Psychology masters help

Looking for some advice on masters degrees If someone could please help me without judgement. So I am coming my final year of my psychology degree, and for a while I have been thinking, I would like to do a Master of science first before hopefully one day applying to the DClinPsy when I’ve built some more relevant work experience, as I would like to pursue the clinical psychology route. I’ve had mixed responses when I talk about this, some saying that a msc is essentially a waste of time, and others saying that due to the doctorate being such a competitive course it helps to have a masters under your belt. I would like to say I am not wanting to do a masters to have an extra degree to show off, but rather to expand my academic experience first as I think I would find a straight jump from an undergrad to a doctorate extremely daunting, so for that reason I don’t really like when people try to sway me from doing a masters first. I think I have a little bit of imposter syndrome as my A levels weren’t brilliant, I started uni a few years after my friends and think it knocked my confidence a bit, however I have passed each module with a first throughout my degree since I started so I know I am capable and not as stupid as I sometimes feel. I’ve been working hard to make sure I get firsts in all my research methods modules as that seems to be desirable for most courses that I’m looking at, and I’ve managed to pass them all above 70 throughout and just have my dissertation to go now. The ones that I have my eye on are Applied Clinical Psychology in UCLAN or Clinical and Health Psychology in Manchester (both msc). My question was, I’m unsure of which type of masters to go for as most unis in my area (not wanting to move from home) tend to be Msc in general psychology, which I’m not sure would be the best choice for what I’d like to do as it’s quite broad? However some courses seem to surround mental health for example, or wellbeing, others in psychotherapy etc. I’m just finding it all so overwhelming at the moment. I don’t know if this is a bad attitude to have (I’m more just trying not to get my heart totally set on a specific career for my own sanity and take it a step at a time, as I am aware of how competitive the DClinPsy is) but I think if I am going to do a masters I may as well do one that I could still put to use if the doctorate doesn’t work out? I hope that makes sense. I’m looking for one that would still give me a bit of extra knowledge and preparation rather than jumping straight into a doctorate, but that wouldn’t go to waste if there was a change of plan, or would be useful in an alternative career in counselling perhaps, just as an example. I know some people have years and years of clinical experience, good degrees etc but still struggle to get into the doctorate, so I think having a plan B is just always sensible. Thanks so much

Looking for some advice on masters degrees If someone could please help me without judgement. So I am coming my final year of my psychology degree, and for a while I have been thinking, I would like to do a Master of science first before hopefully one day applying to the DClinPsy when I’ve built some more relevant work experience, as I would like to pursue the clinical psychology route. I’ve had mixed responses when I talk about this, some saying that a msc is essentially a waste of time, and others saying that due to the doctorate being such a competitive course it helps to have a masters under your belt. I would like to say I am not wanting to do a masters to have an extra degree to show off, but rather to expand my academic experience first as I think I would find a straight jump from an undergrad to a doctorate extremely daunting, so for that reason I don’t really like when people try to sway me from doing a masters first. I think I have a little bit of imposter syndrome as my A levels weren’t brilliant, I started uni a few years after my friends and think it knocked my confidence a bit, however I have passed each module with a first throughout my degree since I started so I know I am capable and not as stupid as I sometimes feel. I’ve been working hard to make sure I get firsts in all my research methods modules as that seems to be desirable for most courses that I’m looking at, and I’ve managed to pass them all above 70 throughout and just have my dissertation to go now. The ones that I have my eye on are Applied Clinical Psychology in UCLAN or Clinical and Health Psychology in Manchester (both msc). My question was, I’m unsure of which type of masters to go for as most unis in my area (not wanting to move from home) tend to be Msc in general psychology, which I’m not sure would be the best choice for what I’d like to do as it’s quite broad? However some courses seem to surround mental health for example, or wellbeing, others in psychotherapy etc. I’m just finding it all so overwhelming at the moment. I don’t know if this is a bad attitude to have (I’m more just trying not to get my heart totally set on a specific career for my own sanity and take it a step at a time, as I am aware of how competitive the DClinPsy is) but I think if I am going to do a masters I may as well do one that I could still put to use if the doctorate doesn’t work out? I hope that makes sense. I’m looking for one that would still give me a bit of extra knowledge and preparation rather than jumping straight into a doctorate, but that wouldn’t go to waste if there was a change of plan, or would be useful in an alternative career in counselling perhaps, just as an example. I know some people have years and years of clinical experience, good degrees etc but still struggle to get into the doctorate, so I think having a plan B is just always sensible. Thanks so much

