How to get on a clinical psychology graduate program

Clinical psychology is concerned with the assessment and treatment of behavioural problems and mental illness. This article will explain the entry requirements for a postgraduate course, where courses can be found and how to apply.

Entry requirements

Clinical psychology degree In order to register onto a postgraduate course, students need to have certain qualifications and experience. Prospective students need to have the graduate basis for chartered membership (GBC) of the British Psychological society (BPS). This is usually obtained through a clinical psychology degree. The reason for requesting this qualification is to ensure that students have the required level of skills and practical experience necessary to undertake post graduate training. Experience In terms of experience, prospective students are required to have had some experience of working in a clinical psychology role. This is to ensure that students are fully aware of what the profession is about; the kinds of tasks they will have to undertake, the patients they have to work with and the settings in which the work is carried out. Experience does not have to be obtained through full-time paid work. Voluntary or part-time work experience is also valuable. It is also relevant and beneficial to have had some kind of experience in research.

Where to study clinical psychology

There are many universities offering a MA in psychology but all applications have to go through the clearing house, and can only apply to four centres on the list. All courses provided have been approved by the Health Professions Council and are accredited through the British Psychological society. The courses run for approximately three years and combine a mixture of practical work and theoretical coursework.

How to apply

Applications for clinical psychology courses are made through the clearing house. An application management system is in place whereby students can register and complete their application. Once registered on this system, students are provided with a link sent to their email address to begin the application. The application process The application process consists of the main application form, submitted through the Clearing House website, a registration fee of £25.00 and two references. One of these references should be from an employer, the other should be academic. If a student already holds the GBC, then they are asked to provide either an academic transcript of their qualification, a letter from the BPS confirming that they are registered, or a letter confirming completion of the BPS examination. However, if an applicant does not hold the GBC, then they do not have to submit any supporting documents.