Masters Degrees in Clinical Psychology, United Kingdom

The Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course aims to provide a high level of understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology within healthcare settings and prepares students for professional clinical training.

Key Features of the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology

Performance:

• One of four Psychology departments to achieve a 100% 4* rating (maximum score possible) for the reach and significance of its work in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014. Based on this measure Psychology at Swansea was ranked 14th (out of 82) in the UK.
• Our Psychology department is ranked 5th in the UK for Graduate Prospects by The Times and Sunday Times University League Tables 2018.

Teaching and Employability:

• State-of-the-art technology, with over 20 general purpose research rooms and numerous specialised testing facilities
• Majority of teaching carried out by practicing and/or qualified Clinical Psychologists and related professionals
• Unique range of modules offered
• Proven track record of assisting students’ progression towards clinical psychology training as well as range of clinical mental health-related occupational roles
• Numerous NHS clinical based placements secured, providing valuable experience on the journey to becoming a Clinical Psychologist.

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 Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course will greatly enhance students’ suitability for professional clinical training, for example a three year DClin Clinical Psychology programme at a BPS accredited training centre.

Entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate training programme is extremely competitive, with candidates usually expected to have acquired training and experience beyond degree level. 

The MSc degree provides a valuable academic foundation for future doctoral training in clinical psychology, it is largely theory-based and is designed to address core topics in abnormal and clinical psychology.

Clinical training courses also look for evidence of clinical experience with relevant client groups.

Swansea University does not provide this directly, but work experience (paid and voluntary) may be available through the local NHS Psychology Services. Opportunities may also be available locally through independent and private sector organisations (e.g. Mind Cymru, Headway, private rehabilitation services, etc.). These opportunities are regularly advertised and students are supported in making the most of them. 

Please note this course does not lead to a clinical qualification recognised by the British Psychological Society. 

Modules

Modules on the MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology may include:

• Eating Disorders
• Psychosis
• Personality and Sexual Disorders
• Neuropsychology
• Statistical and Research Methods
• Affective and Somatoform Disorders
• Applied Behaviour Analysis
• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Coping with Chronic Disease
• Psychotherapy
• Research Project

Abnormal and Clinical Psychology Course Structure

The one year, full-time degree for Abnormal and Clinical Psychology requires students to attend the University for two full days a week (normally Monday and Tuesday).

The two-year part-time degree requires students to attend the University for one full day a week.

In the first two semesters taught modules are provided with the research project typically undertaken during the summer months.

On occasion sessions are arranged on other days of the week (e.g. when visiting clinician talks/workshops or employability sessions). 

Teaching is done via group sessions with practical classes provided on research and design topics. These will be assessed via written course work and a written examination. 

Who Should Apply?

The MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology is suitable for:

• 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 looking to complete a PhD by Research in a clinically applied area

Staff Expertise

Many of the College of Human and Health Sciences team are leaders in their specialist fields of research. They undertake novel and original research in a variety of areas, including clinical and health psychology, brain injury, sleep, cognition, neuroscience and developmental psychology.

Find out more about the Psychology team at Swansea University.

Postgraduate Community

The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience. In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.

Student Testimonials

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 (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 (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“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)

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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 innovative MSc programme aims to provide students with a strong knowledge and experience base for progressing to health service careers, particularly those looking to become clinical psychologists and clinical psychology researchers.

The Masters will equip you with an up to date knowledge of relevant theory and practical issues in UK mental health services, and develop the knowledge and skills necessary to undertake research and development in academic and healthcare settings. Students will also have the opportunity to complete a work placement in an applied setting, providing valuable skills and experience that will aid career development.

This programme is intended for graduates in Psychology or related disciplines who are interested in progressing to careers in the health professions as practitioners, researchers or managers, and current health service professionals with a degree in Psychology or related disciplines who wish to enhance skills and knowledge in the areas covered by the programme as part of their continuing professional development. This programme is also intended for those who may want to pursue a postgraduate research degree in areas related in clinical psychology. Please note, however, that the MSc itself does not lead to a clinical qualification.

Modules & structure

The programme comprises two pathways: an Applied Clinical Psychology an a Research in Clinical Psychology pathway undertaken over one year of full-time study, or two years equivalent part-time study. All students on both pathways will complete the following core modules:

Core modules

• Understanding and Treating Psychological Disorders
• Professional Issues in Clinical Psychology
• Statistical Methods
• Research Design and Analysis
• Research Project

For the remaining modules, students will need to choose between the two pathways on the programme.

Students on the Applied Clinical Psychology pathway complete the following module:

• Professional Practice

The key feature of this module is a 35 day work placement in a setting relevant to clinical psychology. This pathway would suit students with limited work experience in areas related to clinical psychology, and who would like to develop a career in a more applied setting.