Looking for some advice on masters degrees If someone could please help me without judgement. So I am coming my final year of my psychology degree, and for a while I have been thinking, I would like to do a Master of science first before hopefully one day applying to the DClinPsy when I’ve built some more relevant work experience, as I would like to pursue the clinical psychology route. I’ve had mixed responses when I talk about this, some saying that a msc is essentially a waste of time, and others saying that due to the doctorate being such a competitive course it helps to have a masters under your belt. I would like to say I am not wanting to do a masters to have an extra degree to show off, but rather to expand my academic experience first as I think I would find a straight jump from an undergrad to a doctorate extremely daunting, so for that reason I don’t really like when people try to sway me from doing a masters first. I think I have a little bit of imposter syndrome as my A levels weren’t brilliant, I started uni a few years after my friends and think it knocked my confidence a bit, however I have passed each module with a first throughout my degree since I started so I know I am capable and not as stupid as I sometimes feel. I’ve been working hard to make sure I get firsts in all my research methods modules as that seems to be desirable for most courses that I’m looking at, and I’ve managed to pass them all above 70 throughout and just have my dissertation to go now. The ones that I have my eye on are Applied Clinical Psychology in UCLAN or Clinical and Health Psychology in Manchester (both msc). My question was, I’m unsure of which type of masters to go for as most unis in my area (not wanting to move from home) tend to be Msc in general psychology, which I’m not sure would be the best choice for what I’d like to do as it’s quite broad? However some courses seem to surround mental health for example, or wellbeing, others in psychotherapy etc. I’m just finding it all so overwhelming at the moment. I don’t know if this is a bad attitude to have (I’m more just trying not to get my heart totally set on a specific career for my own sanity and take it a step at a time, as I am aware of how competitive the DClinPsy is) but I think if I am going to do a masters I may as well do one that I could still put to use if the doctorate doesn’t work out? I hope that makes sense. I’m looking for one that would still give me a bit of extra knowledge and preparation rather than jumping straight into a doctorate, but that wouldn’t go to waste if there was a change of plan, or would be useful in an alternative career in counselling perhaps, just as an example. I know some people have years and years of clinical experience, good degrees etc but still struggle to get into the doctorate, so I think having a plan B is just always sensible. Thanks so much

Hi,

I second what the other person said regarding your A-levels and starting university later than others. I was in the same boat and am starting the DClinPsy this year

In terms of masters or not masters - there a few YouTube people in the realm of psychology who have discussed this eg Sharon B Psych and The Oxford Psych which you might helpful to view.

I can’t tell you what specific Msc to pick. Some considerations though -

1) A msc is usually only 1 year and rarely BPS accredited due to the breadth of the structure of the course. I would ensure the course you choose has the credentials you need (eg if you were to pursue health psych, you’d need a bps accredited health psych Msc)

2) cost. Mscs are very expensive and unless you’re incredibly fortunate, will need to work part time to cover fees even with a loan. So think about what you’re actually gaining from a msc.

3) does the course have good links with NHS/ other services relevant to mental health/ your career goals? I specially chose Msc courses that provided placements

4) in terms of academia, does the course have reputable academic staff & clinicians? I found the level of stats/ research methods I learn at my Msc was way beyond my undergrad but some others I’ve spoken to did not go as in depth in their msc.

If you are stressing to do something that could be a plan B - I would go back to point 1. Most Mscs in psychology do not set you up for a psych specific job other than things like the PWP role or the health psychology Msc hence it is hard to comment unless you have concrete career plans. Most Mscs are largely theoretical. You can’t walk into a job interview and say “well I did a msc in xyz so I should get this job.” It’s really the work placement/ experience side of things that you will pull from.

You could also look at some funded training courses like the PWP route, clinical associate psychologist (CAP) - there are a few more but I can’t remember.

Just be aware of the 2 year funded rule from HEE.

