Masters Degrees (Clinical Psychology)

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Abnormal and Clinical Psychology at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

Clinical psychology focuses on the challenges faced by people with clinical, mental or physical (neuropsychological) health conditions. The role of the clinical psychologist is to work with these individuals and attempt to improve their quality of life. The Master’s degree in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology at Swansea is designed to equip students with an advanced understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology in healthcare settings. The primary purpose of the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course is to allow students to gain knowledge and experience to enhance their suitability for professional clinical training (i.e. a three year DCl in Clinical Psychology programme at a BPS accredited training centre; see http://careers.bps.org.uk/area/clinical).

Entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate training programme is extremely competitive, with candidates usually expected to have acquired training and experience beyond degree level. We have a proven track record of helping our students progress towards clinical psychology training, as well as roles in a range of other clinical mental health-related occupations. Our MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology alumni have also secured NHS clinical based placements, providing valuable experience for those seeking to attain Assistant Clinical Psychologist positions.

The majority of our teaching is carried out by practicing and/or qualified Clinical Psychologists and related professionals, ensuring that students are learning from those with direct experience of professional challenges.

Course modules are assessed using a range of different approaches, including written examinations, essays, presentations and clinical case studies.

Study on the course can be undertaken either full time (1 year) or part time (2 years) basis, with teaching condensed into two weekdays to more easily accommodate part-time students and for relevant experience to be gained alongside the degree. Taught modules are provided in the first two semesters, with the research project typically undertaken over the summer.

Students on the MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology typically include:

* UK and international psychology graduates seeking positions as Assistant Psychologists (both in the UK and abroad) as part of their journey towards becoming a BPS Chartered Clinical Psychologist.

* Psychology graduates aiming to work in related fields of applied psychology and other areas of clinical mental health.

* Healthcare and other clinical professionals looking to expand their understanding of particular areas of abnormal and clinical psychology.

* Psychology graduates who have relevant work experience to apply for further clinical training, but who need to enhance their academic and research skills.

* Psychology graduates aiming to secure a PhD by Research in a clinically applied area.

The MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology is unique in the range of modules the programme offers:

• Eating Disorders

• Psychosis

• Personality and Sexual Disorder

• Clinical Neuropsychology

• Psychotherapy

• Statistical and Research Methods

• Affective and Somatoform Disorders

• Applied Behaviour Analysis

• Coping with Chronic Disease

• Psychopharmacology for Clinical Psychologists

Students will also complete a substantial research project in their chosen field of study.

Here's what students had to say about the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology MSc:

“Completing the MSc has been very beneficial, as in addition to improving my academic knowledge and skills, as well as confidence, it has enabled me to quickly secure employment in this field”. Sam (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2013-14)

“The level of expertise of the lecturers is second to none” Katie (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2011-12)

“An outstanding and highly interesting MSc program” Vasilis, international student from Greece (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“Thanks to my masters, I am in such a good placement in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a multi-speciality hospital's Cardiology Unit” Phoram, international student from India (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“The MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology provided me with an excellent theoretical knowledge of a wide variety of psychological approaches” – Ruth (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2008-09)

“I'm now an Assistant Psychologist in Cardiff, and I do not think I would have had a chance of getting such a post if I didn't have the MSc. I'm really glad I did it!” - Bryn (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2008-09)

“The MSc helped me to get my first assistant post and provided me with a good academic basis to pursue a career in clinical psychology. I am now undertaking the DClin Psych course in Oxford!” - Nicola (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2007-08)

The Department of Psychology at Swansea University is a thriving research led department that provides a friendly, supporting learning environment with instruction from world-class researchers. Our consistent ambition is to provide outstanding excellence of teaching and learning for all our students – as demonstrated by a recent Teaching Quality Assessment national audit that judged our teaching as ‘Excellent’. Moreover, the research caliber of our group has also been demonstrated. For example, in The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, we were one of only four psychology departments to achieve a 100% 4* rating (maximum score possible) for the reach and significance of its work.

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This programme has been specifically designed for those intending to pursue a career in clinical psychology and to apply for a place on the professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, but it is also ideal for those interested in a research career or PhD in the area of clinical psychology and mental health. The programme enables students to gain detailed knowledge about modern theories and models in relation to psychopathology and psychological assessment as well as about effective psychological interventions and therapies. It also provides broad research training in quantitative and qualitative research, and offers education about the role of professional clinical psychologists along with training in essential clinical skills. The programme includes a Research Apprenticeship in clinical psychology which is a particularly attractive module enabling students to gain experience with professional research in clinical psychology.

-Designed to strengthen the research competence and academic profile of those intending to apply for professional training in clinical psychology
-Offers broad postgraduate research training in quantitative and qualitative research methods relevant to clinical psychology and mental health in general
-Includes a Research Apprenticeship in Clinical Psychology
-Provides education about the role of clinical psychologists as well as training in some essential professional clinical skills
-Uses a blend of adult learning approaches (i.e. lectures, seminars, group work, workshops) to engage students with the content of the taught modules

Why choose this course?

