Program Overview

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Introduction to Clinical Mental Health Sciences MSc

The Clinical Mental Health Sciences MSc, offered by the UCL Division of Psychiatry, is a program focused on clinical practice in mental health and its evidence base. This program integrates biological, psychological, and social perspectives on mental health, catering to both psychology graduates and clinicians seeking a broad-based, rigorous, and flexible higher degree.

Program Overview

The program is designed for graduates in psychology and related subjects who wish to develop their clinically relevant knowledge and skills in mental health, as well as for mental health practitioners, including trainees, who aim to enhance their advanced knowledge and skills. It provides a comprehensive understanding of current evidence regarding mental health problems and interventions, along with enhanced research skills.

Entry Requirements

• An upper second-class Bachelor's degree in psychology or a related scientific or social science discipline.
• A professional health qualification (medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, psychology, social work) or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
• Candidates without at least six months' full-time work experience (or the equivalent) in a mental health service setting or in clinical mental health research are required to take the Clinical Mental Health double module.

English Language Requirements

The English language level for this course is Level 2. UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are available for international students to develop their academic English and skills required to succeed at the postgraduate level.

Equivalent Qualifications

Country-specific information and equivalent qualifications can be obtained from the International Students website. International applicants can find the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the provided list.

About the Degree

Students will develop an in-depth understanding of current evidence regarding mental health problems and the interventions provided to address them, as well as enhance their research skills. A wide range of options from across the School of Life and Medical Sciences at UCL allows students to tailor a program that fully fits their needs. All students undertake a final research project, reported as a paper of up to 7,000 words ready for submission to a specified journal, a blog of 1,000 words, and a 20-minute talk.

Who This Course Is For

The program is designed for:

• Graduates in psychology and other related subjects who wish to develop their clinically relevant knowledge and skills in the area of mental health.
• Mental health practitioners, including trainees, who wish to enhance their advanced knowledge and skills.

What This Course Will Give You

UCL has a cluster of international experts in mental health, including genetics, epidemiology, and applied clinical research, most of whom are also clinicians. The program offers a broad perspective encompassing both cutting-edge research and a clinical viewpoint. It is strongly focused on student participation, with extensive use of small-group learning, and the environment in the Division of Psychiatry is stimulating, friendly, and supportive.

Career Paths

The program can equip students with the skills to follow varied career paths, including as psychologists and research assistants. Many graduates go on to further study, and the program is an excellent grounding for clinical training, such as in clinical psychology, or for embarking on a research career in mental health.

Teaching and Learning

The program is delivered through lectures, seminars, and workshops, with considerable use of supporting online learning. Assessment methods include unseen examinations, coursework, designing questionnaires and protocols, analyzing data, giving talks, and presenting posters, and a final report in the format of a journal paper or brief for clinicians or service planners.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Core Principles of Mental Health Research
• Final Project (Research Project) For students without at least six months' full-time experience in mental health settings:
  • Clinical Mental Health

Optional Modules

• Clinical Mental Health
• Current Research in Dementia
• Current Research in Depression and Anxiety
• Current Research in Psychosis and Bipolar
• Neuroscience of Mental Health
• Mental Health Care: Evaluation and Policy
• Practical Statistics for Mental Health Research
• Current Research in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Culture and the Clinic
• Advanced Treatment and Management of Dementia
• Mental Health in a Social and Global Context
• Current Research in Psychological Trauma and PTSD
• Current Research in Children's and Young People's Mental Health

Study Modes

The program is available in full-time, part-time, and flexible (modular) study modes, allowing students to complete their MSc over a period of one to five years.

Fees and Funding

Fees for 2026/27

• UK students: Ł16,800 (full-time), Ł8,400 (part-time)
• International students: Ł42,700 (full-time), Ł21,350 (part-time)

Additional Costs

A fee deposit is charged for offer holders. The program team supports students in obtaining volunteer placements, but small costs may be associated with these placements, especially for travel.

Funding Your Studies

The Division of Psychiatry offers bursaries and small scholarships to students who show great promise as mental health researchers. Comprehensive funding opportunities are available at UCL, including funding relevant to nationality.

Conclusion

The Clinical Mental Health Sciences MSc at UCL offers a comprehensive and flexible program for those seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in mental health. With its strong research focus, clinical perspective, and wide range of optional modules, it provides a solid foundation for careers in psychology, research, and clinical practice.