Hi there @EW2000x,

Please try not to worry about starting university a few years after you friends did. Everyone is on different journeys and there no correct time to start university. Although you are feeling overwhelmed at the minute which is completely normal, it seems like you know what you want to achieve which is great and you have to take the path that suits you best.

It's great to hear that you are interested in studying MSc Applied Clinical Psychology at UCLan. Let me highlight some of the opportunities that are available to you studying here:

- Our programme strengthens academic credentials in preparation for a career in Clinical Psychology
You’ll also strengthen your CV in preparation for other professions in the areas of Clinical Psychology, mental health, academia, or research.

- Past students have gone on to secure positions as Assistant Clinical Psychologists in a range of services
These include, specialist learning disabilities teams within the NHS, forensic services, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners and Psychology Healthcare Assistants in the NHS, Mental Wellbeing Practitioners in the private sector.

If you have any questions please do let me know as I'd be more than happy to answer them for you.

All the best with your dissertation,
Sarah

Hey,

I think you've had some really great advice above! My only thing I would add (as someone currently doing PhD psychology after a master's), whilst I know the clinical doctorate is slightly different to a normal PhD programme, most doctorate programmes do prefer you to have a master's just for the additional academic and research experience which will greatly benefit you when doing a doctorate. The stats/research methods as mentioned above is also in much greater depth at MSc level which can really help you in your doctorate. However, you can get research experience elsewhere. The doctorate application may just go a little smoother with a master's; one of my friends applied for a PhD programme without one and was refused due to a lack of research experience.

Best of luck with everything!!

Natalie
University of Kent Student Rep

Hi,

I second what the other person said regarding your A-levels and starting university later than others. I was in the same boat and am starting the DClinPsy this year

In terms of masters or not masters - there a few YouTube people in the realm of psychology who have discussed this eg Sharon B Psych and The Oxford Psych which you might helpful to view.

I can’t tell you what specific Msc to pick. Some considerations though -

1) A msc is usually only 1 year and rarely BPS accredited due to the breadth of the structure of the course. I would ensure the course you choose has the credentials you need (eg if you were to pursue health psych, you’d need a bps accredited health psych Msc)

2) cost. Mscs are very expensive and unless you’re incredibly fortunate, will need to work part time to cover fees even with a loan. So think about what you’re actually gaining from a msc.

3) does the course have good links with NHS/ other services relevant to mental health/ your career goals? I specially chose Msc courses that provided placements

4) in terms of academia, does the course have reputable academic staff & clinicians? I found the level of stats/ research methods I learn at my Msc was way beyond my undergrad but some others I’ve spoken to did not go as in depth in their msc.

If you are stressing to do something that could be a plan B - I would go back to point 1. Most Mscs in psychology do not set you up for a psych specific job other than things like the PWP role or the health psychology Msc hence it is hard to comment unless you have concrete career plans. Most Mscs are largely theoretical. You can’t walk into a job interview and say “well I did a msc in xyz so I should get this job.” It’s really the work placement/ experience side of things that you will pull from.

You could also look at some funded training courses like the PWP route, clinical associate psychologist (CAP) - there are a few more but I can’t remember.

Just be aware of the 2 year funded rule from HEE.

Hey,

I think you've had some really great advice above! My only thing I would add (as someone currently doing PhD psychology after a master's), whilst I know the clinical doctorate is slightly different to a normal PhD programme, most doctorate programmes do prefer you to have a master's just for the additional academic and research experience which will greatly benefit you when doing a doctorate. The stats/research methods as mentioned above is also in much greater depth at MSc level which can really help you in your doctorate. However, you can get research experience elsewhere. The doctorate application may just go a little smoother with a master's; one of my friends applied for a PhD programme without one and was refused due to a lack of research experience.

Best of luck with everything!!

Natalie
University of Kent Student Rep

Thanks so much, this has been really helpful! I really like Sharon B I’m familiar with her, and as silly as it sounds I try to follow as many similar accounts of postgrad students or assistant psychologists etc on youtube/tiktok, I find it really useful and helpful to see the different routes they take, and I’ve found some good advice in their videos. Interestingly I hadn’t seen your reply until tonight but the issue of whether the courses are accredited is what has been worrying me today! I think it might be an idea for me to ask my tutors what they think too. Lots to think about. Will keep an eye on this thread, thanks very much!