The main educational aims of the programme are to provide you with a thorough knowledge about clinical psychology as an academic and professional discipline, and to develop your research competence in a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods of particular relevance to clinical psychology. Core knowledge areas such as psychopathology, psychological assessment and various types of psychological intervention are each taught in specific modules. You will be introduced to leading theories or models in each field and the scientific evidence on which they are based will be critically discussed. Important research paradigms and controversies dominating current scientific debates within clinical psychology will be presented, and you will learn and practice how to critically appraise published research.

You will receive extensive training in a range of essential research skills and we will be discussing various types of research design for investigating the aetiology of mental health problems, for evaluating the effectiveness of psychological therapies and for auditing mental health services. The research training also includes advanced methods of statistical data analysis with exercises in SPSS and you will learn how to professionally report and communicate the findings. Qualitative research methods, for example, Grounded Theory will be taught in a specialist module and you will learn to use software for the coding and interpretation of transcripts. Finally, each student will be allocated to a senior researcher for a Research Apprenticeship, a particularly valuable learning experience enabling you to prepare an impressive MSc Research Project which will be your most important academic achievement of the programme.

The programme also includes a module Professional Clinical Skills introducing you to the role and competencies of professional clinical psychologists within mental health care settings as well as professional standards and ethical considerations. It also provides you with training in some essential clinical skills. More specifically, the programme aims are to:
-Provide students with in-depth knowledge about current theories of psychopathology covering both dimensional and diagnostic approaches for conceptualizing, defining, observing and assessing behavioural and mental indicators of psychopathology
-Provide students with detailed knowledge about psychiatric classification systems for mental health and personality problems as well as alternatives such as formulation
-Provide students with thorough knowledge about different kinds of effective psychological interventions for the treatment or prevention of mental health and behavioural problems
-Educate and train students in various types of quantitative and qualitative research in the area of clinical psychology, their methodological justification as well as criteria of validity to critically evaluate strengths and weaknesses of research proposals or published research
-Provide education about professional standards for clinical psychologists as well as training in professional skills

Professional Accreditations

Please note that this MSc does not replace an accredited doctoral training programme in Clinical Psychology, nor will it guarantee entry to such a programme or provide a professional qualification in clinical psychology.

Careers

This course is ideal for those considering a professional or research career in clinical psychology and wish to strengthen their academic CV.

Teaching methods

We have our own dedicated postgraduate teaching rooms. Teaching includes lectures, seminars, practicals in class, workshops, group work, simulation exercises and individual supervision.

A blend of different assessment methods will be used. Part of the modules is assessed by exams, but the majority of the assignments constitute coursework such essays, data analysis reports, a written paper critique and oral presentations.

Structure

Modules
-Professional Clinical Skills I
-Psychological Assessment
-Psychological Interventions
-Psychopathology
-Qualitative Research Methods
-Research Apprenticeship in Clinical Psychology
-Research Methods and Data Analysis in Clinical Psychology
-Research Project in Clinical Psychology

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This MSc programme is provided in collaboration with the Salomons Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, which is part of Canterbury Christ Church University. The MSc is designed for psychology graduates who are considering pursuing training in clinical psychology, and includes the provision of specialised teaching from qualified clinical psychologists.

At the end of the course you will have gained an in-depth knowledge of theory, practice and research in clinical psychology, a discipline that involves the application of the scientific theory and principles of psychology to help in the understanding and alleviation of psychological distress, and in promoting well-being.

The aim is to help prepare you for potentially undertaking doctoral training in clinical psychology, or training in other mental health disciplines, and as such the programme is intended to provide a stepping stone towards a rewarding potential career in clinical psychology or mental health.

Clinical psychology has an evidence-based emphasis, with a focus on a scientist-practitioner model and a strong emphasis on research, and the training in research methods on this programme will offer you the opportunity to engage in sophisticated, postgraduate level research in clinically-related areas of psychology.

It should be noted that this MSc does not form part of a doctoral qualification in clinical psychology or form part of a professional qualification as a clinical psychologist, and does not guarantee students entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate programme. Furthermore, completion of this MSc is not a requirement for entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate programme. However, clinical psychology is a highly sought after career, and it is intended that this programme will provide valuable learning in preparation for seeking clinical psychology training.

Who Is This Course For?

The programme is designed for psychology graduates who are considering pursuing training in clinical psychology, or other mental health-related disciplines. As such the programme is intended to provide a stepping stone towards a rewarding potential career in clinical psychology or mental health.

What Will I Study?

You will develop a sound and critical understanding of the theory and application of the core theoretical models on which clinical psychology draws. This will include a knowledge of explanatory theoretical models of the development and maintenance of a range of presenting psychological problems that people may experience throughout the lifespan, as well as critical consideration of approaches to the classification of psychological problems. You will also gain a sound understanding of clinical psychology assessment, formulation, intervention and evaluation across a range of theoretical models, client groups, presenting problems and organisational contexts.

