Applied Clinical Psychology

Entry requirements

Entry requirement: 2:2 minimum in an undergraduate course with Psychology major, including successful completion of research methods modules (covering quantitative and qualitative approaches) and a dissertation (independent research project) module.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Gain an in-depth understanding of clinical psychology with this evidence-based Master’s degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Suitable for graduates with a relevant degree, this MSc will prepare you to train in various mental health disciplines and can be a stepping stone to doctoral training.

Taught in collaboration with the Salomons Institute of Psychology, which is a part of CCCU, our MSc Applied Clinical Psychology will enable you to apply scientific theory and principles of psychology to help in the understanding and alleviation of psychological distress and dysfunction, whilst promoting wellbeing.

With a strong emphasis on research, you will gain a sound understanding of clinical psychology assessment, formulation, intervention, and evaluations across a range of theoretical models and client groups.

What’s more, you will develop a reflective and critical understanding of developmental, social, cultural, and organisational contexts, and their impact on individuals and the delivery of psychological services. With our course taking a person-centred approach, you will appreciate the importance and nature of service-user perspectives.

Why study MSc Applied Clinical Psychology at CCCU?

• Learn from a range of qualified clinical psychologists, active researchers, and mental health experts.
• Prioritise a person-centred and evidence-based approach to your practice as you gain a well-rounded understanding of clinical psychology.
• Choose to study on a full or part-time basis to suit your circumstances.

Your future career

The aim of the programme is to provide you with a detailed understanding and knowledge of the theory and practice of clinical psychology, in preparation for potentially undertaking doctoral training in clinical psychology*, or training in other mental health-related disciplines. It therefore serves as a potential stepping stone towards a career in clinical psychology or mental health.

The course prepares students for roles, including:

• Digital Mental Health Content Developer
• School Mental Health Coordinator
• Mental Health Research Manager
• Volunteer Coordinator for crisis services
• Mental Health Campaign Coordinator
• Workplace Mental Health Advisor
• Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP)
• Research Assistant
• Assistant Psychologist
• Patient Experience Officer
• NHS Clinical Quality Audit Officer

* It should be noted that this MSc does not form part of a doctoral qualification in clinical psychology or form part of a professional qualification as a clinical psychologist, and does not guarantee students entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate course. Furthermore, completion of this MSc is not a requirement for entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate course. However, clinical psychology is a highly sought after career, and it is intended that this course will provide valuable learning in preparation for seeking clinical psychology training.

If you are wanting to continue your studies, you can do so with the Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology.

We also have a Careers and Enterprise Team. They can help you achieve your future goals with lots of free online resources and support, plus advice on CV writing and job applications, interviews and assessments, skills building and personal development.

Industry links

Teaching is conducted by a range of mental health practitioners and qualified clinical psychologists working in the NHS or based at the Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology. We also have an expert by experience visit and discuss service user involvement.

We offer a field trip to the Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology to learn about applying for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and meet with trainees.

There are opportunities to become an ambassador or student course representative and have access to bespoke training delivered by the Students' Union. Students can log the hours that they spend on student rep business on their Christ Church Volunteering Profile. This enables them to work towards one of four Certificates in Volunteering, helping their CV or LinkedIn profile stand out from the crowd.

20% Alumni Discount

We offer alumni discounts on CCCU Postgraduate Taught, PGCE Primary and Secondary, and Master's by Research courses for eligible students.

Visit the Applied Clinical Psychology - MSc page on the Canterbury Christ Church University website for more details!

Fees and funding

Home tuition fees will be £9,835 and International tuition fees will be £17,000 for the 2026/27 academic year.

20% Alumni Discount

We offer alumni discounts on CCCU Postgraduate Taught, PGCE Primary and Secondary, and Master's by Research courses for eligible students.