Students on the Research in Clinical Psychology pathway complete the following modules:

• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• Applied Research Design in Clinical Psychology
• Statistical Data Analysis Project

These modules are designed to provide students with more advanced research knowledge and skills. This pathway would suit students who would like to progress to further postgraduate study, particularly a PhD or DClinPsy, where research skills are key, and/or those students who already have substantial work experience in areas related to clinical psychology.

Assessment

Written and multiple-choice examinations, essay coursework, oral presentation, research dissertation.

Skills

The programme will provide you with knowledge of theory and practical issues relevant to practice in the UK mental health services, with a particular focus on clinical psychology. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills to undertake research in clinical settings and analyse data. You will have the opportunity to develop your own research and career interests by conducting a research project under the supervision of a member of staff and relevant external health services staff. Students on the Applied Clinical Psychology pathway will have the opportunity to complete a work placement where they can gain valuable skills and experience in an applied setting.

Careers

The programme is designed to provide a foundation for graduates who are interested in further developing the academic skills and experience needed to apply for UK Clinical Doctorate programs or for PhD programs in areas related to clinical psychology.

It would also help develop skills and knowledge for those who seek to develop careers in the NHS and with private healthcare providers more generally, including careers in various Allied Health fields and NHS management.

Lastly, the programme is designed to facilitate career progression for those already working in the health sector, by developing new academic skills and experience, particularly in relation to research design and analysis

Find out more about employability at Goldsmiths. 

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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.

About this degree

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 270 credits. Each year students complete modules to the value of 135 credits.

Year one: taught modules (135 credits). Year two: clinical skills modules (35 credits), a clinical practice in context module (15 credits) and the research dissertation (85 credits).

Year one core modules

• Multiple Perspectives on Development Psychopathology I
• Multiple Perspectives on Development Psychopathology II
• 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
• 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 and a poster.

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 coursework, examinations and the dissertation.

Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Developmental Psychology and Clinical Practice MSc

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.

Recent career destinations for this degree

• Mental Health Researcher, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
• Research Assistant, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• PhD in Clinical Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University

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.

Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.

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.

Please note: during the course of the academic year 2018/19, the centre will relocate from Hampstead to a new, purpose-built campus near King's Cross Station.

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.

To read past students' testimonials, please visit the departmental programme page.

Research Excellence Framework (REF)

The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.

The following REF score was awarded to the department: Division of Psychology & Language Sciences

83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)

Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.

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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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Gain foundation knowledge in clinical psychology theory and practice.

As part of this MSc, you will gain an up-to-date knowledge of clinical psychology theory and practice, including research. You will study different ways of understanding mental health problems in adults and children, and share insights into relevant theories and the latest practice models applicable to both UK and international settings.

You will be introduced to the foundation skills of clinical psychology practice, including interviewing, observation and psychometric assessment.

You will also learn about research in healthcare, looking at issues such as research design, governance and ethical considerations before going on to conduct your own piece of research.

Studying clinical psychology at Bath means you will be joining our leading Department of Psychology. The research interests of our members span a broad range of clinically relevant topics, including ageing, common mental health problems, psychosis, autism, persistent physical symptoms, child maltreatment and trauma amongst others.

You will leave this course with:

• excellent research skills that can be applied to primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare settings
• thorough knowledge of clinical psychology approaches, theories and models
• a strong foundation for further postgraduate training in clinical psychology or work as an assistant psychologist

This course is intended for psychology graduates interested in careers as practitioners, researchers or managers. It will also appeal to current health service professionals with a degree in psychology or a related discipline, who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Graduate prospects

Studying this course will set you up with the knowledge and professional skills required to move into a range of health service careers. It is particularly good preparation for securing work as an assistant psychologist, and a strong foundation for further postgraduate training in clinical psychology.

This course is not professionally accredited and will not provide you with a license to practice.

Join our webinar

Join our webinar on Wednesday 28 February 2018 at 12:00-13.00 GMT.

During the webinar you will be able to find about:

• course structure and content
• teaching and assessment
• studying at the University of Bath

There will also be an opportunity to put your questions to our staff.

Register for the webinar.

Course structure

This course lasts 1 year. Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

Units

Compulsory course units

These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.