In addition, you will develop a reflective and critical understanding of developmental, social, cultural, and organisational contexts and their impact on individuals and the delivery of psychological services. This includes the importance of being aware of diversity when providing clinical assessment and intervention, as well as an understanding of the importance and nature of service-user perspectives.

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The MSc in Applied Clinical Psychology has been specifically designed to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in core theoretical, methodological, and empirical areas of clinical psychology. This programme is aimed at graduates who wish to strengthen their academic credentials in preparation for a career in clinical psychology and is taught by academics/research experts in their field, HCPC Registered Psychologists, clinicians across a wide range of specialities, and service users and/or carers. You will also have the opportunity to undertake and be assisted in finding a clinically relevant placement.

With one day of teaching (Tuesdays), delivery is designed to support those with full-time jobs or family commitments, and full-time (one year) and part-time (two years) study options are available.

DBS CHECKS

This course will involve access to children and/or vulnerable adults. You will be required to obtain a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (formerly termed CRB) and we will guide you through this process.

INDUSTRY LINKS

Clinical and other HCPC Registered Psychologists alongside a broad range of clinicians will contribute to the delivery of this course; many of these work or have worked within the NHS, but we also have links with clinicians in private practice. This unique mix of professionals is reflected in the content of the course, where you will learn about the similarities and differences of working clinically within the NHS vs. private practice.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

We aim to provide the best possible facilities for our students. The School is based in the multi-million pound purpose-built Darwin Building, which includes an extensive range of state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, including: a Brain Imaging Laboratory, Observational Suite equipped with one-way mirrors and video cameras; established Health Psychology Suite; and eye tracking equipment. The School has a thriving community of PhD and MSc students and has links with regional universities, NHS hospital trusts, schools and community groups.

The core theoretical basis of clinical psychology will be presented via lectures and supported seminars. Seminars or workshops are used to explore key issues from the curriculum, both to facilitate understanding and develop skills; you are encouraged to prepare material in advance of the sessions, to exchange information as part of a peer network, and to reflect upon their understanding. Independent study will also be incorporated, as well as research supervision to support the production of a high-quality research project that will contribute to the field of clinical psychology.

The course is assessed through a mixture of exams, coursework, statistical assignments, and an advanced research dissertation.

The taught component of the course will take place on a Tuesday to support students with full-time jobs or family commitments, and it may be completed over 1 year (full-time) or 2 or more years (part-time).

FURTHER INFORMATION

The MSc in Applied Clinical Psychology is intended for graduates who wish to strengthen their knowledge base, academic credentials and applied skills in core areas of clinical psychology. The course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of:
-The theory and evidence that underpins the application of psychology to psychological distress/conditions across the lifespan
-Core applied skills of the clinical psychologist, including communication, assessment, formulation and treatment
-Professional issues and practice in clinical psychology
-Key research methods and statistics used by clinical psychologists and their application to clinically relevant topics and settings
-The application of clinical psychology in health and forensic settings, or in specialist areas such as clinical neuropsychology

Advanced research skills and competencies are developed further through a project supported by an experienced researcher within the programme team, where you will be given the opportunity to apply your skills to a relevant topic in clinical psychology.

The applied focus of the course places a key emphasis on supporting placement opportunities for our students; with staff assisting you in finding a suitable placement, and ensuring you work on a project that is relevant to clinical psychology (e.g., service evaluation)*. The course also targets your development of applied skills through embedding your core knowledge directly into clinical contexts within role play and case study review. A critical area in your skill development will be working on developing your competence in reflection and clinical communication, learning how to adapt your style for different client groups. You will also be encouraged to explore applied approaches in specialized areas such as neuropsychological assessment.

From the very beginning our course has embedded service user/carer perspectives from course development, through to delivery and assessment. This is supported by UCLan’s service user/carer team (Comensus), made up of individuals who use their own personal narratives from a wide range of psychological and neurological difficulties. They will support you in exploring your involvement in a range of services, and they will share their experiences with you in a safe, supportive environment.

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This course allows you to understand important areas of clinical psychology. You learn through expert-led clinical, health and forensic psychology, cultural and historical perspectives on mental health issues, and research apprenticeships. Colleagues in the NHS provide an introductory course in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) through distance learning.

The Foundations in Clinical Psychology MSc is aimed at students who have had little exposure to clinical psychology in their first degree and for intercalating MBBS students. It provides you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for careers in the clinical psychology sectors.

The course provides you with a sound basis to apply for an assistant psychologist post. It will also provide the necessary academic and research skills for you to apply for further training, if you have the relevant work experience. This might include vocational training eg doctoral training in Clinical Psychology, training as a Forensic Psychologist or Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programmes.

