Masters Degrees in Clinical Psychology, United Kingdom

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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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 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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The Masters in Clinical and Abnormal Psychology offers a comprehensive grounding in aspects of psychopathology and abnormal behaviour.

As well as modules that will develop knowledge of the aetiology and treatment of a range of psychological disorders and abnormal behaviours, this programme includes a substantial research element.

You will receive extensive training in research methods via a postgraduate statistics module and will complete a postgraduate dissertation in a related topic. Links with a number of agencies and the University of South Wales’ Psychology Clinic means that suitable students should have the opportunity for access to client groups in order to complete an applied dissertation.

We aim to provide students with access to clinical populations to collect psychological data in order to complete an applied dissertation. This is possible through our links with local NHS trusts and local healthcare providers. In addition, the University of South Wales has recently invested in a new psychology clinic which provides clinical and therapeutic services. Suitable students will be able to benefit from in-house research opportunities and supervised voluntary experience.

The MSc Clinical and Abnormal Psychology draws on the research and applied expertise of psychologists in the fields of developmental, clinical, health, sports and forensic psychology. You will learn about a wide range of developmental disorders including autism and conduct disorder, as well as dependence issues such as alcohol addiction and eating disorders. You will also explore interventions such as pharmacological and behavioural treatments, as well as research on depression, anxiety and personality disorders.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/836-msc-clinical-and-abnormal-psychology

What you will study

You will study 180 credits comprising of the following modules:
- Research Methods in Health Psychology: Measurement & Professional Issues (40 credits)
- Psychopathology Through the Lifespan (20 credits)
- Interventions (20 credits)
- Addiction, Dependence and Deviance (20 credits)
- Current and Historical Perspectives on Psychopathology (20 credits)
- Dissertation (60 credits)

Learning and teaching methods

The MSc Clinical and Abnormal Psychology is delivered through a variety of lectures, seminars and workshops. Some of these sessions will be led by members of the teaching team and some by external experts in clinical psychology practice. There will also be student-led sessions and some elements will be delivered online.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

While completion of this programme will not qualify you to practice as a Clinical Psychologist in the UK, nor guarantee acceptance onto a DClinPsy course; the skills that you will develop should enhance your applications for professional training programmes, Assistant Psychologist posts, or Research Assistant posts in clinical settings.

Career options:
Graduates of this masters programme will possess a diversity of skills that will enhance their applications for a range of popular training, employment, and research opportunities. These may include:

Clinical psychology doctorate programmes: These are extremely popular and competitive training courses and successful applicants are likely to have work experience in an appropriate setting as well as suitable qualifications. Applied research experience including the collection of psychological data in a clinical setting should be a useful addition to an application for further training. The extensive research training and applied dissertation completed in this MSc programme should contribute to more robust applications to Clinical doctorate programmes.

Assistant Psychologist posts: These are sought after positions with many applicants for every post; not least because experience as an Assistant Psychologist can help support an application to clinical doctorate training programmes. Successful completion of this MSc programme will suggest a commitment to a career in clinical psychology as well as the development of skills and knowledge that are more advanced than those gained during an undergraduate degree. This may help to help enhance applications for Assistant Psychologist posts.

Research Assistant posts: Excellent psychological research is extremely important in the field of clinical psychology. The extensive research focus and the dissertation completed in this programme will provide graduates with a range of research skills including the ability to critically evaluate literature, research, and applications in the field of clinical psychology, as well as experience in designing, conducting, writing up and disseminating good quality psychological research. These are transferable skills that should be valued in a range of Research Assistant posts.

Assessment methods

A range of assessment methods will be used, including examinations, essays, a systematic literature review, research reports, and case study analysis. You will also complete a dissertation of 15,000- 20,000 words. The range of teaching and assessment methods used will foster a range of skills that are transferable to the workplace and/or further professional training.

Facilities

As a student in the School of Psychology, you’ll have access to the latest learning technologies, facilities and equipment, including excellent designated facilities.

These include observation and interview rooms equipped with two-way mirror, CCTV and audio and allow research and interview practice sessions to be conducted and recorded onto DVD. We also have a custom-built air-conditioned PC laboratory which provides access to specialist software for running psychology experiments and conducting careers guidance interviews. More specialist equipment is also available in our cognitive suite and more details about this are given below.

