MSc Clinical Psychology and Mental Health

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

The MSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health at University of Surrey provides a strong foundation in clinical skills, research methods and global perspectives on mental health care. It is suited for graduates and professionals who aim to work in mental health professions, research or clinical practice.

Curriculum structure:
In the first part of the programme, you study modules such as Introduction to Clinical Practice in Mental Health and Research Methods and Design, which introduce you to the nature of psychological distress, therapeutic relationships and empirical methods. Further modules—such as Diversity, Neurodiversity & Inclusive Practice and Psychological Interventions Across the Lifespan—develop your ability to work with different populations, evaluate evidence-based therapies and reflect on ethical and cultural issues. You culminate your year with the Dissertation/Applied Research Project, an independent piece of work that combines the theory, practice and research skills you’ve developed.

Focus areas: "clinical skills, mental health research methods, inclusive practice, interventions across the lifespan"
Learning outcomes: "Students will gain advanced knowledge of clinical psychology theory, develop competence in qualitative and quantitative research techniques, and emerge as reflective practitioners equipped for mental health roles."
Professional alignment (accreditation): While not a chartered psychologist qualification, this MSc equips students with the theory, research and practice foundations sought by mental health, social care and public health employers. 
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Surrey’s Psychology department is ranked 1st in the UK for postgraduate student satisfaction (PTES 2025) and reports 97% of its psychology MSc graduates in employment or further study within 15 months

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical skills through applied research and  psychology training. They utilise specialist facilities and have access to the School of Psychology's research laboratories. The programme's experiential components include:

  • Research Project: A substantive empirical dissertation in health psychology

  • Professional Training: Stage 1 training towards becoming a Chartered Health Psychologist

  • Software: Training in SPSS for statistical analysis of health data

  • Laboratory Access: Use of the School of Psychology's specialist research facilities

  • Applied Research: Development of health intervention and behaviour change skills

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Clinical Psychology and Mental Health at the University of Surrey gain a robust foundation in clinical skills and psychological health principles, making them well-prepared for diverse roles in mental health services, research, and applied psychology. Typical job roles include Clinical Psychologist Trainee, Mental Health Practitioner, Researcher, and Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner.

  • Surrey’s Careers and Employability Service offers personalised coaching, internship and placement support in NHS and community mental health settings, and professional development workshops.

  • 97% of Surrey psychology masters graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, with competitive salary ranges depending on role and sector.

  • The program collaborates closely with NHS trusts, public health agencies, and mental health research institutions for placement and research opportunities.

  • The degree carries long-term accreditation value and equips students with essential clinical skills and reflective practice frameworks.

  • Graduates achieve strong outcomes in applied clinical roles, research positions, and mental health policy development.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates commonly progress to Doctorate in Clinical Psychology programs, specialised professional training, or PhD research in clinical and mental health psychology

Program Key Stats

£25,900 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


70 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3.2
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.5
95
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Research Assistant (NHS/clinical research)
  • PhD Researcher (Clinical Psychology)
  • Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) Trainee
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Recovery Worker
  • Clinical Studies Officer
  • High-Intensity Therapist (IAPT) Trainee
  • Care Coordinator
  • Mental Health Charity Officer

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