Foundations of Clinical Psychology (MSc)

Start your psychologist career path and study the foundations of clinical psychology at the University of Southampton. Learn the key therapy skills required of a clinical psychologist such as counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and how these apply to different cultures.

The leadership, management, and advanced research skills you'll gain on this MSc will also create career opportunities in many different sectors.

This clinical psychology MSc combines core clinical psychology knowledge, relevant research and application of clinical psychology all over the world. You'll learn about the service provision of clinical psychology in the UK and internationally which gives you the unique chance to adapt your practice to suit the needs of the country you'll work in. We welcome students from all over the world.

This intensive clinical psychology master's will ensure you graduate with the transferable skills and confidence stepping into the real world to pursue a career in psychology. You’ll develop your professional practice to reach the high standards expected from the field. Our MSc is also recognised by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as counting towards continued professional development.

Through this course you'll:

• learn core therapeutic skills including counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• apply ethical and professional practice principles of clinical psychology
• learn advanced data analytical skills
• develop and apply leadership skills
• look at the global challenges and management of mental health

Our vibrant learning environment actively encourages knowledge-sharing between students and academics. You'll listen, learn and share at regular psychology seminars from the Centre for Innovation in Mental Health (CIMH). You'll also get the unique opportunity to learn from NHS clinicians whose teaching will bring the latest case studies from UK healthcare.

We actively support you in setting up a work placement during your time. Previous students have set up placements at NHS Trusts, schools and charities across Hampshire.

Course lead

Dr Emma Palmer-Cooper is a Lecturer in the School of Psychology, Charted Psychologist with the British Psychological Society, and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Dr. Palmer-Cooper has worked with people of different ages, backgrounds, and cultures. She is interested in mental health, particularly cognitive neuropsychology of the psychosis spectrum, as well as student wellbeing and the relationship between crafting and wellbeing.

She is also a member of the Centre for Innovation in Mental Health (CiMH) research group.

You'll need:

• a 2:1 degree in psychology
• a 2:1 in all statistics modules
• relevant experience in a mental health setting

Other degrees are considered in conjunction with an approved British Psychological Society conversion course.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification
• statistical techniques and software you’ve used
• research experience to date, including details of data collection, data analysis, and key knowledge/skills you have learned. This can relate to specific assignments (e.g. dissertations completed) or equivalent experience, for example, through work.

Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.

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