- Cognitive suite
The cognitive psychology suite houses specialist psychology equipment. This includes eye tracking equipment which is capable of studying the eye movements of individuals whilst they complete cognitive tasks. The suite includes EEG (electroencephalogram) and ECG (electrocardiogram) facilities for recording electrical activity in the heart and scalp. There is also a driving simulator which is currently being used by postgraduate students to complete a study which examines the effects of stressors on driving performance.

- Psychology clinic facility (PAWB Wales)
As well as our excellent dedicated teaching facilities, the School of Psychology offers a wide range of psychological services to the general public. These are offered through our new PAWB Wales clinic facility and include play therapy, behaviour analysis, health and sport psychology interventions. The clinic activities support our wide range of postgraduate opportunities and undergraduate students can also get involved in some of the clinic’s work.

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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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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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This course is designed to provide you with a critical understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology and the organisational and social context of clinical psychology services. It aims to provide you with the academic skills to undertake research in a clinical setting and the experience of working within a mental health setting through six-month placements with a local clinical psychologist.

The course team consists of clinical practitioners and academics who have considerable experience working with or researching the people who access clinical psychology services across the UK.

What will you study?

The MSc Psychology in Clinical Practice consists of 180 credits completed within one academic year and each module in the course is compulsory. You will undertake a clinical research and practice placement alongside a range of taught modules.

Modules may include:

Practice Placement and Clinical Research Project
Professional Clinical Practice
Advanced Experimentation and Statistics
Qualitative Research Design and Analysis
Mixed Methods
Using Psychometric Scales in Research and Practice
Clinical Psychology: Theory into Practice
Clinical Psychology: The Self, Services and Society

For more information about the modules you may study on this course visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/clinicalpractice

Facilities

The University has made significant financial investment in the Psychology Division over recent years upgrading accommodation, facilities and equipment used exclusively for the provision of our psychology courses and for research. We have a dedicated teaching laboratory specifically catering for postgraduate students.

In addition there are specialist suites dedicated to particular areas of interest in psychology, including:

- social interaction, group work and interviewing
- computer gaming and cyberpsychology
- eye-tracking
- cognitive modelling and visual analysis
- psychophysiology.

Alongside these are new flexible cubicles for student project work, a psychometric test bank library, and a technical workshop.

Assessments

The assessment methods include:
- practical reports
- assessed essays
- examinations
- oral presentations
- a reflective practice diary
- a clinical research project.

Careers

The course will be of particular interest to psychology graduates seeking to pursue a career in clinical psychology via doctoral training programmes (DClinPsy). Admission onto such programmes is highly competitive, and completion of this course will enable you to demonstrate that you have both the academic grounding and experience of clinical research to be in a favourable position to pursue either training or further work as an assistant psychologist.

Graduates might also consider alternative careers in healthcare and health research – either within core health providers such as the NHS or within academic departments locally or internationally.

Please note that this course does not provide training for you to become a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. Further training is required for this role.

The course has been designed by academic staff with experience in clinical psychology within the NHS and with the training of clinical psychologists, and also with ongoing clinical work in local mental health services. Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust – the largest provider of mental health services in the UK – has been alongside the University in the formative stages of the course development, and have maintained an interest in ensuring the employability potential of graduates from the course.

Scholarships

The School of Social Sciences offers a number of competitive scholarships for our full-time and part-time Masters courses. For more information please visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3scholarships

Want to find out more? Come along to one of our postgraduate Open Evenings. For further details please visit: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3events

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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 MSc aims to encourage an integrated understanding of child development and a range of childhood disorders, and to give students an opportunity to apply this understanding in a clinical setting through a supervised placement in the second year within a mental health service.

Degree information

The programme draws together theory, research and therapeutic thinking from a range of perspectives, including clinical and cognitive psychology, systemic thinking, psychoanalysis and neuroscience. In a workshop setting, students develop competencies in engagement, assessment and evaluation, and practical skills necessary for therapeutic work with children and families. These are then put into practice during the clinical placement.

This two-year MSc has a total value of 300 credits. Each year students complete modules to the value of 150 credits.

Year One: taught modules (150 credits). Year Two: clinical skills modules (35 credits), a clinical practice in context module (15 credits) and the research dissertation (100 credits).

