ClinPsyD Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Duration
3 Years
Entry requirements

A degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) in single honours Psychology, or joint honours where psychology constitutes at least fifty per cent of the course, is required.

The degree must have already been awarded at the time of application; candidates who are currently undergraduates will not be short-listed for interview.

For candidates with degrees that do not constitute at least 50% psychology, a BPS accredited Psychology conversion course must be obtained (original award grade will remain the same therefore the minimum of a 2.1 award remains applicable).

Candidates must establish their eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society before making an application.

A minimum of 12 months of paid FTE clinically relevant experience such as work in a healthcare setting or a background in clinical research involving direct contact with patients delivering assessments and/or treatments and/or service development work  at the time of submitting an application  is considered essential.

Formal consent to participate as service users in practical and clinical teaching will be required as a condition of entry to the programme.

Full entry requirements

Full entry requirements

How to apply
Application for the ClinPsyD programme is made through the British Psychological Society's Clearing House for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology.

Overseas applicants who do not meet the criteria for home fee status should also apply through the clearing house system.

Programme options

Full-time Part-time Full-time distance learning Part-time distance learning
ClinPsyD Y N N N

Programme overview

  • Learn from some of Europe's leading researchers while undertaking your own project.
  • Access some of the best research facilities in the world at both the University and in hospitals around Greater Manchester.
  • Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme.
  • Conduct research at a university ranked 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2023).

Open days

Attending an open day is a great way to find out what undertaking postgraduate research at Manchester is like. Find out about our upcoming open days .

Fees

To be announced.

Currently, trainees are fully funded by NHS England and are full-time employees of Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. They have annual leave and other benefits in line with usual NHS entitlements and are subject to the normal policies and procedures of the employing Trust. On entry to the programme all trainees commence on the first spine point of Band 6 of the Agenda for Change pay scales.

Additional expenses

Trainees are provided with mobile phones to record clinical sessions to aid their development as clinicians on placement. Encrypted recorders are also available to loan to undertake research.  Trainees are required to pay for replacements should they be broken or lost.

Contact details

School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health
Contact name
FBMH Clinical Psychology Doctorate
Telephone
+44 (0)161 529 4180 OPT. 5
Email
School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview

A degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) in single honours Psychology, or joint honours where psychology constitutes at least fifty per cent of the course, is required.

The degree must have already been awarded at the time of application; candidates who are currently undergraduates will not be short-listed for interview.

For candidates with degrees that do not constitute at least 50% psychology, a BPS accredited Psychology conversion course must be obtained (original award grade will remain the same therefore the minimum of a 2.1 award remains applicable).

Candidates must establish their eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society before making an application.

A minimum of 12 months of paid FTE clinically relevant experience such as work in a healthcare setting or a background in clinical research involving direct contact with patients delivering assessments and/or treatments and/or service development work  at the time of submitting an application  is considered essential.

Formal consent to participate as service users in practical and clinical teaching will be required as a condition of entry to the programme.

Full entry requirements

English language

For applicants whose first language is not English a minimum of IELTS 8 (with no less than 7 in the writing element) is required, although this may be waived if the student has completed an undergraduate degree in a  majority English speaking country as defined by the UK Home Office  . You must supply an official IELTS transcript to support your application or provide a date on which you will be taking a test. Applicants may be contacted by the Programme to request evidence of English language competency if this is not supplied as part of the Clearing House form.

For more information about English language tests see  English language requirements .

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Other international entry requirements

We accept a range of qualifications from different countries, provided all applicants are eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS). Potential applicants should contact the BPS for further information on equivalency and how to register.

Relevant work experience

A minimum of twelve months of clinically relevant paid experience (accumulated at the time of submitting an application ) is considered essential. We define 'clinically relevant' as any work in a healthcare, research or other setting that involves direct contact with service users in a context where psychological knowledge and principles are being applied. Points are scored at shortlisting for work supervised by a qualified psychological practitioner that involves assessment, formulation, intervention and/or service development. Experience of working in a variety of clinical settings and supervised clinical work involving psychological research also score additional points. 

We find it particularly helpful when applicants organise their application form so it is clear how much experience they have had of assessment, formulation, intervention, service development and research. We also find forms much easier to assess where there is clear spacing between paragraphs and separate sub-headings for different types of experience.

Many of our successful applicants have been assistant clinical psychologists, clinical research assistants, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, High Intensity Therapists or other mental health workers, although this is not essential if you can demonstrate that your experience meets our criterion of clinically relevant. Experience as a support worker alone is not considered sufficient unless formal application of psychological knowledge and principles were central to the role (if so, this should be made explicit in the 'Main duties' section of the 'Description of Post' part of the application form).

