Masters Degrees in Psychology of Mental Health, United Kingdom

The online Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health course aims to provide a comprehensive and integrated exploration of our current understanding of the psychological and neuroscientific basis of mental health.

By drawing on the wealth of research, education and clinical expertise and experience across our world-renowned Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), the course will appeal to those with a personal interest in the area of psychology, neuroscience and mental health, and who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills base.

Key Benefits

• The course is delivered 100% online and there is no need to attend the campus. Students work in small, interactive classes with academic staff, and also receive additional support and guidance.
• Cutting edge expertise: impact of the IoPPN’s work was 100% world leading or internationally excellent, and our research environment was judged as 100% world leading (Research Excellence Framework, 2014).
• Online access to teaching materials developed from experts across Kings College London, providing a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective of important mental health problems.
• Support to develop and demonstrate research and critical appraisal skills that will permit appreciation, interpretation and reporting of research evidence, as preparation for research or further education.

This course is ideal for people who are:

• Seeking employment as a graduate research worker
• Wishing to progress to doctoral study
• Already working in or planning to undertake further study to work in mental health as a practitioner or policy maker.

It will also enhance the knowledge and skills base for those with a personal interest in the area of psychology, neuroscience and mental health.

Description

The Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert provides a comprehensive and integrated exploration of our current understanding of the psychological and neuroscientific basis of mental health. It draws upon the wealth of research, education, clinical expertise and experience across the worldrenowned Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN). The online master’s course promotes an understanding of the evidence base for comprehending the biological, psychological and socio-environmental factors important in the development and maintenance of mental health, and evidence underlining= the development and efficacy of the range of treatments of mental health problems. IoPPN teaching staff are senior scientists, clinicians, and educators. Scientists will showcase cutting edge research into the causes and treatment of mental health problems; clinicians will be presenting current best practice in treatment approaches, and students will be supported by a team of educators with vast experience of designing and delivering scientific, clinical and applied education and training.

The MSc pathway requires modules totalling 180 credits to complete the programme, 60 of which will come from a dissertation of around 10,000 words. The Research Dissertation comprises four advanced modules that will provide you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in understanding the design, development and dissemination of research evidence. These modules also draw upon the knowledge and skills you have learnt during the course.

The Postgraduate Diploma pathway requires modules with a minimum total of 120 credits to complete the course, and the Postgraduate Certificate route requires modules with a total of 60 credits to complete.

If you are studying full-time, you will complete the course in two years, from September to September. If you are studying part-time, your course will take up to six years to finish.

• You can expect to gain a solid foundation of concepts and theories underpinning our current understanding of mental health and the variety of methods used in research and treatment.
• You will develop a clear understanding of the complementary relationship between psychological and neuroscientific approaches to the study and management of mental health problems.
• You will develop an understanding of different levels of analysis of the causes and mechanisms of mental health problems from the molecular and cellular to the social and environmental in a range of important mental health problems.
• You will develop an understanding of the ways in which current treatments work, both biological and psychological, and learn about new treatments that are emerging from cutting-edge research.
• You will learn core research and critical appraisal skills that will permit appreciation, interpretation and reporting of research evidence, as preparation for research or further training.

The postgraduate certificate is an ideal starting point for people already working within mental health fields who wish to enhance their education in order to progress in their career. As a stand-alone qualification, the postgraduate certificate will enable nurses, social workers, community workers and other professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the biological, social, environmental and psychological foundations of mental health. It is also an ideal entry point for students who hold a second class undergraduate degree.

Teaching

The programme is delivered entirely online. There are video lectures, coursework including critical appraisal of published work, essays and abstracts and self-directed learning activities. Assessment will include discussion board participation, multiple choice question and short answer question examinations.

Assessment 

MSc | PG Dip | PG Cert - Two multiple choice examinations (40%) | Short essay examination (50%) | Discussion Board Particiaption (10%) 

Career prospects

At King’s you’ll enter into one of the world’s most competitive student bodies and join a legacy of graduates that are sought out by some of the leading employers in the field. 

 The Psychology & Neuroscience of Mental Health MSc will:

• Benefit those wishing to become a graduate research worker, and will optimise opportunities for PhD training. It will also provide a stepping stone towards professional training as a mental health practitioner.
• Enhance the career profile of those already working clinically in the field of mental health by increasing understanding and knowledge of the subject area which will help to inform clinical practice.
• Provide transferable skills and knowledge that can benefit a number of career paths.

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The MSc in the Psychology of Mental Health aims to give students a broad understanding of current issues in mental health care in the UK. This course also offers students an excellent theoretical and practical grounding in psychological research methods.

Why study Psychology of Mental Health at Dundee?

The MSc in the Psychology of Mental Health draws upon the recognised expertise of numerous research-active and clinical staff, and will address a broad range of material, including the scientific study of mental health problems, addiction and eating disorders. In addition to being of interest to those wishing to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology the course will also provide suitable training for those who wish to study for a PhD and would be suitable for professionals working with children or adults with a range of psychological disorders. In addition, this course will provide overseas students with a basic training for job opportunities in their home countries.

As part of the course, students will have the opportunity to complete a research dissertation. This will be jointly supervised by staff from the School of Psychology and a practicing Clinical Psychologist from NHS Tayside.

Please note, completion of this course does not entitle graduates to practice as Applied Psychologists.

Aims of the Programme

This course will enable you to:
Pursue and develop the advanced study of research methods in Psychology and in particular to address contemporary issues of epistemology, data collection, measurement and data analysis.
Approach problems in research by critical evaluation of existing psychological paradigms and research literature and to apply this to current theoretical or applied issues in Psychology.
Develop advanced research skills which will be relevant to policy and practice in the workplace.
Develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in research design, methodology and statistical analysis.
Develop and demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of current research in a specialised field of mental health
engage in the analysis, synthesis, planning, execution and evaluation of research at an advanced level.
Make an original contribution to scientific knowledge, methodology or practice in a research project either grounded in experimental psychology or in an applied area relevant to the learner's employment.
Develop and practice dissemination and presentation skills to peers and to wider academic and professional audiences.
Provide an advanced understanding of scientific issues in the chosen topic specialisation.