Year One core modules
-Multiple Perspectives on Development Psychopathology I
-Multiple Perspectives on Development Psychopathology II
-Development Psychopathology: Development Disorders from Multiple Perspectives
-Research Methods I (formative)
-Research Methods II: Introduction to Statistical Analysis
-Research Methods III: Introduction to Qualitative Research (formative)
-Evaluating Clinical Interventions
-An Introduction to Psychoanalytic Theory
-The Clinical Theory of Psychoanalysis
-Building and Maintaining Therapeutic Relationships
-Assessment and Planning Clinical Interventions
-Parent-Infant Observation

Year Two core modules
-Clinical Practice in Context
-Clinical Skills I
-Clinical Skills II
-Research Dissertation
-Research Workshop

Dissertation/research project
All MSc students undertake a research portfolio which may include both a developmental and a clinical focus, such as the evaluation and understanding of clinical and therapeutic services for children and young people. This culminates in a dissertation made up of an 8,000-word journal paper, a poster and oral exam.

Teaching and learning
In year one students attend weekly lectures complemented by small group seminars. Modules focusing on clinical skills are classroom based. In year two, as well as taking further modules, students move into a 2-3 days per week placement in a child and adolescent mental health (CAMHS) setting, supervised by an experienced clinician. Assessment is by a mixture of course work, examinations and the dissertation.

Careers

Since the MSc was established in 2011 graduates have gone on to work with children and families in various therapeutic settings, or to undertake further doctoral-level clinical training, such as clinical psychology, child psychotherapy, or counselling psychology. Some of our graduates also pursue research careers, including PhD study.

Employability
Completing this MSc will help you develop several core clinical competencies and provide direct supervised experience of work in a child and adolescent mental health service, placing you in a very strong position to proceed to a full clinical training, such as in clinical psychology or child psychotherapy.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The programme is based at the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families in London, a world-renowned centre for research, training and clinical practice in the field of child mental health. Distinctive features include teaching by highly experienced clinicians and researchers working in the field of child mental health; the opportunity to develop clinical skills for working with children; practical training in conducting research in clinical settings.

You will also gain exposure to clinical work within NHS and/or voluntary sector organisations involving children, adolescents and families, under the supervision of an experienced clinician.

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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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This course is for you if you’re a Psychology graduate with an interest in clinical training, and you want to strengthen your credentials for the competitive entry process. The course is run jointly by the Department of Psychology and the Coventry-Warwick Clinical Psychology Doctorate programme. Currently, we can only consider you if you’re a UK/EU student with a Psychology degree that provides Graduate Basis for Chartership (British Psychological Society). This policy reflects that UK doctoral training in clinical psychology is available primarily to UK/EU citizens.

You will study a range of modules on clinical research methods, evidence-based practice in adult, older adult and child/adolescent populations and clinical case analysis. You will also have the opportunity to do a six-month NHS placement as an honorary assistant psychologist, which is particularly valuable if you’re
considering a career in the clinical profession.

The majority of our graduates proceed to NHS assistantships and clinical PhD studentships. Many of our postgraduates have progressed to DClin courses, including Coventry-Warwick, Institute of Psychiatry (Kings), Oxford, Manchester and Trinity College Dublin.

Course overview

This course is designed for Psychology graduates who plan to apply for admission to doctoral training programmes in Clinical Psychology, and are in the process of strengthening their credentials for the competitive entry process.

The taught components of the course include modules on research methods tailored to clinical applications, evidence-based practice in adult, older adult, and child/adolescent populations, learning disabilities, and clinical case analysis. Teaching provision is shared between academics with research interests in the relevant topics and practising clinicians with current experience in Psychology services within the NHS.

The practical component of the course is a unique 6-month research/audit placement in a local NHS trust that maintains a training relationship with our doctoral programme. Students are assigned to placements, where they will work with Clinical Psychologists on clinical audit and research, as applicable to the specific setting of the placement. On-site supervision is provided by a clinical supervisor. Every effort is made to match students' interests with the available placement opportunities. The formal output of the placement is a written dissertation comprising a literature review and a report of the research work carried out during the placement, to be completed under the guidance of an academic supervisor.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching consists of lectures and seminars plus additional workshops. You will have an average of 8 – 10 hours of lectures and 4 hours of seminars per week in Term 1. Assessment is mainly by submission of assignments and a class test.

In Term 2 you will be out on placement for 3 days a week. This will enable you to gain practical experience of working with Clinical Psychologists within NHS trusts. You will be assigned to 6 month long placements during which you will complete 2 pieces of academic work.

NOTE: This course will not lead to a license to practice as a Clinical Psychologist. It is a qualification that will significantly strengthen students' academic and work experience credentials required for entry into the professional doctoral training that is required for licensed clinical practice.

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This MSc course provides a dynamic and current perspective across the various areas of clinical applications of psychology. Specifically, it covers theories of psychopathology from childhood to adulthood, and clinical applications of psychology in health and wellbeing. The course also covers basic counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) skills, as well as the professional issues relevant to clinical practitioners.

