Clinical Psychology - Doctorate Programme

Brief Description

The Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Limerick is a three-year, full-time programme designed to educate graduate psychologists to become competent practitioners within the Irish health services. The programme integrates academic knowledge, clinical practice, and research, preparing students for a career in diverse healthcare settings.

Programme Content

• Complete full-time over three years.
• Blended delivery - combines on–campus learning with extensive clinical practice, applied research, and professional development activities.
• Modules are taught during the autumn and spring semesters, allowing students to integrate their learning through clinical placements.
• Includes supervised professional practice, ensuring students develop both theoretical knowledge and real-world expertise.
• Benefit from dedicated support for Personal and Professional Development, along with advanced training in clinical research, culminating in a doctoral research thesis at the end of Year 3.
• Graduate with a Level 10 Doctorate qualification in Clinical Psychology.

Year 1

Autumn Semester

• Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology: Explore psychological assessment and therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents.
• Research Methods: Develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in clinical psychology.

Spring Semester

• Adult Clinical Psychology: Teach diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for working with adults in clinical settings.
• Lifespan Disability Theory: Examine psychological approaches to working with individuals with disabilities across the lifespan.

Year 2

Autumn Semester

• Working with Older Adults: Focus on mental health challenges and psychological interventions for older populations.
• Clinical Neuropsychology: Develop expertise in the assessment and rehabilitation of individuals with neurological conditions.

Spring Semester

• Personal Development 1: Enhance reflective practice, supervision, and professional ethics training.
• Qualitative and Quantitative Research Projects: Support students in conducting independent research that contributes to clinical psychology knowledge.

Year 3

Autumn Semester

• Specialist/Elective Placement: Gain experience in a specialised area of clinical psychology in a healthcare setting.
• Doctoral Research Dissertation: Undertake an advanced research project aligned with professional practice.

Spring Semester

• Advanced Clinical Practice: Apply clinical skills in complex case management and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Leadership in Clinical Settings: Develop leadership and supervision skills for clinical practice and service development.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in Psychology or a postgraduate diploma in Psychology, recognised by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) as conferring eligibility for graduate membership.
• Applicants with a 2:2 bachelor's degree in Psychology will be considered if they have been awarded a recognised postgraduate qualification in Psychology at Master's level (NFQ Level 9) or higher.
• If the primary degree in psychology is from outside Ireland or the UK, applicants must supply proof of recognition of their degree by the PSI at the time of application.
• Applicants must be eligible to work in the EU by the closing date for applications and show official evidence to support this.
• Typically, applicants should have a minimum of one year practical or research work experience relevant to clinical psychology.
• Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on competencies including academic ability, research competencies, clinically related competencies and experience, and personal and professional development.

Fees

• EU: €14,630 per annum
• Year 2 and Year 3 fees are subject to change.
• Annual fees are billed by semester.

Funding

Students are sponsored by the Health Service Executive (HSE), receiving a salary and fee contribution. Successful graduates are contracted to the HSE for a fixed post-qualification period.

Graduate Profile

The Clinical Psychology Doctorate programme can lead graduates to the following sectors and careers:

• Clinical psychology – working in hospitals, mental health services, and therapy settings.
• Community mental health services – supporting vulnerable populations through targeted interventions.
• Social care and rehabilitation – assisting individuals with psychological and social challenges.
• Research and academia – conducting studies that contribute to psychology and mental health policy.
• Policy development – shaping mental health policies and advocating for community-based support.

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Careers:

Clinical psychologists provide a variety of services including assessment, therapy, and consultancy where emotional, behavioural, psychiatric or developmental difficulties are addressed. Career opportunities exist for professionally qualified clinical psychologists in a variety of health, prison services and social care settings. Opportunities may also be found in educational services and institutions.

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Other:

The Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programme is a full-time, three-year postgraduate professional course in clinical psychology, designed to train psychologists to be eligible for appointment as Clinical Psychologists in the health services. The programme is delivered in partnership between the University and Health Services Executive (HSE) and other organisations. Each student is offered a specified purpose contract of employment for 3 years as a Trainee Clinical Psychologist with the HSE or other organisations. Most placements will take place in the Limerick/Clare/Tipperary Area. However, they may be located anywhere in Ireland. Trainees must be available to travel to placements beyond County Limerick. Acceptance of a place on the programme will require a commitment to travel to various placement locations. As well as completing placements and study in Adult Mental Health, Intellectual Disability and Autism, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, and Elective areas, trainees also receive support for Personal and Professional Development, and an advanced training in clinical research leading to a research thesis at the end of year 3.

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EU : €14,630 per annum Non EU: €37,600 per annum

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: