University of Hull

What you'll study

This professional doctorate combines taught modules, supervised clinical placements and an independent research thesis. Teaching covers core clinical competencies such as psychological assessment and formulation, evidence‑based interventions across age ranges and presentations, psychopathology, lifespan development and neuropsychology. Modules emphasise therapy approaches commonly used in NHS services (for example cognitive‑behavioural, systemic, and formulation‑based approaches), risk assessment, multidisciplinary working, ethics and professional practice.

Clinical training is delivered through multiple supervised placements in health and social care settings, providing experience with adult mental health, older adults, child and adolescent services, learning disabilities and specialist services depending on placement availability. The programme includes advanced research training in quantitative and qualitative methods and requires completion of a substantial doctoral research project that contributes to clinically relevant knowledge and is suitable for publication.

Typical structure

• Intensive taught blocks and seminars covering clinical knowledge, research methods and professional skills.
• Progressive clinical placements under supervision, with increasing responsibility for assessment, formulation and intervention.
• Ongoing clinical supervision, reflective practice groups and professional development planning.
• Doctoral thesis based on original research conducted during the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree in psychology (or international equivalent) conferring eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the British Psychological Society (or be eligible on completion of a conversion). Most successful applicants also have relevant clinical experience in health, social care or third‑sector settings; this is typically paid experience but substantial voluntary work may also be acceptable. Employers' references or academic references are required.

Selection includes shortlisting on academic and experiential criteria and interview, which may involve practical or written tasks assessing clinical reasoning, communication and ethical judgement. Some candidates hold a postgraduate qualification in psychology or related subjects, but this is not a universal requirement. Applicants should check professional registration and residency criteria that may affect eligibility for funded training posts.

Career prospects

Graduates of an accredited clinical psychology doctorate typically register with the Health and Care Professions Council and work as Clinical Psychologists in the NHS, social care, private practice, criminal justice and third‑sector organisations. Typical roles include practitioner clinical psychologist in adult, child, forensic, neuropsychology or learning disability services, senior/consultant clinical psychologist, clinical lead or service manager, researcher, and academic posts in universities. The training also equips graduates to contribute to service development, supervision and multidisciplinary leadership, and to conduct clinically informed research.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers clinical psychology training that integrates academic rigour with extensive practice learning through close links with local and regional health services. Students benefit from experienced clinical and academic staff, structured supervision and a supportive cohort environment. The programme places emphasis on reflective practice, service‑user involvement and research that informs clinical services, providing a breadth of placement opportunities and pathways to applied and academic careers. The university's facilities and collaborative relationships with partner services aim to give trainees a varied and practice‑relevant training experience.