Who should study this course?

Psychology graduates wishing to enhance their knowledge of Psychology of Mental Health
Graduates considering a professional training in a developmental field, such as Educational or Clinical Psychology
Psychology graduates intending to progress to a PhD in Clinical Psychology

Postgraduate culture

We have a close postgraduate community with a diverse combination of nationalities. The School runs a Postgraduate seminar and a departmental seminar twice weekly throughout teaching semesters, with invited speakers to the seminars. These seminars are a great way to broaden your awareness of contemporary issues within the field of Psychology, to present your own work, and to network with other postgraduate students.

The School of Psychology also has its own Facebook group, where you can find out more about their activities.

How you will be taught

A variety of teaching methods will be used, including: small group teaching, supervised study, tutorial sessions, seminars, presentations, invited speakers and discussion groups, lectures, practical classes and demonstrations. Joint dissertation supervision by clinical and academic members of staff is designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and provide continuity in the learning experiences.

Learning methods will include oral and written presentations, peer assessments of oral presentations, problem-solving assignments and feedback. Some of the exercises will be group-based. Learners will be expected to be able to respond adequately to questions.
What you will study

Core modules:

Research Foundations
Qualitative Research Methods
Advanced Quantitative Methods
Foundations of Adult Mental Health
Current Issues in Psychological Health Care
Research Dissertation
One Advanced Module, typically from:

Developmental Psychopathology
Altered States of Consciousness
Social, Emotional and Moral Development
Evolution and Behaviour
Health in Groups
Find out more about the modules offered from the course webpage.

How you will be assessed

The course is assessed by coursework only.

Each module is worth 20 credits apart from the Research Dissertation Module which is worth 60 credits. The total number of credits awarded is 180 for an MSc course.

Careers

The course will provide a first year of research training for students intending to continue with postgraduate research or further professional training within mental health or Clinical Psychology.

We expect that this course will significantly improve the chances of students gaining a place on Clinical Psychology Courses as well as providing overseas students with a basic training for job opportunities in their home countries.

Overseas Academic Scholarships

The School of Psychology offers three Overseas Academic Scholarships of £3,000 each to overseas (international) taught postgraduate students. These awards are competitive based on academic merit and a personal statement which details and supports the applicant's interest in their chosen taught postgraduate programme. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is 30th June 2014.

A 5% discount on tuition fees is applicable for international applicants to the School of Psychology who pay the full amount (for the year), in advance, by a given deadline. Please visit our 5% discount webpage for full details.

Other sources of funding for postgraduate students can be found on our Scholarships webpage.

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The UCL Division of Psychiatry is pleased to offer this programme focused on clinical practice in mental health and its evidence base. The Clinical Mental Health Sciences MSc integrates biological, psychological and social perspectives on mental health and caters both for psychology graduates and for clinicians wishing to undertake a broad-based, rigorous and flexible higher degree.

Degree information

Students will develop an in-depth understanding of current evidence regarding mental health problems and the interventions provided to address them, as well as enhancing their research skills. A wide range of options from across the School of Life and Medical Sciences at UCL allows students to tailor a programme that fully fits their needs.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of 1–2 core double modules (30–60 credits), 4–6 optional modules (60–90 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits). A diploma may be awarded to students who complete the equivalent of 8 taught single modules, amounting to 120 credits. A certificate may be awarded to students who complete the equivalent of 4 taught single modules, amounting to 60 credits.

Core modules
-Core Principles of Mental Health Research (double module)
-Clinical Mental Health (double module – compulsory only for those who do not have at least six months’ full-time experience, or the equivalent, of working in mental health settings).

Optional modules - students who take the Clinical Mental Health module will choose at least one option (15 credits) from the following:
-Current Research in Depression and Anxiety
-Current Research in Dementia
-Current Research in Learning Disability
-Current Research in Psychosis
-Mental Health Services – Policy, Design and Evaluation
-Culture in the Clinic
-Advanced Treatment and Management of Dementia (only to be taken if Current Research in Dementia has already been taken)

Please note: Students who do not take the Clinical Mental Health module will select at least three modules (45 credits) from the above list. Any UCL modules approved by the Programme Director can be selected to make up the remaining credit(s). Note that due to timetable clashes only one Institute of Child Health module may be taken by each student. Approved options, from across UCL, include:
-Ethnicity, Migration and Health (Department of Epidemiological and Social Methods in Public Health)
-Social Determinants of Health (Department of Epidemiology and Public Health)
-Higher Functions of the Brain (Institute of Neurology)
-Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Child Mental Health (UCL Institute of Child Health)
-Interventions in Child and Adolescent Mental Health – Psychological (UCL Institute of Child Health)
-Quality Improvements in Health (UCL CHIME)
-Neuroimaging: Introductory Science and Methods (Institute of Neurology)
-Neuroimaging: Imaging Modalities (Institute of Neurology)
-Treatment in Child and Adolescent Mental Health - Pharmacological (UCL Institute of Child Health)

(Note that due to timetable clashes only one UCL Institute of Child Health module may be taken by each student)

NB: due to timetable clashes only one UCL Institute of Child Health module may be taken by each student.

Research project/report
All students undertake a final project. This may be a research project, to be reported as a paper of 6,000-8,000 words ready for submission to a specified journal, a blog of 1,000 words and a 20-minute talk, or a clinical project of 10,000 words reporting on a clinical topic or service evaluation.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars and workshops, with considerable use of supporting online learning. Assessment methods include one unseen examination, coursework including designing questionnaires and protocols and analysing data, giving talks and presenting posters, and a final report in the format of a journal paper or brief for clinicians or service planners.