Please note that, although this course is anticipated to significantly enhance your knowledge of the clinical applications of psychology and therefore benefit your future career – be it in clinical training and practice, research or other related areas of psychology – it does not lead to a professional qualification as a clinical psychologist, nor does it guarantee entry to doctoral-level training in clinical psychology.
-You will be taught by both clinically active psychologists as well as academics who conduct research in clinically relevant areas.
-There is a strong practical focus – across all modules, we emphasise applying the relevant theory and research to clinical practice in mental health. You will also acquire foundation counselling and cognitive behavioural skills.
-If you are already in a clinical placement, we will support you in considering relevant empirical evidence and how it may inform your work with the particular client group.

What will you study?

You will gain in-depth knowledge of theories of adult and child psychopathology, and will study the biopsychosocial aspects of health and illness. You will explore the evidence base for psychological and behavioural change interventions in mental and physical health, and will cover advanced research methodology and statistics. The course also provides opportunities for detailed and advanced study (via the dissertation) of a chosen area in clinical applications of psychology, enabling further development of your practical research skills. You will acquire basic counselling and cognitive behavioural skills, and will gain a comprehensive knowledge of the issues relevant to clinical practice, such as context and settings for clinical practitioners. You will also consider professional issues and current debates in ethics and diversity relevant to practitioners and researchers in mental health, and will learn how to apply ethical principles in both your research and via real or hypothetical clinical case studies.

Assessment

Assessment methods include essays, in-class tests, presentations, unseen examinations, laboratory reports and dissertation.

Course structure

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Core modules
-Clinical Applications of Psychology
-Professional Practice
-Psychology Dissertation
-Psychopathology Across the Life Span
-Research Design and Analysis

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Do you want to work towards a clinical career with children or take the next step towards a doctorate? Gain an advanced academic understanding of developmental disorders and childhood mental health. Investigate causes, assessment, classification and treatment.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/clinical-child-psychology

Our course provides you with a strong foundation for research and will complement your professional clinical training. You’ll gain a comprehensive theoretical knowledge of the field, as well as the practical ability to design and evaluate clinical research programmes.

Specialist modules focus on diagnosis and treatment of different conditions, developmental psychopathology (including causes and impacts) and the broader issues surrounding psychological research.

You’ll also train in quantitative and qualitative research methods, including infant observation, assessment and diagnostic interviewing, neuroimaging (electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography) and neuropsychological assessment.

This leads up to your dissertation project, which will involve significant independent research with the guidance and support of our expert staff.

Please note that this course does not include clinical work with children and neither does it constitute professional training (e.g. training in clinical psychology).

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/clinical-child-psychology

This course will:
- provide you with a comprehension of the principles of research design and strategy within the field of developmental disorders and child psychopathology, including an understanding of how to formulate researchable problems and an appreciation of alternative approaches to research
- enable you to understand a range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies and tools, including infant observation, assessment and diagnostic interviewing, neuroimaging (electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG)) and neuropsychological assessment
- give you a comprehensive understanding of current theoretical issues in relation to cause, classification and treatment protocols for a range of developmental disorders and childhood mental health
- provide you with the skills necessary for managing research, including the process of research and its dissemination in a way that is consistent with both professional practice and the normal principles of research ethics
- develop your understanding of the significance of alternative epistemological positions that provide the context for theory construction, research design, and the selection of appropriate analytical techniques
- prepare you for careers in research, research methods, and provide you with a wide range of transferable skills
- provide you with the opportunity and the practical skills to carry out research with a clinical population using either quantitative or qualitative methodology.

On successful completion of this course you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
• current methodological issues within the clinical field specifically related to children
• current theoretical issues in developmental disorder and psychopathology
• the context (at the national and international levels) in which research takes place
• issues relating to the rights of other researchers, research subjects, and of others who might be affected by the research (e.g. ethical and legal issues, confidentiality, copyright, malpractice)
• good research practice in psychology clinical settings
• the relevant health and safety issues and responsible working practices
• the processes for funding and evaluation of research
• the process of academic and commercial exploitation of research results
• the scientific basis of the discipline of psychology: its philosophical, historical, and epistemological context
• the relationship between hypotheses, research design, data collection, interpretation, and theory
• a range of quantitative research methods and general statistical techniques

Careers

Our course is ideal if you want to pursue a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a career working with children or in other clinical settings. You’ll be highly employable in many research environments. You’re also in the perfect position to continue your academic career and move up to our Psychology PhD.

