Online programme
MSc Clinical Psychology (Online)
This online MSc provides you with the experience and knowledge to fast track your career and start your journey to become a qualified clinical psychologist.
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About
Learn from a top 20 UK Psychology department, taught by expert, research-active staff specialising in clinical and applied psychology, cognition, perception, neuropsychology, and social and developmental psychology.
Clinically focused and practice-driven, this masters goes beyond theory to provide a deep understanding of the biopsychosocial approach to mental health.
You’ll gain advanced knowledge of clinical practice and research, with training in essential clinical skills, preparing you for real-world impact in mental health and psychological care.
Bespoke by design
This isn’t a traditional course simply moved online – it’s been thoughtfully designed to make the most of digital learning, creating a rich, interactive experience that fits around your life and career.
Campus-quality experience delivered online
Study flexibly at your own pace while staying connected through live, interactive sessions with field experts and a global student community. With both live and recorded lectures, podcasts, guided reading and student forums, you’ll get the support and inspiration of an on-campus programme, online.
Research-informed teaching grounded in real-world practice
You’ll get real-time teaching contact and support from academics with clinical practice and research profile who deliver a rigorous, clinically informed curriculum grounded in real-world psychological practice.
Details
Year 1
Learn from experts across diverse therapeutic approaches and gain a comprehensive understanding of intervention models. Develop advanced knowledge of clinical practice and research, with training in essential clinical skills embedded throughout the course.
Our flexible learning model combines live and recorded lectures with independent study and research, designed to fit around your life and work commitments. Join a weekly live session (9:00–13:00 GMT), access pre-recorded lectures, and benefit from one-to-one tutor support to help you succeed. Can’t attend live? No problem, all sessions are recorded and available on demand.
Core modules
PSYC728DL
Brain, Body and Pain
20 credits
This module introduces students to the intrinsic links between body, brain and mind through a range of long-term conditions with both physical and psychological components, including cancer, functional conditions and endocrine disorders. Students will also learn about mechanisms of pain and the role of individual differences that impact on individuals with such long-term conditions.
PSYC732DL
Biopsychosocial approaches to intervention in Psychology
20 credits
This module covers a range of contemporary interventions for psychological and behavioural problems, including cognitive approaches as well as social aspects that are designed for individuals across the lifespan. The module also looks at the impact of biological mechanisms, development, and individual differences on psychological interventions and explores how laboratory research can be translated into new interventions.
100% Coursework
PSYC735DL
Neuropsychology and Neuroscience: From Lab to Community
20 credits
This module provides a comprehensive overview of core topics in cognitive and biological psychology and demonstrates how different cognitive and neuroscience techniques can be used to advance understanding cognition and relates to neurological conditions. Students are introduced to a range of neuropsychological conditions and approaches to intervention from lab through to hospital and community settings.
100% Coursework
PSYC736DL
Becoming a Practitioner Psychologist
20 credits
This module provides foundational knowledge in the theory and practice of psychology. Students are introduced to social, cognitive, and developmental theories underpinning psychology through critical examination of social, biological and environmental circumstances influencing behaviour with a particular focus on health. Students will learn contemporary approaches to health through a biopsychosocial and developmental lens.
100% Practicals
Final year
Core modules
PSYC731DL
Core Clinical Competencies for Practice in Psychology
20 credits
This module introduces students to core competencies in clinical practice and key elements of professional development. Practical and experiential learning help students develop these competencies, and reflective activities aid students in the process of taking control of their own professional development - identifying strengths, weaknesses and formulating a plan for treatment.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
PSYC733DL
Techniques for Psychological Research
20 credits
The module introduces students to a range of approaches to data collection and analysis approaches including interviewing, surveys, systematic reviewing and experimental design using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies as well as mixed approaches. It also provides students with a grounding in core research skills such as writing, literature reviewing and poster production.
100% Coursework
PSYC727DL
MSc Research Project
60 credits
This module requires students to undertake a research project in an area associated with their specialist area of interest. It comprises an independent piece of research work conducted by the student and written up as a research report.
90% Coursework
10% Practicals
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Careers
If you are a recent graduate, or working in a professional setting, including as a counsellor, psychotherapist, occupational therapist or social worker, this MSc allows you to start your journey to become a clinical psychologist or to enhance your career with knowledge and understanding of clinical psychology.
For those who have a BPS GBC, this masters provides the skills and learning to apply for the
DClinPsy Clinical Psychology
.
Please note: The MSc Clinical Psychology is not accredited by the British Psychological Society and does not confer graduate basis for chartership (GBC). Applicants seeking this route should apply to our
MSc Psychology
programme. Furthermore, this course does not lead to HCPC registration or the use of Protected Titles (e.g. Clinical Psychologist).
Research-informed teaching
Learn from leading psychology experts
Plymouth is a centre of excellence in psychological research and a top-rated department in a Modern UK University, with 83% of our research output rated as ‘world-leading’ (4*) or of ‘international quality’ (3*) (Research Excellence Framework, 2014). Our research is rated equal to or above Cambridge, Nottingham, Aberdeen, Bath, UCL, York and Durham.
Staff in the School of Psychology are currently active in research on applied psychology, cognition, perception, neuropsychology, social and developmental psychology. Many of our teaching staff are Higher Education Academy fellows with all new staff required to qualify for a fellowship.
We have a thriving PhD community, with around 80 doctoral students.
Dr Sophie Homer
Associate Professor of Psychology
Professor Jackie Andrade
Professor in Psychology
Dr Gray Atherton
Lecturer in Psychology
Online experience
Studying a postgraduate degree online with the University of Plymouth offers more than just a qualification — it’s an opportunity to explore your subject in depth, challenge your thinking, and grow both personally and professionally.
Our flexible, fully online programmes are designed to fit around your life, so you can balance learning with your personal and professional commitments. You'll benefit from expert teaching, a collaborative virtual learning environment, and access to a welcoming, supportive student community — all from wherever you are.
Whether you’re continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth’s online learning experience gives you the space, structure and inspiration to thrive — on your terms.
Your Plymouth community – wherever you are
As an online student at the University of Plymouth, you’re still a full member of our vibrant student community. You’ll have access to a wide range of support services, online events, virtual student societies, and wellbeing resources, all designed to keep you connected and supported throughout your studies.
Being online doesn’t mean being alone. From joining national student networks and online clubs to accessing academic support and virtual meet-ups, there are plenty of ways to get involved and stay connected.
You’re part of the Plymouth community — wherever you’re studying from — so take advantage of everything that’s available to you.
Join our global community
At the University of Plymouth, you’ll be part of a vibrant international community of more than 2,000 students from over 100 countries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to achieve your goals and make the most of your time studying in the UK.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
To be confirmed per year
To be confirmed per year
Part-time study
To be confirmed per 10 credits
To be confirmed per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
To be confirmed per year
To be confirmed per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Apply
Entry requirements
UK/EU
A relevant degree with honours or an equivalent professional qualification. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered. Non-standard applications will be considered on a case by case basis.
International
Please view the
country specific pages
for further information regarding the equivalency of your degree. International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent, see our
English language requirements
.
Pre-sessional English language courses
are available if you do not meet these requirements.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our
tariff glossary
.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8079
8079
Duration
2 years
Course type
Part-time Distance learning
Study location
Online
Online
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course
- two passport photographs
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent
in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8079
8079
Duration
2 years
Course type
Part-time Distance learning
Study location
Online
Online
Other routes to this course
If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the
University of Plymouth International College (UPIC)
.