MSc Applied Clinical Psychology

Program Overview

The MSc Applied Clinical Psychology program at Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), United Kingdom, offers a comprehensive and evidence-based postgraduate degree designed to provide a deep understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology. Taught in collaboration with the renowned Salomons Institute of Psychology, which is an integral part of CCCU, the program focuses on enabling students to apply scientific theory and psychological principles to address psychological distress and dysfunction, while actively promoting well-being. With a strong emphasis on research, students gain a sound understanding of clinical psychology assessment, formulation, intervention, and evaluation across a range of theoretical models and client groups. The course also fosters a reflective and critical understanding of developmental, social, cultural, and organizational contexts, emphasizing a person-centered approach and the vital nature of service-user perspectives. This program serves as a significant stepping stone for graduates aspiring to undertake doctoral training in clinical psychology or other mental health-related disciplines.  

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Applied Clinical Psychology program is structured to provide a detailed and progressive learning experience. It typically comprises six core modules, each worth 20 credits, culminating in a substantial 60-credit research project, making a total of 180 credits. Core modules include "Models of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Problems," "Psychological Problems Through the Lifespan," "Assessment, Treatment and Clinical Skills," and "Professional, Ethical and Service-Related Issues." Learning and teaching techniques are varied and may include lectures, seminars, group work, practical-based workshops, role-plays, and research projects, complemented by extensive self-directed study. Assessment is ongoing and diverse, incorporating written assignments, practical assignments and reports, presentations, and the final research project, designed to assess the development of a wide range of skills.  

Research Focus: Canterbury Christ Church University, particularly through its Salomons Institute of Psychology and the wider School of Psychology and Life Sciences, maintains a strong emphasis on research that informs its teaching. Faculty members are active researchers in various areas within psychology, including clinical health psychology, neuropsychology, public mental health, and arts and health. Specific research areas of expertise that students may benefit from or engage with through their studies include topics such as understanding depression, understanding psychosis and schizophrenia, the psychology of sport and disabilities, and a range of areas within adult mental health, child and adolescent development, and mental health. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, enabling students to critically evaluate existing literature and contribute to the evidence base through their own substantial research projects, which form a significant part of the degree.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Applied Clinical Psychology program is designed to bridge academic theory with practical application, preparing students for real-world roles within mental health disciplines. While this specific MSc program does not typically include mandatory clinical placements, the teaching is delivered by qualified clinical psychologists, active researchers, and mental health experts who bring extensive professional experience into the classroom. The collaboration with the Salomons Institute of Psychology, which also runs doctoral programs in clinical psychology with strong NHS partnerships and placements, ensures that the curriculum remains highly relevant to clinical practice. The program provides a detailed understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology, equipping students with the foundational knowledge necessary for competitive entry into subsequent doctoral-level clinical training, where direct clinical experience is central.

Global Perspective: Canterbury Christ Church University welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the MSc Applied Clinical Psychology program. The study of clinical psychology inherently involves a global perspective, as psychological distress and dysfunction are universal human experiences influenced by diverse cultural, social, and organizational contexts. The curriculum encourages a reflective and critical understanding of these varied contexts and their impact on individuals and the delivery of psychological services. While the primary focus is often on the UK healthcare context, the program's emphasis on foundational principles and research methodologies means that the knowledge and skills acquired are broadly applicable and globally significant. The University's wider support for international students further contributes to a global learning environment, preparing graduates to understand and potentially engage with mental health challenges and solutions from an international viewpoint.