Part time Postgraduate Clinical Psychology in Scotland

Clinical psychology is a practice-oriented branch of psychology which is a key part of public and private health services in the UK. It deals with the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Studying a doctorate in the subject represents the highest level of education within the field.

A doctorate in clinical psychology is a research-based degree, and in addition to a strong undergraduate and often master’s level qualification in a psychology related field, you’ll need to demonstrate a significant amount of clinical work experience and will also need to prepare a research proposal for the university’s consideration. This will inform the basis of your doctorate work.

There are 29 UK universities offering doctorate courses in clinical psychology, and 11 of these offer part-time attendance. Holding a PhD in clinical psychology opens doors to the highest levels of professional work.

What to expect

A part-time doctorate in clinical psychology can last up to eight years; however, the majority take between four to six years to complete. You’ll continue your clinical psychology practice alongside your doctoral studies, and this gives you an opportunity to integrate your research outcomes with your current professional work.

As a research student, you’ll be undertaking a detailed enquiry into a topic of your choosing, under the supervision of an academic mentor. Your work will be at the level where it can make a meaningful contribution to the field of clinical psychology, and you may also be a teaching component to your course structure.

It is recognised that most graduates will go on to work in the NHS, and your programme will be validated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and your course should carry the accreditation credentials of the British Psychological Society (BPS).