You also benefit from this course if you are a Psychology graduate who is keen to pursue a research career in the clinical aspects of psychology, including clinically-oriented PhDs.

As a student on this course you will gain knowledge and understanding of:
-Theories, research methods, history, culture of clinical psychology
-Assessing and synthesising information and formulating arguments
-Professional contexts in which clinical psychologists work
-Ethical issues and legislation
-Conditions, aetiology, maintaining factors, interventions and therapies associated with clinical psychology
-The link between stress, health and illness

Facilities

The School of Psychology provides high quality facilities to all our students, researchers and staff. We are located in the Ridley Building where you will have access to a postgraduate resources room with networked computers and printer.

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The UCL Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is the largest professional training course for Clinical Psychologists in the United Kingdom, and welcomes high-calibre candidates from the UK and abroad. The course provides a first-rate training in clinical psychology, leading to a doctoral qualification accredited by the UK’s Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS). The Course’s overarching aim is to train independently minded, scientifically-oriented and compassionate clinicians capable of taking a leadership role in health services at home or abroad.

The UCL Course is at the forefront of many of the national and local developments and innovations which impact on the profession, and many members of staff are closely involved in NHS planning at both national and local level. We aim to equip trainees with the knowledge and skills they need to become effective clinical practitioners in a rapidly changing NHS. The Course has an explicitly pluralistic ethos and exposes trainees to a variety of approaches. It also encourages practice that demonstrates an awareness of equal opportunities and a sensitivity to the multi-cultural contexts routinely encountered in clinical work in London.

The course is three years in length and consists of a mixture of taught lectures, seminars and workshops running alongside a series of 6 placements based in clinical services in and around London. The academic programme is delivered by a highly experienced team of clinical psychologists, many of whom are world-leaders in their academic and clinical fields. The clinical placements provide trainees with opportunities to develop their skills under experienced supervision in a wide variety of contexts, using a broad range of models, and with a wide spectrum of clients.

As a course that is based in one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, UCL trainees have the opportunity to conduct high-quality research under the supervision of leading scientists in the field.

Core Purpose and Philosophy of the Course http://www.ucl.ac.uk/dclinpsy/docs/app_docs/core_purpose_and_philosophy

Applying to the Course

The course welcomes applications from interested candidates from the UK and EU. International candidates apply directly to UCL. Further details can be found on the following webpage: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/dclinpsy/international/

For details of the application process for UK and EU candidates, please choose from the options below.

At present trainees are full-time employees of the health service, and their University fees are paid directly by the NHS. Although there is a possibility that these arrangement may not apply to candidates entering programmes in 2017, this is unclear. As such, candidates should not be deterred from making applications.

This message will be updated as soon as more information is forthcoming.

The closing date for for receipt of applications for courses starting in Autumn 2017 is 1pm on 30th November 2016.

Further Entry Requirements

The UCL Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is a 3-year full-time programme which entitles graduates to apply for registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the Health Professions Council and as a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with the British Psychological Society.

Candidates need to meet some basic academic criteria. After that, they also need to demonstrate (by gaining some relevant clinical experience) that they have some awareness of the roles undertaken by clinical psychologists, are familiar with the sorts of clients psychologists see, and have an idea of the contexts within which psychologists work. In addition, they need to show that they have the appropriate personal characteristics needed to work effectively with a wide range of potentially vulnerable individuals, and to contribute to the work of fellow professionals in the NHS or equivalent organisations.


Candidates who have not achieved a good 2.1 may need to think carefully about whether it makes sense to pursue a training in Clinical Psychology, since it is unlikely that they will be offered a place on a Doctoral Course. However, we recognise that sometimes degrees under-represent someone's academic ability - for example, illness or major life-events may have meant that there were periods when it was hard to maintain a good standard of work. If this is the case applicants need to offer clear evidence of their academic capacity in their application. This evidence must be supported by an academic referee who has monitored the candidate's work and can clearly demonstrate that certain academic achievements results underestimate the applicant's academic abilities.

Candidates with a 2.2 will not usually be accepted on the course unless there is unequivocal evidence of subsequent academic achievement equivalent to a good 2.1. In practice this means obtaining a higher degree, but the type of degree needs to be thought about carefully. Some Masters degrees will not offer enough academic challenge, making it hard for an academic referee to make the unequivocal judgment about a student's ability that a course needs. The more academically demanding a course, the more likely it is that they will be able to do this.

Graduate basis for chartered membership
In order to be considered for a place on any training course in Clinical Psychology it is essential to have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)with the British Psychological Society (BPS), usually at the time of applying or certainly by the time shortlisting is completed (in February). Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership is the same as Graduate Basis for Registration: all that has changed is the name. So if you previously had GBR you will now have GBC. The usual way of obtaining this is by completing an undergraduate degree in Psychology, or by taking a qualifying exam or programme which confers eligibility.

