MSc Psychology (Conversion)

I am considering applying for an MSc psychology conversion course, with the goal of eventually becoming a clinical psychologist. However I have read mixed reviews of these courses and I am concerned that in reality it will be impossible to get onto a clinical psychology doctorate with just the conversion course. I'm aware practical experience is also needed and would aim to gain this alongside/in the year after completing the MSc. Is this a realistic goal or would I just be wasting my time/money? Also, would the ranking of the university have an impact on the likelihood of securing a place on the doctorate?

Reply 1

Charizard96

5

Hay! So, I can't say much about whether it will be a waste of time, but I can say that you might not even need to do it. For context, my goal is to complete my MSc in forensic psychology and eventually try for my PhD. Also, I'm an international student. I was told that the only way I'd be able to get into a master's program is by completing a conversion course first. However, I recently got accepted into a master's program without the conversion. Although it's true that I might need the conversion course in the future (if my undergrad isn't accredited (which I'm still waiting to find out)), it at least means I won't possibly be wasting the money now.

Also, as far as I'm aware, to proceed to doctorate level, you need to complete an MSc, not just an MSc conversion. I could be wrong though...

Reply 2

Nerol

21

Original post by Florence12

I am considering applying for an MSc psychology conversion course, with the goal of eventually becoming a clinical psychologist. However I have read mixed reviews of these courses and I am concerned that in reality it will be impossible to get onto a clinical psychology doctorate with just the conversion course. I'm aware practical experience is also needed and would aim to gain this alongside/in the year after completing the MSc. Is this a realistic goal or would I just be wasting my time/money? Also, would the ranking of the university have an impact on the likelihood of securing a place on the doctorate?

If you don't have a BPS accredited undergraduate psychology degree, you will need the conversion degree to be eligible to apply for the Clinical Psychology doctorate and to practice as a Clinical Psychologist in the future. You would not necessarily need a further MSc as the above poster suggested, but you would need to gain substantial relevant clinical experience.

With the right experience and a good grade for your MSc you would have a chance at getting onto the doctorate program, however it is an extremely competitive course, so there is no guarantee and it takes some people years to get on.

Reply 3

Arden University

17

@Florence12
There is some great advice here already, it is a competitive area.

A course accredited with the BPS is essential for what you want. If you want a decent overview of a provider check out their quality report from the QAA (a bit like an Ofsted report for Universities) and their teaching excellence framework report - both readily available online.

I did my MSc Psychology conversion at Arden, which is accredited with the BPS and had a brilliant time

Marc
Arden University Student Ambassador

Reply 4

Strive92

4

I am doing an MSc Psychology conversion at UoS and aside from your main concerns I really do think that my brain is so full of information and that the course really pushed me to the pinnacle of my academic ability. I think I have really blossomed into a very competent researcher with a strong critical and explorative style, and I have enjoyed deepening my understanding and specialisms in Psychology.

I hope that my grades will overall reflect this, however, even if somehow I messed up the dissertation, I think I have learned so much and have become very skilled and confident. I think I can largely attribute that to my own hard work and the pressure of the MSc demands.

Reply 5

University of Surrey Student Rep

Official Rep

15

Original post by Florence12

I am considering applying for an MSc psychology conversion course, with the goal of eventually becoming a clinical psychologist. However I have read mixed reviews of these courses and I am concerned that in reality it will be impossible to get onto a clinical psychology doctorate with just the conversion course. I'm aware practical experience is also needed and would aim to gain this alongside/in the year after completing the MSc. Is this a realistic goal or would I just be wasting my time/money? Also, would the ranking of the university have an impact on the likelihood of securing a place on the doctorate?

Hello,

I'm currently studying for my MSc in Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Surrey, and I'm absolutely loving it :smile:

A BPS-accredited course is essential. I've made so many connections and it's been great for personal growth. The course is quite intensive, but you learn a lot within a year. I'm currently working as a research assistant using EEG and it's such a great experience! I know people at the uni who are doing e.g. a neuroscience PhD after doing the conversion course. Many of us are completing the course and then gaining work experience (PWP roles, healthcare assistants, support roles, IAPTs, etc) and then will be applying for a PhD in Clinical Psychology. It may be difficult but it's definitely achievable! Just follow your passion and be open to constantly learning :smile:

Wish you the best of luck with it all and let me know if you have any questions!

Sam (she/her)
MSc Psychology

MSc Psychology (Conversion)

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