UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE · UNITED KINGDOM
Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3 yearsDuration
- Eligible for HCPC registrationProfessional Registration
- Accreditation by BPSProfessional Accreditation
This Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology program at the University of Hertfordshire focuses on training psychologists with a strong commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and equity. It adopts a social constructionist perspective, emphasizing that individuals are experts in their own lives and that mental health support should be flexible and responsive to diverse contexts. The program takes a critical approach, examining the socio-political influences on mental health and deconstructing the underlying ideologies of mainstream therapy models and service design. It actively works to dismantle oppressive systems and promote anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices, integrating cultural humility throughout the training. The teaching staff are described as friendly and supportive, fostering a collaborative environment to help trainees develop into unique and highly competent clinical psychologists who can integrate their personal values with professional development.
Careers
Graduates of this program will be prepared for multiple roles within the field of clinical psychology.
- Clinical Psychologist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the core entry requirements for the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?
- Applicants must have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS, a 2:1 Honours Degree (or 2:2 with demonstrated further academic capability), and at least two years of relevant clinical or research experience. Two satisfactory Statements of Suitability, including one from a current/most recent line manager, are also required.
- How long is the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology program?
- The Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology program has a duration of three years.
- How do I apply for the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?
- Applications are managed through the Clearing House. You will need to check entry requirements, prepare supporting documents like academic transcripts and references, and submit your application via their system. Successful candidates will be invited for an interview.
- What is the application timeline for this program?
- The application period typically opens in autumn for entry the following year. Interviews are usually held in the spring, with offers made in late spring/early summer, and enrolment commencing in September.
- What professional registrations or accreditations will I be eligible for after completing this program?
- Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a clinical psychologist with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and for accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The program is also working towards BABCP and AFT accreditation.
Entry requirements
Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPSMust be held at the time of application. Applicants unsure of GBC status should check with the BPS.
2:1 Honours Degree or equivalentApplicants with a 2:2 degree will be considered if they can demonstrate further academic capability (e.g., strong performance in a relevant higher degree).
Relevant Clinical/Research ExperienceTwo years' full-time equivalent experience (usually post-graduation) in a field relevant to clinical psychology. This experience should demonstrate an understanding of the role and abilities of clinical psychologists and potential to meet these demands, including applying psychological theory in a clinical setting.
ReferencesTwo satisfactory Statements of Suitability are required. One must be from a current/most recent line manager. An academic referee should comment on academic ability or research supervision.
Commitment to local regionsMust be committed to working within the West Essex, Hertfordshire, and Bedfordshire regions.
NHS Funded PlacesCandidates must be acceptable to the NHS as an employee and eligible for home (UK/EU) tuition fee status. A full driving license and access to a vehicle are typically required for travel to placements, though reasonable adjustments will be considered.
English Language ProficiencyHigh level of proficiency in communication in English is essential.
Offers of places are conditional upon satisfactory occupational health clearance and criminal records checks, plus any other necessary checks. There are no Accreditation for Prior (Experiential) Learning (AP(E)L) concessions or exemptions. For NHS-funded places, note that individuals entering other NHS funded psychological professions training after 1 April 2023 are not eligible for further NHS funded training for two years after their initial qualifying exam board.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not available.
Tuition (home)Information not available.
LivingInformation not available.
For NHS funded places, candidates must be eligible for home (UK/EU) tuition fees status. Residence and fees status information can be found on the Clearing House website.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet all academic, experience, and reference requirements, including Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) from the BPS and at least two years of relevant clinical or research experience. For NHS-funded places, confirm eligibility for home (UK/EU) tuition fees.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, and statements of suitability from referees (one of whom must be a line manager). Ensure your referees can comment on your academic ability and/or relevant work experience.
3. Apply via the Clearing HouseSubmit your application through the Clearing House system. Be sure to accurately state your degree classification and any relevant conversion course results. You will need to provide details of your qualifications and experience.
4. Reference SubmissionYour referees will be contacted to provide their statements of suitability as part of the application process.
5. Attend InterviewSuccessful candidates will be invited for an interview. This process assesses your understanding of professional issues, personal qualities, and interpersonal skills suitable for the role of a clinical psychologist.
6. Occupational Health and Criminal Record ChecksOffers of a place are conditional upon satisfactory occupational health clearance and criminal records checks, as well as any other necessary checks.
Accreditation
Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a clinical psychologist with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and for accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The program is also working towards BABCP and AFT accreditation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the core entry requirements for the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?
+
Applicants must have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS, a 2:1 Honours Degree (or 2:2 with demonstrated further academic capability), and at least two years of relevant clinical or research experience. Two satisfactory Statements of Suitability, including one from a current/most recent line manager, are also required.
How long is the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology program?
+
The Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology program has a duration of three years.
How do I apply for the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology?
+
Applications are managed through the Clearing House. You will need to check entry requirements, prepare supporting documents like academic transcripts and references, and submit your application via their system. Successful candidates will be invited for an interview.
What is the application timeline for this program?
+
The application period typically opens in autumn for entry the following year. Interviews are usually held in the spring, with offers made in late spring/early summer, and enrolment commencing in September.
What professional registrations or accreditations will I be eligible for after completing this program?
+
Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a clinical psychologist with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and for accreditation by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The program is also working towards BABCP and AFT accreditation.