PhD Clinical Psychology: The University of Manchester

Course description

Research within clinical psychology spans the spectrum of key research themes integral to improving our understanding of psychological disorders. These include:

• Cognition
• Interpersonal and family environments
• The integration of psychological explanation to derive understanding and intervention

Training

Research training within Clinical Psychology provides a flexibile platform for career development whilst offering structured progression to ensure study objectives are met. PhD students will join one of the research groups within the School and quickly be immersed in the current research activity being conducted. Which group students join will depend on the area of study proposed in the PhD application. Within their supervisory team, students will follow an intense induction, including agreeing on the key objectives of the study, resources available, relevant seminars and opportunities for personal development.

Progression

Progression is agreed in line with the PhD supervisory team, and key milestones are established so candidates can monitor their own development. In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, the School of Psychological Sciences hosts a dedicated postgraduate academic group who can provide further advice and guidance. All MPhil and PhD students are also active members of the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Postgraduate Training Programme, which provides transferrable skills training in research methodology, critical writing skills, intellectual property, research ethics etc.

The School also offers the MRes Psychology course, which provides research methodology training within psychology. All research students within the School are encouraged to attend course units from within the programme that are relevant to their research topic.

Typical units include:

• Practical Issues in Psychological Research
• Advanced General Methods in Psychology
• Structured Approaches to Qualitative Data in Psychology
• Philosophical and Conceptual Issues in Psychology
• Using Advanced Statistics in Psychology

Career opportunities

A MPhil/PhD in Psychology provides individuals with a competitive edge in a number of diverse fields, such as:

• Cognitive neuroscience
• Mental health
• Media and promotions
• Research consultancy

It may also provide a stepping stone to Clinical Psychology training.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: Applicants for PhD study are expected to hold a minimum 2:1 at undergraduate level. However, additional qualifications or research experience can compensate for a 2:2 degree under certain circumstances. Applicants holding a Masters degree in a relevant subject are particularly encouraged to apply. For an assessment of individual entry qualifications candidates should contact the School of Psychological Sciences directly.

English language: Students whose first language is not English are required to hold IELTS 7.0, or TOEFL 600 paper-based or 250 computer based.