Not all Psychology programmes confer eligibility for GBC. If you are unsure whether you are entitled to GBC you should check this with your programme staff or write to the BPS (St Andrews House, 48 Princess Road East , Leicester LE1 7DR; Tel: 0116 254 9568; e-mail: [email protected] ) for more details.


Relevant clinical experience
In order to have a realistic chance of being selected it is essential to gain some relevant clinical experience before applying to the course. There are several reasons for this. It gives applicants a chance to test out whether work in this field is for them - it is much better to discover this before making a major career commitment. It also means that courses know that candidates' applications are realistic, and gives them an idea of how applicants have responded to the clinical work they have undertaken. Many trainees find that they make good use of their pre-training experience during training, so it is not 'wasted' time.

We know that asking for relevant experience causes people to think twice about applying for Clinical Psychology course. It means that there is a gap between completing an undergraduate degree and starting training, with no guarantee of getting on a course. This presents a real challenge to many people, not least a financial one. There is also a risk - widely recognised by courses - that potential applicants feel themselves obliged to work for a number of years in the hope of gaining enough experience to be taken onto a course. We know that most people work for around 1-2 years before getting on a course, and in most cases this should be sufficient.

Being clear about what counts as experience is hard to specify, especially because suitable posts vary enormously. As above, and very broadly, candidates should look for experience which gives them:

. an idea of what clinical psychologists actually do
. some direct clinical contact with the sort of clients psychologists work with
. an idea of what work with clients actually entails
. a sense of the organisational context in which clinical psychology usually operates

One common route is to find work as an Assistant Psychologist. These posts are advertised in the BPS Bulletin (distributed monthly to all members of the BPS) and also (although less frequently) in other relevant publications - for example, the health section of papers such as The Guardian.

As assistant posts are in relatively short supply, it is important to emphasise that they are not the only route to gaining relevant experience. For this reason applicants should think broadly about the possible options open to them. For example, employment in a social work context or as a nursing assistant in a psychiatric unit, or as a worker in a MIND Day Centre would be extremely valuable; all would count as relevant experience. Another route is to take a post as a research assistant, though the research should usually offer at least some direct involvement in a clinical area. It is worth remembering that a very "academic" research post would not give candidates much of a sense of how the clinical world operates, or how they react to the sorts of clients seen in clinical contexts.

There is something of a myth that applicants need to build an extensive 'portfolio' of experience, with more than one client group, and with a mixture of research and clinical experience. Speaking at least for selectors at UCL, we are not looking for this. We are looking for people whose posts map onto the bullet-pointed criteria just above, and who can show (and reflect on) the benefits of this experience in the way they present themselves. Basically it is the quality of experience - and what the person makes of it - that is as important as the quantity of experience.

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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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Specialised training

Gain advanced training in clinical psychology, as well as a detailed knowledge of the tools and techniques used by clinical psychologists, with our Postgraduate Certificate of Clinical Psychology program. You will also:
*Learn how to assess and diagnose child and adult psychopathology;
*learn about the various treatment options
*gain an understanding of the interaction between physical health and psychological health.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Clinical Psychology, graduates will be able to:
*Integrate specialised theoretical and technical knowledge in the field of clinical psychology and related areas of clinical practice
*Review and reflect on the ethics and efficacy of professional practice, interventions and interactions
*Analyse, synthesise and evaluate knowledge and evidence bases underpinning clinical practice
*Apply advanced English language, and technological and numeracy skills to generate, interpret and communicate complex knowledge, concepts, data and arguments, appropriate for a variety of audiences
*Exercise high-level judgement and initiative to identify and solve complex problems, make informed decisions and plan ongoing professional learning within diverse clinical practice contexts.

Award title

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (GCertClinPsych)

Course articulation

Candidates who achieve a Distinction average in all subjects, and who otherwise satisfy the requirements, may apply for admission to the Master of Psychology or Graduate Diploma of Clinical Psychology or Graduate Diploma of Geropsychology, and receive full advanced standing for subjects completed.

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 3c - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 7.0 (no component lower than 7.0), OR
*TOEFL – 577 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 5.5), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 100 (minimum writing score of 23), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 72

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Who is this course for?

Our Postgraduate Certificate program is designed for psychologists who have completed an APS-accredited four-year training sequence and are seeking specialised postgraduate training.
Please note, this course provides fifth-year credentials and does not provide an APAC accredited fourth-year equivalent.

Why JCU?

The Department of Psychology at James Cook University has a well-earned international reputation for excellence in teaching and research and the friendliness, helpfulness, accessibility and approachability of its academic and general staff.
Tutorial classes are amongst the smallest in the country, providing the opportunity for personalized assistance. The Department has very well-equipped, modern facilities on both the Cairns and Townsville campuses and excellent research infrastructure.

