MSc in Clinical Applications of Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Hull

Program Overview

The MSc in Clinical Applications of Psychology at the University of Hull provides advanced insight into clinical and applied psychological theory and practice. It suits students aiming for clinical, counselling, or research careers, combining academic learning with applied professional skills.

Curriculum structure:
In Semester 1, students build foundational knowledge through modules such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Principles and Skills, Research Methods in Clinical Psychology, and Professional Practice in Mental Health. These introduce evidence-based interventions, research design, and ethical considerations in clinical settings.

In Semester 2, learning focuses on applying theory to practice through Applied Clinical Psychology and Advanced Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis. Students critically evaluate treatment models and learn to conduct empirical studies in mental health contexts.

The final stage centres on an independent Empirical Research Project, where students investigate a topic relevant to clinical psychology, demonstrating research competence and professional awareness.

Focus areas: “clinical psychology; cognitive behavioural therapy; research methods; professional practice; applied clinical psychology; empirical research”
Learning outcomes: “develop understanding of clinical assessment and intervention; apply psychological theory to real-world mental health contexts; design and evaluate psychological research; demonstrate ethical and professional standards in practice”
Professional alignment (accreditation): Designed in line with British Psychological Society (BPS) standards, preparing students for further training in clinical or counselling psychology.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Hull is recognised for strong graduate employability and research excellence, ranked highly in the Guardian University Guide and QS World University Rankings for psychology.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major research project. They have access to the Department of Behavioural and Social Sciences' specialist facilities including EEG and eye-tracking equipment. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Project: A substantial independent empirical project
Laboratory Access: Use of EEG, eye-tracking and other research equipment
Software: Training in SPSS and other statistical packages
Technical Skills: Development of research design and data analysis capabilities
Practical Training: Hands-on experience with psychological research methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Clinical Applications of Psychology at the University of Hull prepares graduates with advanced knowledge of adult mental health, research skills, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions. Graduates typically move into roles such as assistant psychologists, clinical psychologists in training, counseling psychologists in training, or mental health practitioners, reflecting strong clinical and academic career prospects.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

The university provides career support, including placements with local health and social care services, clinical supervision, research project mentoring, and networking with NHS and social care professionals.
Employment rates for graduates are strong; while the program itself does not confer licensure, it provides essential preparation for clinical psychology training. Salaries for assistant psychologists and similar roles start around £22,000–£28,000, with opportunities to progress to higher clinical roles.
Strong partnerships exist with the Hull Clinical Psychology Training Programme, NHS trusts, charities, and community organisations, enhancing student employability and practical training.
The MSc plays a valuable role in preparing for professional clinical psychology accreditation routes.
Typical roles: Assistant Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist in Training, Counselling Psychologist in Training, Mental Health Practitioner.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can progress to doctoral clinical psychology programs (DClinPsy), research PhDs, or pursue specialist psychoanalytic postgraduate training such as the MA Psychoanalytic Studies.