clinical observations inform neurocognitive modelling.

Course structure
-Principles of Neuroscience: Brain anatomy, techniques and paradigms
-Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
-Mental Health, Well-being and Neuroscience
-Fundamental Processes in Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology I
-Fundamental Processes in Cognitive Neuroscience & Neuropsychology II
-Social Cognition and the Social Brain
-Statistical models and Research Methods and Programming
-Research Dissertation
-Invited speakers programme

Career prospects

This course will provide you with knowledge and skills highly valued both in academic research and the clinical professions. The MSc is an ideal platform from which to progress to PhD studies, particularly in Cognitive or Social Neuroscience. You will also be well-equipped should you wish to undertake further professional training in Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire in this programme are highly valuable, whether you choose to pursue further research or an applied occupation. They will enhance your employability prospects in a wide range of sectors including the pharmaceutical industry, neuromarketing, the computing industry, science and the media, science and the arts, business or education.

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The MSc in Principles of Applied Neuropsychology examines the uses of neuropsychology in the clinical world. Studying the way the brain works is crucial to psychology and the understanding of human behaviour.

Neuropsychology is central to the debate about the spark of individuality each human shows. This course looks at social cognition and affective neuroscience, as well as studying the emerging field of the neuropsychology of psychopathology. The course is an employability-centred extension to an undergraduate psychology degree. It is focused on Neuropsychology, but is suitable for any student interested in preparing for an eventual career as a professional psychologist.

COURSE STRUCTURE AND CONTENT

The course has four 30-credit core modules and a 60-credit dissertation module. These modules are Neuropsychology, Social Neuropsychology of Mental Health, Neuropsychological Rehabilitation and Issues in Professional Practice. To gain the MSc you must complete all four taught modules and the dissertation module. There is also a Postgraduate Certificate, gained by successfully completing two taught modules, and a Postgraduate Diploma for the successful completion of four taught modules. The course runs on one afternoon a week to allow you time to obtain relevant practical experience, should you wish to do so. You can study on a full-time or part-time basis, subject to a maximum of three years full-time or five-years part-time for the MSc.

MODULES

Issues in Professional Practice
This module introduces students to the principles of applied psychology and the processes of recovery and rehabilitation. It focuses on the core skills expected of a practitioner of applied psychology: assessment; formulation; intervention; evaluation; communication skills; and self-management skills. The embedded research skills in this module relate to the evaluation of clinical practice.

Social Neuropsychology of Mental Health
This module includes a neuropsychological perspective on mental health problems. It features a series of lectures on psychosis, affective disorders, fear disorders, principles of cognitive behavioural therapy, and basic pharmacology. We also be looking at the relationship between psychopathology and criminality. The embedded research methods deal with applications to ethics committees, and performing a systematic literature review.

Advanced Neuropsychology
This module provides a clinical approach to degenerative disorders, ageing, communication disorders visual disorders, and childhood developmental disorders. The module focuses on the functions and dysfunctions of the frontal lobes, including the concepts of self and other. The embedded research methods include researching a patient population, and using test batteries.

Neuropsychological Rehabilitation
Neuropsychological rehabilitation exists to enable people to regain their footing in social and occupational spheres after brain injury. It does this in many ways, such as emotionally, functionally and cognitively. This module offers a broad theoretical perspective of the different methods of rehabilitation available for a range of disorders. We aim to provide not just theory but also guidance as to how you communicate that theory to patients, clients and other professionals.

Dissertation
This is the opportunity to investigate an area of neuropsychology of individual interest. As part of this module you are required to submit a 5,000-7,000 word paper ready for publication in a specified journal, based on your research. You also have to demonstrate the ability to keep a detailed research log. The research undertaken by students must have a neuropsychological focus.

TEACHING METHODS AND RESOURCES

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, individual tutorials, small and large group work, lab work and neuropsychological testing experience. There will be guest speakers from relevant employers as well as research talks from existing practitioners.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The course is centred on eventual employment as a professional psychologist. We aim to enhance your skills as a scientist- practitioner, and provide a step forward to meeting the criteria for assistant psychologist posts. The course also offers practical writing skills necessary for communicating complex scientific ideas to both a lay and specialist audience. The course is also suitable for people considering a research PhD.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

We have selected assessments with the aim to maximise experiences that will help with further study. For example, the dissertation element must be written in the form of a paper that is ready for submission in an established journal. In fact, we will encourage the submission of a research paper as the culmination of the Master’s experience. We also offer assessments in less formal writing for magazines or newspapers. We aim to consolidate your literature searching skills, something that is crucial to get right for a PhD thesis and for writing grant proposals.

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