Application deadlines

• Last Friday in October for commencement in semester one (February) the following year

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The Department of Psychology & counseling offers a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology. The need for qualified clinicians and mental health professionals to serve the community necessitated the establishment of this program. The Master of Science program is designed to provide proper training for Masters level psychologists to work in a variety of clinical settings including hospitals, schools, public agencies, and private practice. It also provides a foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced doctoral studies. The program focuses on the field of clinical psychology. The curriculum is structured to enable students pursue a plan of study to assure increased professional competence and breadth of knowledge in the field of clinical psychology. This program requires 39 semester hours of study, including two practicum courses (600 clock hours) of supervised practicum experience in an approved mental health or rehabilitation setting. For more details on this program, click here: http://www.chss.uaeu.ac.ae/en/mscp/index.shtml

Program Objectives

‌•To provide students with advanced knowledge of current developments in clinical psychology.
‌•To train students on the application of clinical knowledge to solve psychological problems.
‌•To train students to act independently in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.
‌•To enable students to communicate clinical issues and conclusions clearly to all parties involved.
‌•To provide students with knowledge that enables them to conduct clinical research under minimal supervision.

Program Learning Outcomes

‌•Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
‌•Demonstrate clinical knowledge that is culturally sound and relevant to professional and ethical practices in the field of mental health.
‌•Conduct proper psychological assessment.
‌•Diagnose successfully clients’ clinical problems using DSM/ ICD.
‌•Create suitable treatment plans for diverse psychological disorders.
‌•Apply therapeutic skills to help clients (individuals and groups) overcome their psychological disorders.
‌•Communicate comprehensive and understandable psychological reports to all parties involved.
‌•Apply appropriate methodology to conduct research in clinical psychology.

Program Structure

‌•Advanced Clinical Psychology
‌•Cross-Cultural Issues
‌•Advanced Psychopathology
‌•Personality Self-report Measures
‌•Child & Family Therapy
‌•Intellectual Assessment
‌•Psychotherapy: Theories & Techniques
‌•Advanced Behavioral Statistics
‌•Internship I
‌•Health Psychology
‌•Scientific and Professional Ethics
‌•Internship II


Elective Courses (CH:6)
Group A
‌(Students should select one course from this group) (3.00 hours)
‌•Research Design and Methods
‌•Neuropsychology
‌•Individual Tests (Children)

Group B (Students should select one course from this group) (3.00 hours)

‌•Seminar in Mental Health
‌•Personality Perfomance-based Measures
‌•Psychopharmacology
‌•Master's Thesis

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Clinical psychology can be studied as either a standalone coursework program, the Master of Clinical Psychology (MCP) or as a postgraduate double degree incorporating coursework and research, the Master of Clinical Psychology and Doctor of Philosophy (MCP and PhD). The MCP and PhD provides psychology graduates with clinical and doctorate-level research training in clinical psychology that is consistent with international standards of professional psychology.

The programs adopt a scientific and evidence-based approach to clinical psychology. The treatment model is based on a cognitive-behavioural approach, and the introduction of alternative models of therapy in the second year ensures both a depth and breadth to your clinical training.

The MCP and PhD involves four and a half years of full-time study and includes three components: academic coursework, supervised clinical placements and research.

Qualified clinical psychologists provide you with supervised clinical practice in an internal on-campus psychology clinic, as well as a variety of external teaching hospitals and clinics. The programs include a minimum of 1200 hours of clinical placement experience. The research component in the MCP and PhD requires you to produce a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research thesis.

To ask a question about this course, visit http://sydney.edu.au/internationaloffice/

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Summary

The MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology is recognised as a Continuing Professional Development programme by the British Psychology Society (BPS) and aims to provide students with a broad understanding of the empirical and theoretical foundations of clinical psychology and the role of the clinical psychologist in a European and international context.

The programme focuses on the application of clinical psychology cross-culturally. It will serve as an academic stepping-stone to a PhD in psychology and will supplement students’ experience when applying for doctoral programmes in clinical psychology.

Modules

Core modules: Applied Research Methods; Fundamentals of Clinical Psychology; Fundamentals of Therapeutic Skills; CBT for Anxiety and Depression; Leadership and Management Plus dissertation

Visit our website for further information.

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The Staffordshire University Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) is an integrated 3-year full time course leading to a professional qualification in Clinical Psychology. It is a collaborative venture between the University and clinical psychologists in Shropshire and Staffordshire. The course is approved by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The curriculum is based on the HCPC Standards of Education and Training and Standards of Proficiency and the BPS Accreditation Criteria. Graduates are eligible to apply for Practitioner Psychologist Registration with the HCPC and Chartered Psychologist status with the BPS.

Our curriculum is designed to develop clinicians who can draw on a broad range of psychological models and theories to inform their clinical work and who have the confidence to use a variety of research methods appropriate to addressing clinical questions. An important strand running through the course is the impact of society and context upon psychological wellbeing, and we attempt to ensure that issues of difference and diversity are fully addressed. We encourage our trainees to be alert to the changing health needs of the population, the NHS, and the research base that informs clinical practice. We encourage trainees to be mindful of power differences within professional relationships. We value service user and carer perspectives, and the active role service users/carers can play in the planning and development of services.

