Note: This qualification is covered by the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Vaccinations) Amendment Order 2021. Students are required to provide details of their vaccination status on enrolment.

The Doctor of Clinical Psychology is a professional qualification that prepares you to integrate practice and research in your career as a clinical psychologist.

Places on this programme are highly sought-after and there is a competitive entry process.

Clinical psychology is an applied branch of psychology. It uses psychological techniques to help people solve a wide variety of mental, physical, behavioural and relationship problems.

What does the programme cover?

The Doctor of Clinical Psychology is a full-time qualification. You’ll take courses, do practical placements, complete an internship of supervised full-time practical work for at least one academic year and a doctoral dissertation (thesis).

Develop practical skills

You’ll get practical skills through practica placements. There are typically three placements in a variety of health service agencies, such as:

• child and family
• community mental health
• drug and alcohol
• rehabilitation
• secondary care
• forensic
• Massey Student Health and Counselling
• Psychological Service/Department of Corrections
• Massey psychology clinics.

Get a diverse perspective

Massey is committed to the principles embodied in the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi. You’ll be well trained from a variety of perspectives and be sensitive to the needs of people from diverse backgrounds and across their lifespan.

Our staff have a range of experience and interests. They approach clinical work from a variety of empirical and theoretical frameworks.

The scientist-practitioner model

Clinical training at Massey is based on the scientist-practitioner model. This emphasises the need for clinical psychologists to have a strong research background, as well as clinical skills. You’ll formulate an approach to understanding human behaviour that has a strong theoretical base.

Internationally recognised and market-leading in New Zealand

Massey graduates more researchers and clinical psychologists than any other university in New Zealand.

We’re connected to a wide range of community and statutory organisations. Our unique and applied psychology research and training is recognised nationally and internationally. This expertise enhances the reputation of your degree and ensures your knowledge is relevant to today’s society.