Professional entry qualification

All applicants must be eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society.

Other entry requirements

A minimum of 12 months' clinically-relevant experience, such as work in a healthcare setting or clinical research, is also essential.

Application and selection

How to apply

Application for the ClinPsyD programme is made through the British Psychological Society's Clearing House for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology.

Overseas applicants who do not meet the criteria for home fee status should also apply through the clearing house system.

Advice to applicants

All applications should be made via the   Clearing House for Postgraduate Studies in Clinical Psychology   and not directly to the University.

All applications must be sent to the Clearing House by the beginning of December the year prior to intended entry; applicants should contact the Clearing House for precise deadline dates for their year of entry.

Applicants should also be aware that, due to the nature of our selection procedure, we are unable to accept applications that do not have references submitted in the Clearing House format. Any applications received with references not in this format cannot be processed.

How your application is considered

Positive action in selection

We are committed to promoting diversity in Clinical Psychology, so will apply principles of positive action in line with stated ethnicity and/or disability in cases where there are multiple candidates of equal merit, in accordance with the Equality Act (2010). If you wish to be considered for this then you need to provide consent for us to have full access to the information provided by you during the selection process in the Clearing House Equal Opportunities Monitoring form. Please note that we will only access equal opportunities data during the selection process in cases where there are multiple candidates of equal merit, and only for the purpose of establishing whether positive action can be applied.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Programme are committed to principles of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). This is demonstrated across various aspects of the Programme, including selection and recruitment (where positive action is in place), mandatory training (where key legislation is covered), teaching on power, position, privilege and intersectionality, and a mentoring programme for aspiring clinical psychologists from underrepresented backgrounds. The continuing development of EDI on the Programme is led by the Programme EDI Lead and overseen by the Programme EDI Committee.

We recognise there is more work to be done. The Programme is implementing an ambitious EDI action plan to improve access to training and the training experience for people from Black, Asian and other minoritised ethnic groups. This drive is supported by additional funding from HEE, as part of wider plans to improve the experience of mental health care for people from minoritised ethnic communities, and NHS commitment to EDI. This work is also taking place within the context of the University of Manchester's Race Matters at Manchester action plan.

Interview requirements

Interviews will be held in the spring of each year and take the form of one interview, approximately 30 minutes in length.

The programme constantly strives to improve the interview process and additions to this format are possible. The interview panel consists of programme staff, local NHS clinicians and community members.

Applicants should obtain the interview schedule from Clearing House and ensure they are available during the allotted week. Alternative interview dates are not available.

Overseas (non-UK) applicants

Due to our funding arrangements, we are only able to consider international applicants with Indefinite Leave to Remain (or 'settled' status under immigration rules) with 3 years' residency in the UK for funded places.

Following the UK's formal departure from the European Union, EU nationals are no longer eligible for home fees status and should apply as international applicants unless they have been granted 'settled' or 'pre-settled' status under the EU Settlement Scheme with 3 years residency in the UK/EU for a purpose other than full time education, in which case applicants are eligible to apply for a funded place.

We now have places for a limited number of students from international countries with overseas fees status, who are seeking the ClinPsyD qualification. These individuals will be required to meet the same entry standards as other successful applicants. As these places are self-funded we encourage candidates to investigate whether bursaries or other funding is available from their home government or other local agencies before applying. You will also need the means to financially support yourself through the three year training programme as the time commitment required for training will not allow for employment. The fees for international students for 2023 entry are currently set at £34,500 per year. Please contact us for details of 2024 fees.

Overseas applicants who do not meet the criteria for home fee status must still apply through the Clearing House system.

Aptitude test requirement

Applicants who meet the all entry requirements will be invited to sit a GMA (General Mental Ability) test, which must be completed in order for them to be considered. 

The results from this will be used to deselect a proportion of applicants and the remaining candidates will then be shortlisted using the programme's usual process.

Fitness to practise / health requirements

All offers are made subject to Occupational Health clearance via the NHS. Further information can be provided prior to interview if required.

All students are required to demonstrate appropriate professional conduct. Fitness to practice procedures will be invoked in the case of breaches of professional guidelines and codes of conduct.

See the HEOPS standards of medical fitness to train guidance (PDF, 73KB) for more information.

Disclosure and Barring Service check

All offers are made subject to receiving clearance on an enhanced DBS check. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act does not apply and all convictions and cautions must be declared, even those which would normally be considered spent.

Deferrals

Deferrals are not normally permitted.

Transfers

Transfers are not normally permitted.