Hi, thanks for the reply

I forgot about this thread and been a bit overwhelmed looking at courses tonight which has reminded me to pop on and check replies! Thank you for your help, I’ve just realised that the thing that has been bothering me tonight has actually been mentioned by another commenter below. I’ve started my application for the Applied Clinical Psych course in UCLAN, and I’ve realised it isn’t BPS accredited? I’m a bit confused about how much this matters with a master’s. My undergrad course is accredited, so would a unaccredited MSc be seen as an “extra” research or be totally unrecognised a few years down the line if I was to start looking at doctorate applications? As I understand you don’t “need” a masters for the Dclinpsy, so I’m unsure if it makes any difference to have a unaccredited Masters. It’s just such a big decision so I wouldn’t want it to be a waste but I would definitely like to strengthen my academic abilities with a masters before I thought about a doctorate, alongside good work experience obviously. Any help would be appreciated

Looking for some advice on masters degrees If someone could please help me without judgement. So I am coming my final year of my psychology degree, and for a while I have been thinking, I would like to do a Master of science first before hopefully one day applying to the DClinPsy when I’ve built some more relevant work experience, as I would like to pursue the clinical psychology route. I’ve had mixed responses when I talk about this, some saying that a msc is essentially a waste of time, and others saying that due to the doctorate being such a competitive course it helps to have a masters under your belt. I would like to say I am not wanting to do a masters to have an extra degree to show off, but rather to expand my academic experience first as I think I would find a straight jump from an undergrad to a doctorate extremely daunting, so for that reason I don’t really like when people try to sway me from doing a masters first. I think I have a little bit of imposter syndrome as my A levels weren’t brilliant, I started uni a few years after my friends and think it knocked my confidence a bit, however I have passed each module with a first throughout my degree since I started so I know I am capable and not as stupid as I sometimes feel. I’ve been working hard to make sure I get firsts in all my research methods modules as that seems to be desirable for most courses that I’m looking at, and I’ve managed to pass them all above 70 throughout and just have my dissertation to go now. The ones that I have my eye on are Applied Clinical Psychology in UCLAN or Clinical and Health Psychology in Manchester (both msc). My question was, I’m unsure of which type of masters to go for as most unis in my area (not wanting to move from home) tend to be Msc in general psychology, which I’m not sure would be the best choice for what I’d like to do as it’s quite broad? However some courses seem to surround mental health for example, or wellbeing, others in psychotherapy etc. I’m just finding it all so overwhelming at the moment. I don’t know if this is a bad attitude to have (I’m more just trying not to get my heart totally set on a specific career for my own sanity and take it a step at a time, as I am aware of how competitive the DClinPsy is) but I think if I am going to do a masters I may as well do one that I could still put to use if the doctorate doesn’t work out? I hope that makes sense. I’m looking for one that would still give me a bit of extra knowledge and preparation rather than jumping straight into a doctorate, but that wouldn’t go to waste if there was a change of plan, or would be useful in an alternative career in counselling perhaps, just as an example. I know some people have years and years of clinical experience, good degrees etc but still struggle to get into the doctorate, so I think having a plan B is just always sensible. Thanks so much

Hi,

I just read this, I was wondering how everything worked out for you. As I have a conditional offer for the same UCLan course starting in September this year. It would be nice to hear back from you 🙂

Hi,

I just read this, I was wondering how everything worked out for you. As I have a conditional offer for the same UCLan course starting in September this year. It would be nice to hear back from you 🙂

I always find it so spooky because I forget about my account and pop back on months later and see a new recent reply that I would’ve otherwise missed! I just posted an update now and have only seen your message. Congratulations on your offer!! I have also had an offer for UCLan for September 😁 I have chosen to go part time for financial reasons as I would like to have time to work more without it affecting my studies so much, so hoping it will feel a little more relaxed. I am currently having a bit of a panic about which course to choose as I have had a few offers, it’s such a lot to think about when you are still finishing up with uni too. I think the uclan course is the one that excites me most, but I’m currently wondering whether to do a Research Methods masters instead. It’s exciting but scary 😆 I’m so pleased for you getting on! Hope everything is going well with your last year