Semester 1

• Fundamentals of clinical and health psychology
• Fundamentals of clinical psychology practice
• Advanced research design in health
• Multivariate statistics for use in health contexts

Semester 2

• Fundamentals of clinical and health psychology
• Fundamentals of clinical psychology practice
• Advanced qualitative analysis
• Clinical research apprenticeship

Summer

• Applied clinical psychology dissertation

Learning and assessment

Learning

• Laboratory sessions
• Lectures
• Online resources
• Practical sessions
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops

Assessment

• Coursework
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Oral assessment
• Portfolio
• Practical work
• Other

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Your programme of study

Do you want to enrich your skills to become highly proficient in practice and development in Psychology? Do you want to make a difference to the life of communities and individuals by promoting psychological well being? According to the British Psychological Society there are over 750 000 people working in positions that involve Psychology as part of their role.

If you have an undergraduate degree or equivalent in Psychology or a similar field but you want to boost your chances of gaining highly competitive positions such as: Assistant Psychologist, Clinical Associate Training or Doctoral Qualification in Clinical Psychology this programme is specifically designed to give you an edge and improve and hone your skills and knowledge within this field. You learn at the highly regarded Medical School which is ranked in the top 10 places to study in the UK, and research is in the top 20 (REF 2014) at one of the largest medical campuses in Europe.

You are taught by practicing Clinical Psychologists with access to a range of facilities and specialists from similar disciplines. You get advanced training in assessments, formulation skills, core clinical skills, lifespan, ethical and professional issues and research methods and you learn within a clinical project with local supervisors to carry out treatment. There are excellent links with NHS Grampian and other health services.

Read more about careers in Clinical Psychology

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

• Introduction to the Postgraduate Process and Professional Research Skills 1
• Core Psychology Research Methods
• Key Issues and Debates in Clinical Psychology
• Clinical Psychology Across the Lifespan: Core Areas

Semester 2

• Core Clinical Skills - Practitioner and Lived Experience Perspectives
• Clinical Research Methods
• Clinical Psychology Across the Lifespan: Specialist Areas
• Ethical and Professional Issues in Clinical Psychology

Semester 3

• Clinical Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

Why study at Aberdeen?

• You study at one of the oldest centres for study of Psychology with research which continues today and evaluates new and important areas
• You are taught by practitioners based at Foresterhill Campus and Royal Cornhill Psychiatric Hospital. The School of Psychology is ranked in the top 20 for research (REF 2014) and the Medical School is ranked in the top 10 in the UK

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen

International Student Fees 2017/2018

£16900

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Find out more about fees

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

Your Accommodation

• Catered Accommodation
• Self-Catering     

Campus Facilities

• University of Aberdeen: A Global Community
• University of Aberdeen: We are international
• Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies
• Sport
• Societies
• Review

Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs

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Psychology explores many aspects of the human condition including our thoughts, feelings, decisions and behaviours. Study Clinical Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London and you’ll develop a deep understanding of the treatment and assessment of mental illness and behavioural problems.

This comprehensive programme will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to pursue a career in a mental health setting or mental health research, with topics including clinical assessment, the principles of evidence-based treatments and wellbeing. You’ll learn in tutorial groups from our enthusiastic expert academics, with a mix of seminar, lecture and research-based teaching providing exciting academic variety.

The Department of Psychology is research intensive and well equipped, and you’ll enjoy access to a range of cutting-edge technologies including an on-site MRI scanner, eye tracking technology, EEG machines, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) equipment, and a baby lab.

You’ll graduate with a range of transferable skills to take into further PhD study or your future career, including advanced research training and communication skills for working with clients, patients, and families. We provide excellent employability skills for graduates. Our notable alumni include leading bioscience innovator Professor Jackie Hunter CBE, Terrence Higgins Trust founder Dr Rupert Whitaker, and Dr Christian Jarrett – author of The Rough Guide to Psychology. 

• Students develop applicable skills and knowledge to pursue a career in a mental health setting or mental health research.
• Study in a department ranked 6^th in the UK for research (The Research Excellence Framework 2014)
• Gain a range of transferable skills to take into your future career.

Course structure

This course can be studied full time in one year or part-time over two to five years.

The MSc in Clinical Psychology offers specialised training from clinical practitioners and researchers and was developed in collaboration with our Clinical Doctorate team. This programme is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills to pursue a career in a mental health setting or in mental health research. You will develop an enhanced understanding of the subject area, including topics on clinical assessment, the principles of evidence-based treatments, and well-being, through an exciting mix of seminars, lectures and research conveyed by our friendly and accessible staff, who are all involved in cutting edge research.

Core courses

• Adjustment and Well-Being 
• Advanced and Applied Research Techniques 
• Clinical Assessment and Treatment Approaches 
• Professional Clinical Practice and Skills 
• Statistics for Research 
• Clinical Dissertation  

Optional courses

In addition to the core courses, students choose one of the following options:

• Psychology in Applied Settings 
• Topics in Psychological Science 
• Cognitive, Social and Neuroscience Approaches for Forensic Investigations 
• Clinical Psychology Placement 

Teaching & assessment

Teaching and learning is delivered primarily through sessions lasting between one-and-a-half and five hours. These typically combine seminar discussions with practical exploration or workshops. Where possible, these will be student-led, with participants encouraged to devise exercises engaging with the relevant issues and to direct fellow-students in these experiments.

