Doctor of Psychological Science (Clinical Psychology)

at National University of Ireland Galway

This programme provides trainees with a thorough and integrated training in academic, practical and research aspects of clinical psychology through teaching blocks, supervised clinical placements and supervised clinically relevant research projects.
 

Clinical competence is developed in four supervised placements over the programme’s three years. The placements provide trainees with experience of clinical psychology practice under the supervision of experienced clinical psychologists. Trainees have placements in mental health settings, working with both child and adult clients, and in services for people with learning disabilities. Other placements include services for elderly people, rehabilitation services, services for people with acquired brain injury, services for people with addictions, and appropriate settings in general hospitals. The development of personal awareness and interpersonal sensitivity is fostered.
 

The DPsychSc (Clinical) Programme is accredited by the Psychological Society of Ireland as a postgraduate professional training course in clinical psychology.
 

The programme provides basic professional training in many areas of work, including adult clinical psychology, child and adolescent clinical psychology and intellectual disabilities.

Curriculum Information

Year 1 (90 Credits)

• Required PS6143: Theoretical Issues 1 - 10 Credits - Semester 1
• Required PS6142: Research Methods 1 - 10 Credits - Semester 1
• Required PS6141: Clinical Practice 2 - 30 Credits - Semester 1
• Required PS6140: Clinical Practice 1 - 30 Credits - Semester 1
• Required PS6139: Report of Clinical Activity 1 - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Year 2 (90 Credits)

• Required PS6148: Research Methods II - 10 Credits - Semester 3
• Required PS6147: Theoretical Issues 2 - 10 Credits - Semester 3
• Required PS6146: Clinical Practice 4 - 30 Credits - Semester 3
• Required PS6145: Clinical Practice 3 - 30 Credits - Semester 3
• Required PS6144: Report of Clinical Activity 2 - 10 Credits - Semester 3

Year 3 (90 Credits)

• Required PS6125: Research Methods III and Thesis - 55 Credits - Semester 5
• Required PS6124: Clinical Practice 4B - 10 Credits - Semester 5
• Required PS6119: Clinical Practice 4A - 10 Credits - Semester 5
• Required PS6118: Applied Clinical Theory 4 - 5 Credits - Semester 5
• Required PS6117: Applied Clinical Theory 3 - 10 Credits - Semester 5

Undergraduate and mature students can satisfy matriculation registration requirements for NUI Galway by achieving certain grades in the following examinations. 
 

Leaving certificate (for EU and non-EU)

You need a pass in at least six subjects in the Leaving Certificate in accordance with College requirements with:

• Minimum Grade H5 (Higher Level) in two subjects 

• Passes in the remaining four subjects at O6/ H7 
   

You should pick your subjects based on the requirements for entry to your desired course.
 

All subjects of the Leaving Certificate are accepted for matriculation registration purposes, with the exception of Gaeilge Bonnleibhéal (Irish Foundation Level), Mathematics (Ordinary Alternative/Foundation Level and; Home Economics (General), which is recognised only for St. Angela's College, Sligo.
 

GCE and GSCE
 

You need a pass in at least six subjects in accordance with College requirements with at least:

• GCE Advanced Level: Grade C in two recognised subjects and

• GCSE Level: Grade C in four recognised subjects.
   

You should pick your subjects based on the requirements for entry to your desired course.
 

Candidates must hold a degree or PDip in psychology recognised by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) as granting eligibility for graduate membership of PSI. The qualification must be at least upper Second Class Honours level (barring exceptional circumstances). Qualifications deemed equivalent by the College of Arts may also be accepted.
 

At least one year of practical and/or research experience relevant to clinical psychology is generally required. Successful applicants are expected to have a means of transport to enable them to participate in all elements of the programme, including undertaking supervised clinical placements in health settings.

Fees: EU
€13,001 p.a. 2021/22

Fees: Tuition
€12,861 p.a. 2021/22

Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. 2021/22

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities exist for professionally qualified clinical psychologists in a variety of health, forensic and social care settings. Opportunities may also be found in educational services and institutions. Most DPsychSc (Clinical) graduates take up employment in the HSE but a small number are also employed within agencies such as the Brothers of Charity Services and the Irish Prison Service.