Placement
The programme team support students in obtaining volunteer placements in relevant mental health care and research settings, but this is not a formal part of the course and is entirely optional.

Careers

For non-clinicians, the programme will be an excellent grounding for clinical training, such as in clinical psychology, or for embarking on a research career in mental health. Many graduates go on to research assistant, clinical support worker or assistant psychologist posts as a first destination. For clinicians, this is a great opportunity to gain a higher qualification through a programme based in a leading university department which can be closely tailored to your interests across clinical, research and management fields.

Employability
Students will be taught by leading experts in their fields, will gain a strong clinical understanding of mental health, and will be able to develop their skills in research, service design and evaluation, and writing and presenting. Previous Division of Psychiatry Master’s graduates have been enthusiastic about their career enhancement, both through their programme and the connections they have made through it. A large proportion of our first cohort of graduates have gone on to paid employment in relevant areas of mental health, especially research assistant, clinical support worker, psychological wellbeing practitioner and assistant psychologist posts. Others have embarked on PhD studies.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL has a cluster of international experts in mental health, including in genetics, epidemiology, and applied clinical research, and most are also clinicians. We are able to offer a broad programme encompassing both cutting-edge research and a clinical perspective.

The programme is strongly focused on student participation, with much use of small-group learning, and the environment in the Division of Psychiatry is stimulating, friendly and supportive.

A wide range of options at UCL allows programmes to be tailored to students’ needs and interests in clinical, research and management domains.

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Working in mental health can be demanding but rewarding. Gain the skills to become an approved mental health professional (AMHP) who practises safely and effectively.

As an AMHP, you will need to act independently and assertively, taking accountability for the decisions you make. Approved by the Health & Care Professions Council, your course will give you the skills to be an effective practitioner with a comprehensive understanding of current legislation. By looking at issues such as asylum, substance misuse and how adult mental health relates to child protection, you will be well prepared for the responsibilities of the role.

Studying alongside peers from areas such as social work, nursing and psychology, you will share and learn from different viewpoints, broadening your perspective of mental health issues. Teaching is delivered by professionals who have extensive expertise in mental health provision, many of whom are already AMHPs.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: 20% of our research in the Public Health, Health Services and Primary Care unit is world leading or internationally excellent.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/mentalhealth_pgcert

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

We're committed to helping you realise your career ambitions, which is why we place employability at the centre of your learning. Our fantastic links with industry enable us to design courses knowing exactly what employers are looking for, so you'll be well prepared for the world of work.

- Approved Mental Health Practitioner

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You'll be taught by professionals who have extensive expertise in mental health provision - many of whom are already AMHPs or experts within mental health services - and by a practicing solicitor who specialises in mental health law. You'll also hear from service users who are experiencing mental distress, giving you a first-hand insight into the topic.

Modules

Perspectives on Mental Distress
Study the numerous approaches to understanding mental disorder and how they are utilised in practice. You will also look at how approaches to mental health (disorder) have developed from large institutional approaches to the present-day community care.

Approved Mental Health Professional Practice
Increase your skills and knowledge regarding the roles and responsibilities of an AMHP.

Mental Health Law and Policy
You will gain in-depth understanding of mental health legislation and its application in practice, including up to date and practical applications of The Mental Health Act and related legislation.

Professor Ieuan Ellis

Dean, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences

"We have a long history of providing education across a wide range of professional and academic disciplines in health, applied global ethics, social sciences and related subject areas... The Faculty has a number of areas of research excellence."

Ieuan is responsible for the strategic leadership of the Faculty of Health and Social sciences. He is also a member of Academic Board, and an elected staff representative on the Board of Governors. He is also Chair of the UK Council of Deans of Health and Co-chair of the National Allied Health Professions Advisory Board. After practicing as a chartered physiotherapist in the NHS and private sector, Ieuan entered higher education working initially at Northumbria University prior to joining our University. Ieuan has held a number of leadership and management roles across health and social care education and was awarded a personal chair as Professor in Healthcare Education.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Clinical Skills Suite
The £1 million suite has been designed to meet the learning needs of a range of health professionals, with specialist equipment in purpose-built rooms enabling a variety of sessions to be carried out in a suitable and safe environment.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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This programme offers a stimulating and practical training in mental health research. The UCL Division of Psychiatry offers teaching and supervision from leaders in international research in fields from neuroscientific to social and epidemiological, along with a range of relevant options from other leading UCL departments. This diversity of options allows students to tailor a programme that closely fits their needs.

Degree information

This programme will equip students with the research skills needed to undertake doctoral-level research and/or to collaborate in major research projects. They will produce a piece of original research ready to submit for publication, and will acquire current knowledge of cutting-edge research in mental health.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of two core modules (45 credits), five optional modules (75 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Core modules
-Core Principles of Mental Health Research (double module)
-Statistical Methods in Mental Health

Optional modules - students will select at least 60 credits from the following modules of which at least 30 credits must be from the Division of Psychiatry’s own modules:
-Culture in the Clinic
-Current Research in Depression and Anxiety
-Current Research in Dementia
-Current Research in Learning Disability
-Current Research in Psychosis
-Epidemiological and Social Methods in Mental Health (double module)
-Introduction to Biological Research in Mental Health
-Mental Health Services – Policy, Design and Evaluation

Other approved modules:
-Cellular and Molecular Modules of Disease (Institute of Neurology)
-Ethnicity, Migration and Health (Department of Epidemiology & Public Health)
-Health Inequalities across the Lifecourse (Department of Epidemiology and Public Health)
-Higher Functions of the Brain (Institute of Neurology)
-Neuroimaging: Introductory Science and Methods (Institute of Neurology)
-Neuroimaging: Imaging Modalities (Institute of Neurology)
-Social Determinants of Global Health (Department of Epidemiology and Public Health)
-Or any other module approved by the Programme Director as having a large research component relevant to mental health.