Course content

The course is full-time for three years and attendance at all course components is mandatory. The length of the course cannot be reduced through the accreditation of prior learning or experience.
Trainees' time on the course is divided between academic work, research, individual study time and clinical experience. Each academic year begins with a mandatory induction block of up to six weeks, plus mandatory NHS Trust training in Year 1, to prepare trainees for safe and effective practice in their supervised clinical work.

Academic Teaching
Academic teaching consists of workshops, lectures, seminars, and online learning. It covers a broad range of topics in psychology, providing the knowledge base for practice and training in clinical, professional, therapeutic, and research skills. Teaching in Years 1 and 2 is closely linked with the competencies that are assessed on placements, whilst teaching in Year 3 focuses more on specialist skills. Teaching is provided by course staff supported by Clinical Psychologists and Service Users from the course area and beyond.

Clinical Experience
Clinical placements are mostly located in services within NHS Trusts in Shropshire and Staffordshire where clinical psychology is a strong and well-developed profession. The Clinical Director is responsible for planning placements with each trainee to offer a coherent and effective experience. Clinical placements start after induction blocks and take place in a wide range of hospitals, clinics, community centres, and independent sector agencies. In Year 1 trainees are normally placed in the same geographical area as their employer. Trainees have a degree of choice over their third year clinical experience. During each year, trainees work with up to three Main Supervisors who assume responsibility for supervising the work over time periods ranging between 3 and 12 months (typically six months), amounting to a minimum number of placement days overall. Trainees may also undertake specific pieces of work with other supervisors. Each trainee develops an Individual Learning Portfolio which is drawn up by the trainee in discussion with the Main Supervisors, the Clinical Director/Tutor and their Personal Tutor.

Research
The research component of the course encompasses research methods training (qualitative and quantitative methods) and the process of conducting clinically relevant research. Assessed research activities include critical appraisal of literature; a research proposal; a research methods examination; a service evaluation project; and a major research thesis incorporating a literature review, an empirical paper, and a summary report. Thesis papers should be of publishable standard and at least one paper must be submitted to a nominated journal. The thesis is initiated early in Year 1 and completed in the second semester of Year 3. There is considerable scope for choice of research topic and methodologies, provided that they are in line with national and/or local research priorities and with available supervision. Trainees are co-supervised by academics from Staffordshire University and local clinicians. Trainees have access to a wide range of University and NHS library and online resources to support research activity.

Other admission requirements

Experience requirements
Candidates must have a minimum of one year full-time (or part-time equivalent) practical experience of working with people in a human service setting. Applicants with experience outside traditional health/caring settings are encouraged to apply, and should clearly outline how the experience is relevant to the profession and study of clinical psychology. If necessary, candidates should include further information to this effect about their relevant work experience in the personal statement section of the application form.

Relevant examples could include the demonstration of skills in: understanding different issues for people across the life-span; understanding the impact of different social circumstances on psychological distress and wellbeing; working with a range of other professionals; experience of psychometric assessment or other forms of assessment; assisting service users to have a voice; gaining some understanding or experience of the NHS and Social Care services etc.

Clinically related research may also be considered appropriate experience, but this would need to comprise involvement in the research process that has included direct client contact, thereby demonstrating appropriate skills. Completion of a higher degree would not in itself evidence sufficient research experience. Doctoral training is clinically, emotionally and academically demanding, therefore candidates need to demonstrate aptitude for this level of work and show how they will manage the demands of training.

Application and Selection Procedure
Applications to this course are made through the Clinical Psychology Clearing House. Full information about the application process, including entry criteria, can be found on the Clearing House website. The Staffordshire course entry is here: https://www.leeds.ac.uk/chpccp/Clin27Staffordshire.html

Applicants who meet the minimum criteria entry are invited to undertake a written exercise during February at Staffordshire University. The highest scoring candidates are invited to, or placed on a reserve list for, the interview stage of our selection process, subject to satisfactory references. Following this stage, offers are made to the most suitable candidates, subject to satisfactory Occupational Health screening and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

References
Applicants must provide the names of two referees, one able to comment on academic achievement and one on relevant experience.

Funding
Health Education West Midlands (HEWM) funds the salaries and University fees of all trainees throughout their training. Trainees are employed by one of the NHS Trusts in the region, with associated NHS terms and conditions, on Band 6 of the Agenda for Change pay scale.
HEWM will only fund EU/EEA citizens. Owing to pressure on placements, it is regrettably not possible to accept non-EU/EEA citizens and there are currently no self/non-NHS funded places.

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Specialised training

Gain advanced training in clinical psychology, as well as a detailed knowledge of the tools and techniques used by clinical psychologists, with our Postgraduate Diploma of Clinical Psychology program. You will also:
*Learn how to assess and diagnose child and adult psychopathology;
*learn about the various treatment options
*gain an understanding of the interaction between physical health and psychological health.

