UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG · SOUTH AFRICA
MA Clinical Psychology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The MA Clinical Psychology programme at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a full-time, two-year postgraduate degree designed to prepare you for registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of clinical psychology, with the first year focusing on structured coursework and practicals, often involving workshops and contact sessions on the Kingsway Campus. The second year is dedicated to an accredited internship at a clinical mental healthcare facility in South Africa. This programme is demanding and does not permit any other form of full-time or part-time employment during your studies. Successful completion of this MA degree, followed by a one-year Community Service placement (external to the MA) and passing the HPCSA Board Exam, is necessary for ultimate registration as an Independent Practitioner.
Curriculum
The programme spans two years and is divided into three key components: a structured teaching component (M1), a research project culminating in a minor dissertation, and an accredited internship (M2). M1 involves attending classes, workshops, and practical sessions. M2 requires completion of an internship at an accredited clinical site, which remains linked to the university.
- Year 1 (M1)
- Structured teaching component
- Research project (minor dissertation)
- Year 2 (M2)
- Accredited internship
Careers
Upon successful completion of the MA Clinical Psychology programme, an accredited internship, passing the HPCSA Board Exam, and fulfilling the one-year Community Service requirement, graduates will be eligible for registration as Clinical Psychologists with the HPCSA, allowing them to practice as independent practitioners.
- Clinical Psychologist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
- You need a relevant undergraduate degree. International applicants must have their qualifications evaluated by SAQA. Admission is competitive and includes a selection process.
- What is the duration of the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
- The MA Clinical Psychology programme is a full-time, two-year degree. The first year focuses on coursework and research, while the second year is dedicated to an accredited internship.
- How do I apply for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
- You must complete both a UJ online application and a departmental application directly with the UJ Department of Psychology. This includes submitting academic records, referee reports, and paying an administration fee.
- What are the application deadlines for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
- Applications open on 1 April 2026 and the deadline is 13 June 2026 at 12:00 PM.
- What are the tuition fees for this programme?
- Tuition fees for both domestic and international students are not specified on the program page and you should refer to the university's general fee structure for postgraduate programs.
- What career opportunities are available after completing this MA?
- Upon successful completion, internship, HPCSA Board Exam, and community service, graduates are eligible for registration as Clinical Psychologists with the HPCSA to practice independently.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA relevant undergraduate degree is required. Applicants still enrolled in an Honours course must provide provisional results for the first semester and proof of current registration.
International students must have their qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) before applying. Admission is highly competitive and subject to a selection process, which includes a review of application documents and an assessment during selection week. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission due to limited seats and high application numbers. You can only apply for either Clinical or Counselling Psychology, not both.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for international students on the program page. Please refer to the university's general fee structure for postgraduate programs.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified for domestic students on the program page. Please refer to the university's general fee structure for postgraduate programs.
LivingEstimated living costs for Johannesburg are not provided.
An administration fee of R300 (non-refundable) is required for the departmental application. Banking details for this fee are provided on the application page.
How to apply
1. Step 1: University ApplicationComplete the online UJ application. New applicants can use the postgraduate admissions link, while current UJ students with a student number should use the registration portal.
2. Step 2: Departmental ApplicationDownload the Application Guide, Application Form, and Referee Report from the Department of Psychology website. Complete these documents as instructed.
3. Step 3: Submit Departmental Application DocumentsAttach the following to your Departmental Application: a certified copy of your academic record/progress report, and proof of payment for the administration fee. Documents should be in .Word format only (no PDFs) and clearly labeled with your UJ student number, surname, and initials, followed by the document name (e.g., 2024111111 Surname Initials – Academic record).
4. Step 4: Referee ReportsArrange for two professional referees (not relatives or friends) to complete the Referee Report form. Referees must send their reports directly to clinicalpsych@uj.ac.za before the application closing date. Ensure they use the correct reference number if applicable.
5. Step 5: Pay Administration FeePay the compulsory, non-refundable administration fee of R300 via EFT or Direct Bank Deposit to the specified UJ Psychology bank account. Use the exact reference code '005160.Clin'. Incorrect payment details may lead to your application not being processed.
6. Step 6: SAQA Evaluation (International Applicants)International students must have their qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) prior to applying to UJ.
7. Step 7: Selection ProcessEligible applicants will be invited to participate in a selection week where suitability and potential are assessed. This is a highly competitive process.
Accreditation
The programme leads to registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
+
You need a relevant undergraduate degree. International applicants must have their qualifications evaluated by SAQA. Admission is competitive and includes a selection process.
What is the duration of the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
+
The MA Clinical Psychology programme is a full-time, two-year degree. The first year focuses on coursework and research, while the second year is dedicated to an accredited internship.
How do I apply for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
+
You must complete both a UJ online application and a departmental application directly with the UJ Department of Psychology. This includes submitting academic records, referee reports, and paying an administration fee.
What are the application deadlines for the MA Clinical Psychology programme?
+
Applications open on 1 April 2026 and the deadline is 13 June 2026 at 12:00 PM.
What are the tuition fees for this programme?
+
Tuition fees for both domestic and international students are not specified on the program page and you should refer to the university's general fee structure for postgraduate programs.
What career opportunities are available after completing this MA?
+
Upon successful completion, internship, HPCSA Board Exam, and community service, graduates are eligible for registration as Clinical Psychologists with the HPCSA to practice independently.