The final 15 credits may be obtained from any available module at UCL, subject to the Programme Director approving the overall selection for each student.

Final report
All students undertake a final research project. This is reported as a research paper of 6,000-8,000 words ready for submission to a specified journal, a blog of 1,000 words and a 20-minute talk.

Teaching and learning
This programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and practical workshops, with considerable use of supporting online learning. Assessment methods include unseen exams, coursework including designing questionnaires and systematic review strategies, developing protocols, analysing data, giving talks and presenting posters. There is a strong emphasis on developing practical research skills.

Careers

This new programme will equip graduates with strong practical research skills and understanding of the current status and direction of mental health research in their area of interest, preparing them to pursue doctoral studies, including through applications for nationally funded fellowships. Clinicians will be equipped to participate fully in collaborative studies and to begin to function as independent investigators. For those without clinical qualifications, the programme is likely to assist students in embarking on a career in mental health research by obtaining research posts and opportunities for PhD places.

Employability
Students will be taught by and carry out projects with leading researchers at the cutting-edge of their fields, learning about research directly from experts rather than from textbooks. Previous Division of Psychiatry MSc graduates have had a strong track record of publishing papers based on their research projects in peer-reviewed journals, and of going on to further academic posts and to doctoral studies.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL has a cluster of international research leaders in mental health in fields including genetics, epidemiology, and applied clinical research. Optional modules provide an entrance to other renowned departments at UCL e.g. in neuroscience and epidemiology.

The programme is strongly focused on student participation and acquisition of the practical skills needed to embark on a career in research. The wide range of research interests within our division allows us to offer a programme that integrates biological and psychosocial approaches.

We offer opportunities to get involved in the work of internationally significant research groups in a stimulating, friendly and supportive atmosphere.

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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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Programme description

This programme offers a unique perspective: that children and young people’s mental health and well-being is influenced by developmental processes at multiple levels, from individual to socio-cultural and that approaches to working with mental health and well-being need to be informed by this dynamic and interactional system.

By drawing on the knowledge and clinical experience of a world-class department of clinical and health psychology, the programme aims to equip students with the knowledge necessary for understanding children and young people’s mental health and well-being from this unique perspective. The programme will also draw upon many other theoretical areas, including early intervention, health promotion, public health, health and social inequalities, critical psychology, developmental psychopathology and resilience.

The programme is part time, fully online, and has been designed with professionals in mind; the online delivery format and part-time study options allow for professionals from a range of disciplinary backgrounds to develop knowledge and practice whilst continuing to meet individual life and work demands.

The core elements of the programme include both conceptual and applied courses. At the conceptual level, the programme will review different theories of children and young people’s mental health involved in the complex structure of typical and atypical development. At the applied level it will include the application of psychological knowledge to difficulties experienced by children and young people and the critical appraisal of psychological knowledge and practice.

Distinctive features of the course, include:

- the critical integration of clinical and professional practice with current theoretical and empirical developments in the evidence base for, and delivery of, mental health programmes for children and young people;
- flexibility of delivery;
- opportunities for knowledge exchange between range of graduates and practitioners from multi-professional backgrounds; and
- many opportunities for the synthesis of theory, evidence and practice

Graduates of the programme can expect to develop key skills and abilities, which are transferable to a number of professional domains, including:

- knowledge and understanding of the developmental and well-being literature;
- research and enquiry skills;
- personal and intellectual autonomy skills;
- technical and practical skills; and
- communication skills

Programme structure

This programme offers a flexible postgraduate degree designed for recent graduates and professionals who are interested in studying at an advanced level.

The programme is designed to be completed part-time. The minimum period the course can be completed is two years, with a maximum completion time of six years.

There are a number of qualification routes available; students enrol on the MSc programme pathway and can exit at any of the following qualification junctures:

- Postgraduate Certificate;
- Postgraduate Diploma; or
- MSc

Courses offered as part of the programme include:

- Developmental Wellbeing;
- Social Inequality and Child and Adolescent Mental Health;
- Research Methods in Applied Psychology;
- Applied Developmental Psychopathology;
- Trauma and Resilience in a Developmental Context; and
- Critical Psychology and Child Mental Health;

The dissertation project takes the form of a systematic review or meta-analysis relating to an aspect of psychological theory, or a psychological model, with relevance to clinical practice in the field of child and adolescent mental health and well-being.

Career opportunities

The programme has been designed to enhance the career development of a range of professions involved in the provision of psychological health and care by improving awareness and application of psychological theory to clinical practice and by broadening the theoretical base from which professions practice.

Previous students have continued to work in, or entered, a range of professions including:

- Clinical practice;
- Nursing;
- Social work and social care;
- Teaching; and
- Voluntary sector organisations

Recent graduates interested in working in the area of child and adolescent mental health would also benefit from this programme. The degree demonstrates a student's high level of commitment to working with children and young people.

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This master's degree is aimed at students who are currently employed in / or who desire to be employed in a forensic mental health setting. The course is designed to equip graduates with an extensive knowledge of theoretical and practical issues in forensic mental health and a critical awareness of the current philosophical, theoretical and methodological problems, debates and insights that shape the discipline.

Why choose this course?

This course is designed to give graduates an in-depth knowledge of forensic mental health. You will gain a critical understanding of the academic knowledge associated with the context of practice in forensic mental health and you will gain a critical appreciation of ethical, cultural, and legal issues arising from mental health practice and research.

This master's degree is aimed at students who are currently employed in / or who desire to be employed in a forensic, forensic mental health, or mental health setting, for example:

- prisons
- secure hospitals
- Ministry of Justice
- Police Force
- courts.