Core modules

Issues in Psychological Research
Diagnosis and Treatment in Clinical Child Psychology
Developmental Psychopathology
Quantitative Research Methods
Dissertation

Assessment

We’ll assess your theoretical and applied understanding through essays, portfolios, exams, presentations, debates, data analysis and dissertation.

Specialist facilities

You can use several dedicated, sound attenuated research laboratories, equipped with networked computers, as well as: an observation laboratory, including a two-way mirror; an electroencephalography (EEG) laboratory; an eye-tracking laboratory; a psycholinguistics laboratory; a psychometrics laboratory and a psychoneuroimmunology laboratory.

Your faculty

The Faculty of Science & Technology is one of the largest of five faculties at Anglia Ruskin University. Whether you choose to study with us full- or part-time, on campus or at a distance, there’s an option whatever your level – from a foundation degree, to a BSc, MSc, PhD or professional doctorate.

Whichever course you pick, you’ll gain the theory and practical skills needed to progress with confidence. Join us and you could find yourself learning in the very latest laboratories or on field trips or work placements with well-known and respected companies. You may even have the opportunity to study abroad.

Everything we do in the faculty has a singular purpose: to provide a world-class environment to create, share and advance knowledge in science and technology fields. This is key to all of our futures.

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The MSc in Clinical Applications of Psychology provides modules in aspects of psychology relevant to clinical practice, for students who are intending to apply to doctoral programmes in clinical psychology. Whilst there is no guarantee that students will ultimately be successful in gaining entry to doctoral programmes, this course is intended to strengthen your CV and enable you to get the most out of your relevant experience.

It is expected that most students accepted onto the MSc will be currently working in clinically relevant posts, such as psychology assistants, nursing assistants or therapy aides.

Module Information
There are six taught modules, taught sequentially over two years:
• Research Methods in Clinical Psychology
• Adult Psychopathology
• Neuropsychological Assessment
• Professional Issues, Ethics and Diversity
• Clinical Forensic Psychopathology
• Childhood Psychopathology.

The dissertation can be studied in three ways:
• In year 1, with study across 2 years alongside taught modules
• In year 2, with study alongside the remaining taught modules
• In year 3, after completing the taught modules.

After completing three modules, you will be eligible to receive a Postgraduate Certificate, and after six modules a Postgraduate
Diploma. Successful completion of the dissertation leads to the award of the MSc.

The research methods module will further develop your knowledge of the breadth of methods used in psychological research,
and the legal and ethical implications of conducting research.

The adult psychopathology aspects of the programme will enable you to conceptualise, describe and differentiate between the various psychological disorders, and develop your awareness and critical understanding of empirically derived treatment systems.

Within the neuropsychological assessment module you will gain experience and knowledge of key neuropsychological tests, and how cognition is affected by neurological conditions. This is informed by studying the principles of neuropsychological assessment and disorders of memory, attention, executive function and language.

The MSc will also improve your understanding of professional issues, ethics and diversity, considering the current and developing structure of clinical psychology in the UK. You will engage with current debates in ethics and diversity and learn how to competently apply ethical principles to real and hypothetical case examples. You will also relate these experiences to your own professional development.

In the clinical forensic psychopathology module consideration will be given to perspectives on offending behaviour, approaches to assessment and treatment, particularly examining these issues with specific offender types.

The area of childhood psychopathology will be explored, and you will be expected to apply psychological theories, research and case studies to a range of childhood psychopathologies. You will examine behavioural disorders, emotional disorders and, developmental and learning disorders in childhood and adolescence including assessment, diagnosis and treatment.

Finally, the dissertation will provide you with the opportunity to select an area of particular interest relevant to the field of clinical psychology and to design, plan and execute an in-depth research project.

Attendance
This programme is delivered predominantly on-line, with some Newman-based workshops held at weekends.

Assessment
Throughout the course you will develop the skills to successfully disseminate information to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. You will be assessed using a range of techniques such as on-line quizzes, essays, journal article presentations and
examinations.

Research Areas
Research in this area is fundamental to the mission of Newman University. The subject area welcomes applications from suitably qualified students who wish to pursue postgraduate research degrees (MPhil and PhD awarded by the University of Leicester).

