You will need a 3-year degree in Psychology that meets the standards of accreditation by the British Psychological Society. Qualification with a 2:1 or more provides eligibility to apply for GBC (Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the BPS). At Southampton it is also a requirement that you are able to evidence competence in statistics and research (currently 60% scores on undergraduate transcripts).
- What to do if you achieved a 2:2? You will need to complete a relevant higher degree, for example MSc.
- Applications are strengthened through evidence of research expertise, e.g. Completing an MSc or PhD, although this is not essential.
- You will need a 3-year Taught Doctorate in Clinical Psychology to gain eligibility to be registered by the HPC (Health Professions Council) enabling you to become (and use the protected title) Clinical Psychologist, and to be eligible to be registered as a Chartered Psychologist (C Psychol) with the BPS.
- The NHS funds these Doctorate programmes; successful applicants are employed by the NHS as a trainee clinical psychologist. Applicants must have relevant work experience and demonstrable research skills.
- The University of Southampton offers a well established 3-year Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, which is approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC), and accredited by the BPS (the length of the programme cannot be reduced through the accreditation of prior learning (AP(E)L). The Strategic Health Authority (SHA) funds the Doctorate and placements are primarily in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Application is made online through The Clearing House for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology.
- There are many different ways to fund your further study. The NHS funding offers for most courses. Invest time exploring your options further for Clinical Psychology funding and to find out about our postgraduate funding options.
GBC and HPC
Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), of the British Psychology Society (BPS) - The Basic requirement for postgraduate study in Psychology
Chartered Psychologist (C Psychol) - Registration with the BPS is a requirement to become a Chartered Psychologist
Health Professions Council (HPC) - Registration is a requirement to become and use the protected title, 'Clinical Psychologist'