Modules

Modules may include:
Prison, Rehabilitation and Aftercare
Clinical Research Methods
Theory and Application to Mental Health
Contemporary Issues in Mental Health
Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology
Forensic Mental Health
Research and Professional Skills
Specialist Psychology Essay
Research Project / Dissertation

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

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 undergraduate teaching laboratory suite and a second 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.

Delivery and assessment

The course is delivered through lectures, interactive workshops, small-group teaching and learning and one-on-one supervision by forensic practitioners and academic staff with considerable experience of working within a variety of forensic contexts in the UK.

This taught programme is supported by a team of approachable staff and will be delivered through lectures, workshops and small reflective practice groups. All staff teaching on the course are research-active in their field of interest and students will have access to the extensive facilities within the Division of Psychology and the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). For individuals who do not wish to complete the MSc, a postgraduate certificate in Forensic Mental Health will be offered.

International students in psychology can also access additional language and study skills support, as well as help in acclimatising, via our own International Student Support Officer.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways and on a modular basis through:

coursework
essays
literature reviews
oral presentations
professional reports.

Career opportunities

When you graduate with an MSc Forensic Mental Health you will have the necessary skills to pursue professional careers in a range of mental health, forensic mental health or forensic settings. You may choose to study this course if you already work in this area and you hope to improve your prospects of promotion and career progression.

You may also want to pursue an academic and / or research career in a number of academic disciplines following graduation (by working as a research assistant or associate, for example, or by studying for a PhD). Psychology graduates with BPS GBR status may also be interested in this course if they are considering doctoral study towards a career as a clinical or counselling psychologist.

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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Gain significant recognition in your field whilst continuing to work in your own team, with our course for health and social care staff aiming to become Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs).

Our course combines practice and theory to offer you the most effective learning experience. With the support from your employer, you'll shadow your local AMHP duty team to gain a valuable insight into the role. You’ll also study in university over a six-month period, while working two days a week in your own team.

You’ll learn beside a variety of professionals, from expert practitioners and service users to law professional trainers and psychiatric staff. We’ll also encourage you to visit services, such as older people wards or Child and Adolescent Mental Health, to gain further experience in clinical practice.

Before starting the course, we’ll visit you to put together a learning programme that best suits you and your teams. To prepare you for your first day, you’ll be expected to attend a five day pre-AMHP course in either August or September.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/part-time/mental-health-practice-pgcert

Careers

Successfully completing this course, you'll be eligible to apply for AMHP registration through your Mental Health Trust, having met the Health & Care Professions Council's (HCPC) requirements for the role. You'll enhance your employment opportunities with sought-after skills which meet the regulations of the Mental Health Act 2008.

Supported by local employers, our professional vocational course is designed to promote professionals’ qualifications in mental health practice and to fill the shortage of AMHPs nationally.

Modules & Assessment

Core modules:
‌• Mental Health Law
‌• Statutory Mental Health Practice

Please note that you will need to complete all of the above core modules. This course does not have any optional modules. Modules are subject to change.

Assessment

We'll assess the skills and knowledge you'll develop in a variety of ways. For example, a written assignment examining themes in mental health legislation or a multiple choice questionnaire exploring law. As part of your placement we'll provide you with a practice document outlining key competencies, which you'll evidence with a portfolio. Your Practice Educator will also produce a report on how you've applied what you've learnt.

Where you'll study

The Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education is the largest provider of health, social care and education courses in the East of England, with over 6,000 students from more than 20 countries.

With 95% of our students finding full-time employment within six months of graduating, you can be sure that our courses have been designed with your career in mind. We’ve been educating nurses, midwives and social workers for over 25 years.

At the cutting edge of research, we offer a range of internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses taught by friendly and experienced staff.

Designed to enhance your learning experience, our facilities include state-of-the-art simulated skills laboratories that mirror real-life clinical situations and UK hospital wards. Our students also benefit from our Early Childhood Research and Resource Centre; a space in which they can experiment with equipment and play activities.

You’ll study in an exciting, modern faculty which has strong links with regional, national and international organisations, including healthcare trusts, schools and academic institutions.

Your enthusiasm. Our passion. Your best foot forward.

Visit your faculty - http://www.anglia.ac.uk/health-social-care-and-education

Where can I study?

Fulbourn - You'll study at Ida Darwin, a 32-acre hospital in Fulbourn, home to Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT).
http://www.cpft.nhs.uk/

Additional study information -

Practice placements are a significant part of the course, running for 45 days, spread across seven months. You’ll shadow practitioners and lead mental health assessments, supported by a Practice Educator, who'll manage and oversee your practice experience.

Placements are arranged through Local Authorities and Mental Health Trusts in conjunction with our university.

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The new Dementia MSc is offered jointly by the UCL Division of Psychiatry and Institute of Neurology and tackles one of the biggest global health problems facing society today. It provides research-oriented and cutting-edge training in the study of dementia and its scientific basis, led by international leaders in the science and practice of dementia. Two specialised pathways, in mental health and in neuroscience, are offered.