“This course occupies a niche in higher education in psychology that does not seem to be filled elsewhere: a grounding in clinical psychology theory and research that can support and provide an additional dimension to the experience of psychology
graduates who are aiming to go on in the future to train in clinical or other related areas of applied psychology. The syllabus has been carefully designed to meet the course aims. The outcomes can be demonstrated in the level of performance of the students (and also in their reported success in gaining places on Doctorate courses).”
External Examiner

For MSc please contact [email protected]

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Health psychologists apply their knowledge of psychology and health to understand illness and promote health and wellbeing. They aim to enhance psychological and emotional outcomes for individuals who are ill or who have a disability.

Course details

They develop healthcare policy and work to improve the healthcare system.There is an urgent need to produce graduates who have experience of an interdisciplinary approach and who can apply both their academic knowledge to understand and contribute to the development of topics in health psychology as well as their practical skills to enhance practices such as stress and pain management in clinical health contexts. Furthermore, skills acquired by postgraduate psychological researchers are needed to promote evidence-based practice in healthcare.

The health psychology programme at Teesside presents a coherent programme of study which, at the same time, reflects the major debates and produces graduates who can creatively and innovatively contribute to the development of their field. The programme encourages you to develop your own interests within health psychology and to explore how health psychologists can work within these specialist areas. Health psychologists work in a variety of settings including the NHS, universities, private practice, health-related organisations, within communities and schools.

Professional accreditation

The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society and provides Stage 1 practitioner training, a pre-requisite for Stage II training in Health Psychology and Chartered Psychologist status.

What you study

The course comprises six core modules that aim to develop your knowledge of how psychology can be employed to facilitate and protect health, and develop your ability to effect change and suggest alternatives in healthcare provision.

You will explore current issues in health psychology, and gain transferable and practical skills to facilitate progression in the field of health psychology. Supported by a research methods team with expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methods, you will critically evaluate the nature and practice of research in health psychology, study research ethics and integrity and systematic reviewing, and develop skills in advanced research design and analysis.

The programme aims to develop writing and presentation skills that are transferable to practice, including conference presenting and writing for publication. Throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to think critically and reflect upon your skills development. Emphasis is given to the study of clinical and professional skills and you will be equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enable effective communication with patients and health professionals. You will explore our range of physiological measures, have an opportunity to practice assessment techniques and will gain knowledge of interventions including mindfulness, guided imagery and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Opportunities are provided for you to gain work experience in healthcare practice as well as to work alongside academic staff to conduct health psychology research and evaluation. The programme has strong links to organisations providing a range of volunteering opportunities as well as external agencies, including the NHS and within the public health sector.

Modules
-Applied Research Methods
-Clinical and Professional Skills in Health Psychology
-Current Topics in Health Psychology
-Health Psychology in Context
-Interventions in Health Psychology
-Research Project

Modules offered may vary.

Teaching

You learn by knowledge and skills acquisition through directive teaching, group discussions, independent exploration and examination of academic resources. You will work with project data, review professional practice scenarios, and will have an opportunity to present a poster at our annual Teesside University Psychology Conference.

The course is delivered by a team of experts with wide-ranging research, consulting and practice expertise. There are also contributions from practitioners working in the fields of research, consultancy, and NHS practice.

Staff areas of specialism include: breast cancer, complementary and alternative therapies, neurological conditions, doctor-patient communications, psychosocial interventions and sexual health. The team has close links with the Psychology Research Unit within the Social Futures Institute (SoFI) and with AskFuse, The Centre for Translational Research in Public Health.

A range of assessment methods is used, from traditional essays and examinations to a critical review, poster presentation, and a video of you conducting a stress management intervention. You will develop a research proposal including a mini systematic review and will reflect on your skills and development. Your final research project is written in the style of a research article.
Previous students have conducted their final project research on topics including:
-The male pill
-Quality of life and the utility of a guided imagery intervention for individuals with motor neurone disease
-Subject and neural indicators of health-related anxiety as a consequence of using the internet
-Experiences of being a mother with epilepsy
-The effectiveness of weight loss management groups
-Stress management
-Chronic disease

Employability

After Stage 1, you can become a Chartered Psychologist by successfully completing Stage 2 training in Health Psychology. This will confer eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC and use the protected title of ‘Health Psychologist’.

The course team includes experienced supervisors of the British Psychological Society Qualification in Health Psychology (QHP Stage 2). The MSc programme additionally provides you with the skills to pursue a PhD and the course team have the expertise to supervise a broad range of health psychology topics.

Following the MSc, our students frequently progress to a PhD, undertake the QHP Stage 2 and obtain posts within academia, the NHS, and public health services.

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