Who is this course for?

Our Postgraduate Diploma program is designed for psychologists who have completed an APS-accredited four-year training sequence and are seeking specialised postgraduate training.
Please note, this course provides fifth-year credentials and does not provide an APAC accredited fourth-year equivalent.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Clinical Psychology, graduates will be able to:
*Integrate advanced theoretical and technical knowledge in the field of clinical psychology and related areas of clinical practice
*Review and reflect on the ethics and efficacy of clinical practice including application of assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, intervention and outcome evaluation
*Analyse, synthesise and evaluate knowledge and evidence bases underpinning clinical practice
*Apply advanced English language, and technological and numeracy skills to generate, interpret and communicate complex knowledge, concepts, data and arguments, appropriate for a variety of audiences
*Exercise high-level judgement and initiative to identify and solve complex problems, make informed decisions and plan ongoing professional learning within diverse clinical practice contexts.

Award title

GRADUATE DIPLOMA OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (GDipClinPsych)

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 3c - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*Academic IELTS – 7.0 (no component lower than 7.0), OR
*TOEFL – 577 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 5.5), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 100 (minimum writing score of 23), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 72

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 3c – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Why JCU?

The Department of Psychology at James Cook University has a well-earned international reputation for excellence in teaching and research and the friendliness, helpfulness, accessibility and approachability of its academic and general staff.
Tutorial classes are amongst the smallest in the country, providing the opportunity for personalized assistance. The Department has very well-equipped, modern facilities on both the Cairns and Townsville campuses and excellent research infrastructure.

Application deadlines

• Last Friday in October for commencement in semester one (February) the following year

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Overview

This degree is the professional training course for those who want to practice as clinical psychologists. It equips you to become a high calibre practitioner who is well grounded in theory and practice, and capable of moving across a range of clinically oriented areas.

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

Key benefits

- Offers a variety of subjects including psychopathology, cognitive behaviour therapy, and clinical psychopharmacology
- Ensures you become capable of working in a variety of clinically oriented areas and assuming full independent professional responsibility through supervised practical placements
- Gives you access to the Macquarie University Psychology Clinic as well as other research and training facilities including the Centre for Emotional Health Clinic.

Suitable for

Suitable if you are a fourth year psychology honours graduate (within the last 10 years) wanting a professional career in clinical psychology.

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.

Clinical Psychology Scholarships are available for clinical psychology postgraduate courses in Australia, subject to eligibility conditions.

Work experience requirements

Professional experience relevant to clinical psychology is a distinct advantage, either paid or voluntary, such as counselling or youth work.

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 Psychologists. Completion of the Master of Clinical Psychology leads to registration as a psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and endorsement as a clinical psychologist in Australia.

- Career Opportunities
There are a range of career opportunities available in hospital settings, private practice, consultancy and educational institutions.

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

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Become a competent and capable clinical psychologist. Receive training which emphasises psychotherapy, reflective practice, complex clinical issues and applicable research skills. As the first in the country to be approved through a joint partnership between the Health and Care Professions Council (HPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS), and having run since 1982, this programme will enhance your psychological career and enable you to become a highly reflective scientist practitioner.

Key features

Study an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) recognised research degree, one of the first to award the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Benefit from service user involvement through working closely with the Service User and Carer Consultative Group.

Widening participation in clinical psychology - candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences are welcome.

Benefit from our commitment to producing competent and capable clinical psychologists who work as highly reflective scientist practitioners.

Become eligible to apply for registration as clinical psychologists with the Health and Care Professions Council, with the opportunity to gain Chartered Psychologist (C.Psychol) status, and full membership of the Division of Clinical Psychology with the British Psychological Society.

Take advantage of excellent relationships with local services in the South West of England; local clinicians are committed to supporting training and offer a wide range of placements in both rural and urban settings.

Course details

Each year of this programme begins with an extended teaching block, the remaining teaching is then spread regularly throughout the year. The remainder of your time will be spent on clinical placements with teaching interspersed to complement the clinical experience you gain. Over the duration of the programme you will also undertake year-long placement periods. During your first year of study you will work with children, young people and families, and people with learning disabilities. As a first year trainee you will also gain a foundation level qualification in systemic family therapy (independently accredited by the Association of Family Therapy).

In your second year, you will gain experience interacting with adults and older adults. In this year greater emphasis is placed on working with individuals.

Your third year is a time for consolidating your new skills and preparing for future work in the health service. This year will take account of current legislation and policy with regard to the role of clinical psychologists in the National Health Service. For example, emphasis has been placed on acquiring competencies in supervision, consultation and leadership in line with recent policy guidelines. Research activities bridge the academic and clinical components of the programme with time allocated particularly in year three for a major empirical research project.

Applying

All applications for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology are made via:

The Clearing House

Fairbairn House

71-75 Clarendon Road,

Leeds, LS2 9PL.

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