Degree information

The mental health pathway focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge of the prevention, detection and management of the dementias using epidemiological, psychosocial and clinical trial approaches, and is aimed at graduates wishing to explore or begin a research career in dementia. More information about the neuroscience pathway is also available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists five or six core modules (90 or 120 credits), one or two optional modules (if only five core modules are taken) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Core modules
-Current Research in Dementia (15 credits)
-Advanced Treatment and Management of Dementia (15 credits)
-Core Principles of Mental Health Research (30 credits)
-Statistical Methods in Mental Health (15 credits)
-Clinical Neuroscience of Neurodegenerative Diseases (15 credits)
-Clinical Mental Health (30 credits - core for students who do not have either research or clinical experience in the field of dementia)

Optional modules - students who take five core modules will select 30 further credits of optional modules. Students who take six core modules will select 15 further credits of an optional module. Optional modules have either a neuroscience, research methods, or quality improvement in health care component and are the following:
-Practical Neuroscience of Dementia (15 credits, Institute of Neurology)
-Higher Functions of the Brain (15 credits, Institute of Neurology)
-Epidemiological and Social Methods in Mental Health (30 credits)
-Introduction to Biological Research in Mental Health (15 credits)
-Quality Improvement in Health Care (15 credits, UCL Medical School)
-Other optional modules may be selected from any available in the UCL Division of Psychiatry or elsewhere at UCL, with permission from the Programme Director

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a report of up to 8,000 words, presented as a paper ready to submit to a medical, psychiatric or dementia-specialist journal.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered though a combination of lecture/seminar series and practical interactive workshops, with supportive online learning material. Assessment methods include two unseen examinations, coursework including designing questionnaires and protocols and analysing data in dementia research, writing a critical literature review, giving talks and presentations, and a final report in the format of a journal paper.

Careers

This is a new programme and no information on graduate destinations is therefore available. Previous MSc-level graduates of the Division have had a strong track record of publishing papers based on their dementia research projects in peer reviewed journals, and have moved on to academic posts and PhD studies. For clinicians, the course will allow them to participate fully in collaborative studies and begin their research career as independent investigators in dementia research.

Employability
This unique and exciting programme will equip graduates with advanced knowledge of the prevention and treatment of dementia, and strong practical research skills in order to undertake doctoral research in the field. They will acquire in-depth understanding of the current status and direction of research for the treatment and care of people with dementia and their families, providing them with a strong foundation for doctoral studies, and applications for nationally funded fellowships. They will complete original research in their specific field of interest, learning about dementia research directly from experts working in clinical and research areas in dementia.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL has exceptional research strength in dementia, from laboratory to the community, including genetics, neuroscience of neurodegeneration, prevention and treatment. Students will be taught by leading international dementia researchers at the cutting-edge of their fields; more details are available at UCL Dementia Strategy. Optional modules give students access to other renowned departments at UCL e.g. the UCL Institute of Neurology, and the UCL Medical School.

The programme is strongly focused on active student participation, encouraging learning through participating in research and enquiry and developing the practical skills needed to embark on a research career in dementia. The wide range of research interests within our division and the UCL Institute of Neurology allows us to offer a programme that integrates biological and psychological approaches of dementia.

Students will be offered opportunities to get involved in the work of internationally significant research groups in dementia in a stimulating, friendly and supportive environment.

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A dynamic blend of clinical and research expertise is reflected in the delivery of this multidisciplinary programme where high standards of clinical care are fostered and students are encouraged to apply their critical and analytical thinking skills to theory, policy and practice in child and adolescent mental health.

Degree information

The programme will develop your ability to identify and analyse principles of policy, planning and management in child and adolescent mental health. You will gain professional, academic and research skills and understand how their application can improve clinical practice. You will increase your understanding of the impact of culture and diversity upon clinical theory and practice, and experience enhanced personal and professional development.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, one year part-time, flexible two to five years) is offered. The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), and three optional modules (45 credits). A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, one year part-time, two years flexible) is offered. Three core modules (45 credits) and a choice of one of the two remaining core modules (15 credits).

Core modules
-Introduction to Child and Adolescent Mental Health
-Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Child Mental Health
-Basic Research Methods in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
-Treatment in Child and Adolescent Mental Health – Pharmacological
-Interventions in Child and Adolescent Mental Health – Psychological

Optional modules
-International Child Mental Health
-Adolescent Mental Health and Transition to Adult Services
-Professionalism and Ethics in Child Mental Health
-Investigating Research
-Research Methods and Statistics

Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 to 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is taught through a combination of lectures, workshops, discussion, project work and independent and group study. Assessment includes written assignments, unseen written examinations, projects, oral presentations, group work, and the written dissertation.

Placement
We are able to offer a limited number of clinical placements in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in various NHS Trusts. Places are not guaranteed and are based on availability. The placements are a minimum of one day a week for a period of 8 weeks and will be supervised by medical and non-medical consultants within the service. Placements are observational only and will not be formally assessed but may offer opportunities to participate in research studies and other academic and teaching activities in the host Trust.

Careers

The programme provides career development training for doctors, psychologists and practitioners in social work and education who intend to focus and develop their careers in the areas of child mental health. This is a relatively new programme and specific career destinations data is not yet available. However, recent graduates have gone on to Clinical Doctorates in Psychology or had opportunities for progression in their current careers.

Employability
The programme attracts psychology graduates who wish to gain entry to a doctoral training programme in clinical psychology, and trainees in child psychiatry who wish to supplement their basic training with a higher degree; the MSc programme is closely aligned to the Royal College’s recommended curriculum. Students from social work, nursing and education will benefit from the acquisition of advanced skills in the theory and practice of working with young people with mental health difficulties. Clinical placements are available as an extra-curricular option for students who aim to develop their career in a profession related to clinical practice.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health pursues an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to enhance understanding, diagnosis, therapy and prevention of childhood diseases. Our research and our educational portfolio covers a broad range of paediatric issues, from molecular genetics to population health sciences.

Our close relationship with the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children means that much of our research and teaching is carried out on a joint basis. Students benefit from excellent facilities in both laboratory and non-laboratory subjects.

This programme blends academic theory and research with clinical knowledge to enable professionals to deliver a high standard of clinical care.

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The new Dementia MSc is offered jointly by the UCL Division of Psychiatry and Institute of Neurology and tackles one of the biggest global health problems facing society today. It provides research-oriented and cutting-edge training in the study of dementia and its scientific basis, led by international leaders in the science and practice of dementia. Two specialised pathways, in mental health and in neuroscience, are offered.

