Clinical Psychology

Course Overview

Within three years, the course provides an intensive and systematic programme of training, equipping each student to meet the challenges facing clinical psychology and to make a unique contribution to the Irish Health Services. A core value in the course is the emphasis on linking theory and practice, informed by the reflective scientist practitioner philosophy of integrated training in research methods, academic knowledge and clinical experience.



The course holds P.S.I. Accreditation.



Is This Course For Me?

The Doctorate in Clinical Psychology is designed to provide high-quality postgraduate professional training in Clinical Psychology leading to the award of a doctoral qualification. The course is designed to produce clinical psychologists who are equipped with the skills to respond flexibly to the changing demands of the Irish health and related services.



Course Structure

The course is structured so that the academic teaching typically takes place in term time for one and a half days per week. In addition, each placement is preceded by a teaching block of approximately four weeks duration. Students complete six clinical placements during the course, each approximately five months in duration, providing knowledge, skills and experience to work with as wide a range of clients as possible. Research training is continuous across the programme.



Course requirements include continuous clinical assessment, examinations and a research portfolio combining reports of clinical activity, research projects and demonstrating research competency across a range of methodologies. Progress on the course is assessed by an end-of-year review.

Course Content

The course comprises three major components: research training, academic training and clinical placements. Students currently spend approximately 55% of course time on clinical placement. The remainder is divided between the taught academic programme and research activity. The academic programme consists of fourteen academic modules over three years.



Modules offered in recent years include: Adult Clinical Psychology; Psychotherapeutic Skills and Practice; Research Methods and Statistics; Placement Theory and Practice; Advanced Issues in Clinical Psychology; Psychotherapeutic Skills and Practice; Clinical Psychology and Intellectual Disability; Child Clinical Psychology; Specialist Topics; Transition to Qualified Status.



Click here for further information on modules/subjects.

Admission Requirements

Requirements include a primary honours degree in Psychology with at least an upper second-class award (2.1) or equivalent. Good research skills and relevant experience are essential.



Candidates are required to hold graduate basis for registration with the Psychological Society of Ireland. Students will need a full and valid driving licence.



Students will be required to undergo Garda Vetting, you can learn more at: https://www.tcd.ie/students/orientation/postgraduates/garda-vetting.php

3 years full-time

Next Intake September 2025

Career Opportunities

The course aims to train students who on completion will be equipped to function as independent career grade clinical psychologists in the Irish health service under appropriate supervision. A number of graduates also go on to further clinical research.