Clinical Health Psychology

Overview
Clinical health psychology (sometimes referred to as behavioural medicine, medical psychology or psychosomatic medicine) is an applied discipline that focuses on people with a health condition that could be prevented, treated or rehabilitated through the use of psychological techniques or procedures. The primary interest is on problems that present as physical complaints rather than emotional or mental health issues. Nevertheless, clinical health psychology is concerned with the emotional problems that may arise as a result of a physical health complaint. The topics covered in the MSc include: research methods, health behaviour change, psycho-oncology and adjustment to long term physical illness.

This MSc aims to provide graduate students with an opportunity for advanced study in specialist topics in the field of clinical health psychology and to prepare graduate students for more advanced research in clinical health psychology, professional training in psychology or other discipline-related professional training.

Applications for this course received after 30th June 2024 may not be accepted. In addition, a deposit will be required to secure a place.

Course Structure
This MSc is one-third research methods and analysis, one-third clinical health psychology content and one-third dissertation.

Optional placement
The optional Applied Psychology Experience module will give students the opportunity to undertake a short placement in a setting relevant to the course. This might include working with a Clinical or Health Psychologist or in a third sector organisation.

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2023/24). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

Year 1
Core Modules
Psychological Adjustment In Chronic Physical Conditions (20 credits)
Quantitative Data Analysis 1 (10 credits)
Psycho-oncology: Living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis (20 credits)
Principles of Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology 1 (10 credits)
Research Skills (10 credits)
Research Design and Essential Methods in Clinical Health Psychology (10 credits)
Health Behaviour Change (20 credits)
Clinical Health Psychology Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional Modules
Principles of Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology 2 (10 credits)
Quantitative Data Analysis 2 (10 credits)
Introduction to Therapeutic Skills (10 credits)
Applied Psychology Experience (10 credits)

Graduate
Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or above in Psychology or an acceptable related subject, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

In the absence of a formal qualification that meets the above criteria, applicants may apply for recognition of prior learning. The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL).

External:
An external medical or dental student wishing to intercalate must have successfully completed all assessments at first attempt for the year in which they are applying. External intercalating applicants should also ensure they have the permission of the Head of Undergraduate Medical/Dental Education or equivalent from their home University.

The deadline for applications is normally 30th June 2024. However, we encourage applicants to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 30th June deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.

Please note: a deposit will be required to secure a place.

1 year (Full Time), 2 years (Part Time)

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects
The MSc Clinical Health Psychology is likely to be of interest to students considering careers in Clinical or Health Psychology. We expect some graduates to go on to complete professional training in these areas whilst others may forge careers in the health service, or in the third sector.