Degree information

The mental health pathway focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge of the prevention, detection and management of the dementias using epidemiological, psychosocial and clinical trial approaches, and is aimed at graduates wishing to explore or begin a research career in dementia. More information about the neuroscience pathway is also available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists five or six core modules (90 or 120 credits), one or two optional modules (if only five core modules are taken) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Core modules
-Current Research in Dementia (15 credits)
-Advanced Treatment and Management of Dementia (15 credits)
-Core Principles of Mental Health Research (30 credits)
-Statistical Methods in Mental Health (15 credits)
-Clinical Neuroscience of Neurodegenerative Diseases (15 credits)
-Clinical Mental Health (30 credits - core for students who do not have either research or clinical experience in the field of dementia)

Optional modules - students who take five core modules will select 30 further credits of optional modules. Students who take six core modules will select 15 further credits of an optional module. Optional modules have either a neuroscience, research methods, or quality improvement in health care component and are the following:
-Practical Neuroscience of Dementia (15 credits, Institute of Neurology)
-Higher Functions of the Brain (15 credits, Institute of Neurology)
-Epidemiological and Social Methods in Mental Health (30 credits)
-Introduction to Biological Research in Mental Health (15 credits)
-Quality Improvement in Health Care (15 credits, UCL Medical School)
-Other optional modules may be selected from any available in the UCL Division of Psychiatry or elsewhere at UCL, with permission from the Programme Director

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a report of up to 8,000 words, presented as a paper ready to submit to a medical, psychiatric or dementia-specialist journal.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered though a combination of lecture/seminar series and practical interactive workshops, with supportive online learning material. Assessment methods include two unseen examinations, coursework including designing questionnaires and protocols and analysing data in dementia research, writing a critical literature review, giving talks and presentations, and a final report in the format of a journal paper.

Careers

This is a new programme and no information on graduate destinations is therefore available. Previous MSc-level graduates of the Division have had a strong track record of publishing papers based on their dementia research projects in peer reviewed journals, and have moved on to academic posts and PhD studies. For clinicians, the course will allow them to participate fully in collaborative studies and begin their research career as independent investigators in dementia research.

Employability
This unique and exciting programme will equip graduates with advanced knowledge of the prevention and treatment of dementia, and strong practical research skills in order to undertake doctoral research in the field. They will acquire in-depth understanding of the current status and direction of research for the treatment and care of people with dementia and their families, providing them with a strong foundation for doctoral studies, and applications for nationally funded fellowships. They will complete original research in their specific field of interest, learning about dementia research directly from experts working in clinical and research areas in dementia.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL has exceptional research strength in dementia, from laboratory to the community, including genetics, neuroscience of neurodegeneration, prevention and treatment. Students will be taught by leading international dementia researchers at the cutting-edge of their fields; more details are available at UCL Dementia Strategy. Optional modules give students access to other renowned departments at UCL e.g. the UCL Institute of Neurology, and the UCL Medical School.

The programme is strongly focused on active student participation, encouraging learning through participating in research and enquiry and developing the practical skills needed to embark on a research career in dementia. The wide range of research interests within our division and the UCL Institute of Neurology allows us to offer a programme that integrates biological and psychological approaches of dementia.

Students will be offered opportunities to get involved in the work of internationally significant research groups in dementia in a stimulating, friendly and supportive environment.

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Summary

The programme provides an opportunity for students to enhance their skills and knowledge in areas of applied psychology related to mental health practice and research. It trains and equips students wishing to:

• Enter further professional training in Clinical, Counselling, Educational or Forensic Psychology;
• Become more employable for positions in the public and private sector (such as Assistant and Associate Psychologist posts, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner posts, and Research Assistant/Analyst posts);
• Pursue PhD research in the area of mental health.

In addition, the course has gained full AFT accreditation for Foundation Level training in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice, and full BPS accreditation for Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner training. These can be taken as routes within the MSc programme.

This course is undergoing academic revalidation during 2016/17, and course content/modules are subject to change. 

Structure and content

To complete the Masters programme, students are required to successfully complete 180 university credits. Programme Routes: There are three different ‘routes’ that students can take during their time on the programme, depending on their interest or the experience they would like to gain from their training. These routes have been designed because feedback from students suggests that some people like to maintain a broad range of skills and experience, whereas others prefer to focus on a particular area of practice. The route students choose may depend on the kind of work or further training that they want to pursue beyond the MSc course itself (note that all 3 routes include the carrying out of an MSc Research Project):

• The ‘Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner’ route – This route incorporates training as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP), which is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society. PWPs work in primary care mental health services, delivering low intensity psychological interventions (with a CBT focus) for people experiencing mild to moderate emotional problems such as depression and anxiety. This is a well-established role in mental health services in England, and services in Northern Ireland are developing to include a focus on this way of working. Students taking this route will spend time on clinical placement during the course, arranged by the course team (more on this below).
• The main course route, entitled ‘Mental Health and Psychological Therapies’ – This route offers a breadth of experience in theory and skills training, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Family Therapy & Systemic Practice skills modules, Advanced Research Methods, and a choice amongst key Mental Health and Professional Issues modules.
• The ‘Mental Health with Family Therapy and Systemic Practice’ route – this incorporates elements of the main course route (e.g. CBT, Mental Health modules, research methods), as well as Foundation Level training in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (fully accredited by the Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice). The training focuses on approaches implemented when supporting families, but also on how these approaches and concepts can be applied to working with individuals. Students on this route must have secured their own work in a therapeutic setting (to enable them to practice systemic therapy skills), including supervision by an accredited therapist.

Professional recognition

British Psychological Society (BPS)  

Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) against the requirements for qualification as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner.

