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.

 

Career Opportunities

The course aims to train students so that they 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.

 

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.