Clinical Applications of Psychology
Work with world-leading researchers in understanding mental health problems and making a difference to people’s lives.
in the region for postgraduates progressing into senior roles.
Source: Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026
Learn to assess and understand the complex issues many people living with mental health problems experience.
Supported by research-active staff, you’ll also examine ways to manage these issues and find appropriate treatment.
You’ll graduate with the theoretical knowledge and practical tools to work in mental health services, clinical psychology or allied professions.
Please note that this course does not constitute professional training. However, it can support entry to a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (or equivalent).
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Learn how to support people living with mental health problems
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Prepare for further training in the fields of clinical psychology or mental health
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Learn from research-active staff and guest lecturers
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Use industry-standard facilities on campus in Cambridge
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
Get the skills you need for further professional training in clinical psychology.
With statistics suggesting 1 in 4 people live with or experience a mental health problem in their lifetime, there’s demand for clinical psychologists.
This course won’t qualify you to work as a clinical psychologist, but it can support entry to further training.
Alternatively, it’s an excellent basis for working in other mental health and care environments.
Teaching and modules
Develop your understanding of mental health problems and their diagnosis.
You’ll consider factors that affect mental health, including psychological, biological and sociocultural risk factors. We’ll explore current debates surrounding diagnosis, as you learn about the formulation and treatment process of different mental health problems in adults.
There’s also the opportunity to apply your theoretical knowledge to develop basic counselling skills.
You’ll also build your research skills, with optional modules focusing on statistical techniques in psychological research; or research methods and impact. Your Psychology Dissertation is chance to put your skills into practice, as you carry out a significant research project and present the results in a thesis.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Mental Health and Distress: Approaches to Assessment and Diagnosis
- Issues in Scientific Research
- Clinical Formulation and Treatment
- Psychology Dissertation (60 credits)
- Essential Research Methods (30 credits) *
- Quantitative Research Methods *
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as MSc/MA students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students. For example if the MSc/MA course takes one year, you can expect to study over two years, though for some courses this may vary.
- Mental Health and Distress: Approaches to Assessment and Diagnosis
- Essential Research Methods (30 credits) *
- Quantitative Research Methods *
- Issues in Scientific Research
- Clinical Formulation and Treatment
- Psychology Dissertation (60 credits)
Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.
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Dr Débora Vasconcelos e SáSenior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology
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Dr Jane ScottSenior Lecturer
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Prof David PearsonProfessor of Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience
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Dr Sharon GevaSenior Lecturer in Psychology and Neuroscience
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Professor Sharon Morein-ZamirProfessor
Facilities
Enjoy a range of facilities designed to support your studies and career development.
These include extensive library and IT resources, and careers support through our Employability Service. After you graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to our Alumni Career Centre.
You can also access support, should you need it, with study skills, health and wellbeing, and more.