Work placement / study abroad

The programme has a number of opportunities to connect clinical placement experiences with studies on campus. The BPS-accredited Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner Training (which composes part of one of the course routes), includes a 9-month clinical placement in low-intensity psychological therapies services, arranged by the course team. The AFT-accredited Foundation Level Training in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (which composes part of another course route), includes a module that explores and assesses students' clinical experiences in this area of practice - placement for this module is arranged by students themselves. Finally, the MSc presents a further placement opportunity for students who have completed the course, in the form of a 15-credit standalone placement module ('Clinical Placement in Applied Psychology'). A selection of clinical placements have been secured in Psychology Services in the Western Health and Social Care Trust, in specialisms including Adult Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Paediatric Psychology, Older Adults, Personality Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder Services. This post-MSc module is only open to those students who have completed the MSc at Ulster, and students who enrol on this module will be working as the equivalent of Assistant Psychologists on a voluntary basis in these services (length of placements are typically between 6 months and one year).

Career options

Currently, our graduating students are successful in acquiring Assistant Psychologist positions, which with experience is allowing people to apply for Associate Psychologist positions. Others are successful in gaining entry onto Professional Doctorate programmes in Clinical, Counselling and Educational Psychology, or PhD scholarships in Psychology across UK and Ireland. In addition, students who undertake the accredited Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) training strand within the course will be able to seek accreditation with the BPS for working as a PWP. Finally, students who undertake AFT Foundation Level Training will have completed Stage 1 of 3 in their training to become a qualified Systemic Psychotherapist.

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MSc Mental Health and Clinical Psychology is designed for those with interests or experience in the field of mental health and clinical psychology, and has a distinctive emphasis on the experiences of people who live with distress.

You'll develop expertise in the psychology of mental health and the related area of clinical psychology. The course focuses on psychosocial approaches to the study and 'treatment' of mental distress, in both clinical and community settings. You'll explore the social and cultural context from which mental distress occurs, and the responses of those who have experienced distress first hand and develop an understanding of psychological approaches to prevention, treatment and community means of social support and guidance.

Unique course delivery

Experts by experience (sometimes referred to as service users) are heavily involved in the delivery of the course and design of the overall course structure. Jacqui Dillon (chair of the Hearing Voices Network) is a consultant on the design and implementation of this unique programme.

Clinical placements

All students complete a clinically relevant placement. LSBU has excellent links with various mental health organisations. Previous students have had placements as honorary assistant psychologists at NHS organisations including South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust.

Previous placements outside the NHS have included a support worker at Cyrenians (a voluntary organisation supporting individuals with mental health difficulties, living in the community), and a recovery worker at Camden MIND. We can assist you in finding a suitable placement.

Modules

Introduction to clinical and community psychology
Research methods in psychology
Psychosocial interventions and treatments
Experts by experience
Introduction to clinical skills
Placement module
Dissertation

All modules are assessed by a mix of coursework, examinations, presentations and a placement log.

Teaching and learning

You'll benefit from small group teaching, as well as receive tutoring sessions to provide further advice and support for future employment. Learning will also be supported via e-learning sites.

Professional links

LSBU has strong links with a number of NHS trusts, as well as voluntary mental health organisations, including Changing Lives and the UK Hearing Voices Network.

Employability

We have placed employability at the heart of the psychology courses and the teaching and learning ensure you develop skills valuable to future employment. You'll benefit from an annual psychology specific careers day, clear signposting of skills development within modules, and career and skills development opportunities from the School and across the University.

You could go on to work in a number of areas including clinical psychology, psychotherapy, care coordination, social work, mental health nursing, and occupational therapy. The course could help with senior roles and responsibilities, management and supervision, or senior roles within charities or NGOs.

Please note that successful completion of the programme does not qualify you to practice as a clinical psychologist in the UK and will not allow you to register with the Health Professions Council as a 'practitioner psychologist', nor to use the protected title 'clinical psychologist'. If you wish to apply for UK Doctoral training you must still have a BPS accredited undergraduate degree in Psychology (a good upper second is often a minimum requirement). This Masters course does not substitute the BPS accreditation requirement.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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This is a professionally accredited new programme that offers you the opportunity to study psychology to graduate level and become eligible for graduate basis for chartered membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society.

The programme provides detailed coverage of all core aspects of psychology: developmental, social, cognitive, biological and neuropsychology, and individual differences. It also includes conceptual and theoretical perspectives in psychology and psychological research methods.

You will complete a research project on an area of mental health with either adults or children and young people.

This programme is unique in two respects. It is the only British Psychological Society accredited MSc conversion programme that focuses on the psychology of mental health. This focus is particularly suited to those who wish to pursue a career in a caring profession such as clinical psychology. It is also unique in being delivered jointly by a staff team offering unrivalled expertise in both psychological science and clinical psychology.

Programme structure

The programme can be taken full-time or part-time up to 6 years (invoiced at course level).

You will study a combination of compulsory and option courses and complete a research project.

Teaching approaches focus on delivery of psychological science and its application to mental health.

The programme's courses cover classic and contemporary psychology theories and are delivered through a range of engaging teaching approaches. While most classes are face-to-face, there are opportunities to participate in e-learning courses. You are also able to tailor your studies to your interests through a choice of options and research project topics.

Courses:

• Developmental Psychology & Developmental Psychopathology
• Individual Differences in Mental Health
• Social Psychology of Mental Health
• Discovering Development
• Psychological Research Methods: Data Management and Analysis
• Cognitive Neuropsychology
• Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Disorders
• Psychological Therapies
• One course from Psychology's range of optional courses

Career opportunities

Graduates will be eligible to register with the British Psychological Society through graduate basis for chartered membership (GBC). This will create career opportunities where a psychology degree is advantageous or essential. It also creates opportunities for advanced professional training in psychology (e.g. Clinical Psychology or Educational Psychology), which normally require an undergraduate degree in psychology.

You will also develop a range of sophisticated psychological research skills that will open career opportunities in research, including research assistant posts and doctoral research training.

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