Programme details

Programme description

The Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is a three-year programme of academic and clinical training. It is the result of close collaboration between the University and clinical psychologists in North-West England.

The programme aims to train practitioners who are able to fulfil the responsibilities and duties of clinical psychologists in a range of settings. In addition to a comprehensive in-depth training in cognitive-behavioural approaches, teaching is provided in psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, systemic approaches, clinical neuropsychology work, team working and leadership, research methods and other therapeutic and clinical approaches. A critical evaluation of all models is emphasised throughout the training. There is strong emphasis on research throughout the programme and students work alongside research programmes within the Division of Psychology and Mental Health.

It is recognised that the majority of graduates will be employed within the National Health Service. The programme is thus geared to train clinical psychologists who will be able to meet the appropriate client needs and organisational requirements of the NHS and other statutory and voluntary bodies who work in collaboration with the health service.

The training covers a wide geographical area, with placements at present available in many NHS Trusts throughout the north-west. The structure of the training spans both taught and research elements, with specialist teaching units co-ordinated around intensive clinical placements.

Further details can be found in the  Trainee Clinical Psychologist job description  (Word, 110KB) and on the  ClinPsyD Handbook website.

Aims

Theoretical standpoint

Central to the role of the clinical psychologist is the capacity to understand varied and complex psychological theories and to apply these to formulate cases and plan intervention strategies. 

The programme is essentially cognitive-behavioural in orientation and aims to provide trainees with comprehensive, in-depth training in this approach. Training and opportunities for clinical experience are also provided in other methods, particularly family systems and psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, functional analysis and other therapeutic approaches. A critical evaluation of all models is emphasised throughout the training.

There is a specific focus upon procedures derived from experimental and clinical research, and the model of the scientist-practitioner is encouraged. The approach to case work emphasises full assessment and formulation, followed by the generation and experimental testing of clinical hypotheses.

The programme aims to provide trainees with the skills that will enable them to be reflective practitioners within the changing needs of the NHS.

Special features

Training and development

All of our postgraduate researchers attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Researcher Development team . The programme provides key transferable skills and equips our postgraduate researchers with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy. The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Teaching and learning

Placements

The training covers a wide geographical area, with placements available in many NHS Trusts throughout the north-west at present. Trainees spend 50% of the programme gaining supervised clinical experience on placements across the north-west of England. Several local NHS Trusts support the programme by providing these placements, most of which are in Greater Manchester, but also include Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside and Cheshire.

Applicants need to be aware that in applying for the programme they have accepted that they will have to travel required distances from their homes to the locations specified above. Travel within placements will also be expected.It is necessary that all applicants possess a valid driving licence and have regular access to their own transport to enable them to fulfil the requirements of placements (subject to reasonable adjustments for disability).If offered an interview, you will be required to bring your photocard licence on the day of the interview, which will also be used as photographic proof of identity. Applicants without a photocard licence must bring their paper driving licence and current passport.

Academic

The Academic Programme takes an adult learning approach. We are aware that many trainees bring substantial experience with them into training and we have designed the curriculum to build on and develop prior knowledge. Teaching is based on the blended learning approach, whereby in-person workshops focused on skills development are combined with complementary online teaching materials. In this way trainees experience both the interactivity of live teaching and the control and convenience associated with online study.Teaching is delivered mainly by registered clinicians. In addition to teaching from clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses and other professionals make significant contributions to the Programme. We have strong links with service users who both deliver teaching and, through our Community Liaison Group, input into the development of the curriculum.

The ClinPsyD programme begins with a six-week induction. During this time, trainees are introduced to the overarching scientist-practitioner model of clinical psychology, before learning about basic interviewing skills, assessment, formulation and intervention. At this early stage, the focus is on the development of cognitive-behavioural skills, so that trainees are prepared to start placement on the Programme CBT Clinic by the end of the block.

Academic work, including formal instruction, study time and research time, takes place for two days per week during university term time throughout Years 1 and 2 and in term 1 of Year 3. In Years 1 and 2, trainees attend for in-person teaching on campus on one of these days, while the other is reserved for private study. Trainees are expected to use private study days to study online teaching materials connected to the in-person teaching sessions, and their other academic work.

The teaching includes core clinical areas (encompassing common presentations and core clinical skills/issues in adult, child, older adult and learning disability services); therapeutic approaches (e.g. cognitive therapy, psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, systemic and family therapy, clinical neuropsychology); specialist areas (e.g. clinical psychology in health settings, forensic); research methods; and statistics. Teaching is organised around placements for the first two years, and is primarily skills based, with teaching in the third year being largely workshop based. Trainees have a Clinical Tutor and Academic Advisor to facilitate and review all aspects of progress throughout the three years. The incorporation of problem-based learning tasks enhances group dynamics and encourages discussion of complex issues within the year groups.