We place emphasis on group discussion and the development of independent thought and analysis appropriate to carry out an independent piece of research of high quality, in an area of interest to you. In some contributing modules, you will give oral presentations which form part of the formative assessment. Summative assessment is usually by extended essay, although there are written exams for modules focussing on methodology and statistics.

Your future career

Graduate with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London and you’ll be well-placed to progress to further postgraduate study or to a rewarding career in mental health. The skills and knowledge you’ll gain while studying Clinical Psychology will be of immense benefit if you wish to apply to a DClin Psy programme, and subsequently go on to practice as a clinical psychologist.

Please note that this MSc does not lead to a professional qualification as a clinical psychologist, nor does this module guarantee you entry onto a Clinical Psychology doctorate programme.

Royal Holloway's Department of Psychology is one of the most highly regarded psychology departments in the country, and we work hard to provide our students with the help and advice they need to achieve their postgraduate career ambitions. We hold annual ‘Meet the Grads’ events where students can get help and advice from our successful alumni, while a dedicated online forum provides students with the information they need to prepare for postgraduate life.

• 90% of Royal Holloway graduates are within work or further education within six months of graduating.
• We have close links with local organisations including the Macular Society, Southern Addictions Advisory Service and Bishop Creighton House provide rewarding placement opportunities.

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The programme provides you with understanding and experience of the research methods and techniques appropriate for applied settings.

There is a taught component with a focus on the specialist skills and methods required to conduct and evaluate psychological research in clinical settings. There are also two research placements and a final research project which are all supervised by staff affiliated to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology programme or working in clinical areas.

Successful students should graduate with skills and experience to strengthen their applications for PhD research, DClinPsy training, clinical research and/or Assistant Psychologist posts.

• MRes Clinical Psychology recruitment FAQs (PDF 157KB)
• How to complete your MRes Clinical Psychology application (PDF 156KB)

Course details

This programme will equip you with research skills that will be helpful when working towards a career in clinical or other applied psychology fields, or in clinical research.

Programme content

The programme will consist of two research placements and a research project, supervised by staff affiliated to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology programme or working in clinical areas. Taught components cover issues such as:

• Practical, ethical and professional issues in applied research
• Audit, evaluation, and research for service-planning
• Questionnaire design and survey research
• Qualitative research
• Outcome research
• Single case and small n designs
• Writing a literature review 
• Interview skills

Learning and teaching

The programme will consist of two research placements and a research project, supervised by staff affiliated to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology programme or working in clinical areas. Taught components cover issues such as:

• Practical, ethical and professional issues in applied research
• Audit, evaluation, and research for service-planning
• Questionnaire design and survey research
• Qualitative research
• Outcome research
• Single case and small n designs
• Writing a literature review 
• Interview skills

Employability

This programme will equip you with research skills that will be helpful when working towards a career in clinical or other applied psychology fields, or in clinical research. 

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The Masters in the Foundations of Clinical Psychology offers a curriculum in which the central aim is to provide an educational experience which sets the profession of Clinical Psychology into a European and International context. Home students on this clinical psychology related MSc will have an appreciation of international professional issues and international students will gain an understanding of how to apply the principles of clinical psychology to developing service provision in their home countries, as well as gaining an understanding of service provision within the UK. This MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology programme will serve as an academic stepping stone to completion of a PhD in Psychology and will supplement students’ experience for application to professional training offered by Doctoral Programmes in Clinical Psychology. This programme is approved by The British Psychological Society Learning Centre for the purposes of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Completion of an MSc is not a prerequisite for entry to a Doctoral Programme in Clinical Psychology. International students are advised to visit the Clearing House website for more information on application to Doctoral Programmes in Clinical Psychology: http://www.leeds.ac.uk/chpccp/internationalquals.html

Introducing your course

Start on a rewarding and knowledge enhancing path towards a career as a psychologist with the MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology at the University of Southampton. 

Learn more about the key therapy skills of a clinical psychologist and their application in a multi-cultural setting, along with leadership and management skills for work in all sectors. Begin your journey in applying psychology to working with people through the MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology.

Overview

This Foundations of Clinical Psychology masters programme extends over one calendar year. The core taught component of the programme extends over two semesters, with teaching taking place on two days a week, although attendance at other times may be required.

View the programme specification document for this course

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