Coursework and assessment

The Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is awarded on the basis of the formal evaluation of practical work, academic work and a research project. Trainees must pass all three aspects of the evaluation procedure in order to be awarded the degree.

Practical work

Trainees are rated by clinical supervisors for clinical knowledge and competence at the end of each placement. Failure to achieve satisfactory ratings may lead to discontinuation of training. Trainees present, and must pass, a total of five pieces of work, including four case reports (one being a live observation) and an audit of clinical activity carried out during the first or second year and a service related project carried out in the third year.

Academic work

There are examinations at the end of the teaching blocks in July of Year 1 and Year 2. Confirmation of registration is dependent upon passing these examinations. Assessed work may also be the subject of viva voce examination if this is deemed necessary by the Exam Board. The University regulations permit a candidate to re-sit failed examinations in August/September of the same year. Trainees must pass all examinations and pieces of work in order to complete the programme. Three pieces of work may be failed on first attempt. Training is discontinued if a trainee fails any piece of work on resubmission or fails four pieces of work on first attempt. Please see the Programme Handbook for further information.

Research thesis

The research thesis is usually submitted at the end of April of the third year and is examined orally in July. There are three main categories of outcome, i.e. pass (with or without minor corrections), resubmit, and fail. Resubmission requires a considerable revision of the work and may delay the award of the degree.

Programme content for year 1

Clinical experience (Years 1 and 2)

Clinical training is supervised by experienced clinical psychologists and other psychological practitioners. A wide range of supervisors is available and there is a wealth of clinical expertise within the geographical area.

The first year consists of two blocks of six-month clinical placements in the areas of adult and child.  Some trainees will also work one day per week in the CBT clinic based in the department.

The second year will consist of one 11-month placement in either a learning disability, older adults, physical health or neuropsychology service.

Trainees are visited at the mid-point and end of each placement by their clinical tutor, who facilitates and reviews their clinical development. Trainees are expected to attend a minimum number of days on Clinical Placement in order to graduate.

Programme content for year 3

The third year provides trainees with the opportunity to work in a range of clinical settings in order to develop more specialist skills and get experience of leadership and service development.

Current third year placements cover many different areas, including:

  • health psychology
  • substance misuse
  • forensic psychology
  • neuropsychology
  • cognitive therapy
  • family therapy
  • psychotherapy.

Trainees are encouraged to undertake a single nine-month placement (four days per week) in Year 3 to gain a more realistic experience of post-qualification working, although two concurrent placements may also be considered.

The choice of third-year placement may be more limited in cases where core clinical competencies have not been demonstrated in Years 1 and 2.

As part of placement activity in Year 3, trainees are required to complete a Service Related Project.

Programme unit details

The ClinPsyD programme begins with a six-week induction, during which basic interviewing skills, assessment, formulation and treatment techniques are introduced.

Academic work, including formal instruction, study time and research time, takes place for two days per week during university term time throughout Years 1 and 2. The first semester of Year 3 is dedicated to teaching and research work.

The programme does not give credit for applicants or students prior (experiential) learning. Teaching is organised into a modular system and is provided by programme staff and clinicians from around the north-west.

Teaching is provided on:

  • Common presentations and core clinical skills/issues pertaining to the four core clinical areas in Years 1 and 2 (adult, child, older adult, learning disability);
  • Personal and professional development (including team working and leadership);
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy;
  • Psychodynamic interpersonal therapy;
  • Specialist areas (eg clinical neuropsychology, application of clinical psychology in health and forensic settings);
  • Power, privilege, position and intersectionality(with input from carers and service users from our Community Liaison Group);
  • Research methods;
  • Statistics.

Teaching is organised around placements for the first two years, and follows a blended learning mode of delivery.

As a condition of entry to the programme applicants are required to provide formal written consent to participate as service users in practical and clinical teaching.

Trainees are assigned a clinical tutor and academic advisor to facilitate and review all aspects of their progress throughout the three years. 

What our students say

Find out more about what it's like to undertake a postgraduate research degree at Manchester on the Doctoral Academy Blog and the support available through our Faculty Doctoral Academy.

Facilities

The programme is based on the main University campus, in the Zochonis building. Trainees have access to a computer lab with black and white laser printing, a locker room and kitchen facilities. 

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

Careers

Career opportunities

Your postgraduate research degree will open up a range of career opportunities after you graduate. Find out more on the Careers page.

Accrediting organisations

The ClinPsyD Programme is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council, accredited by the British Psychological Society.