Psychology, Clinical and Mental Health Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour, and clinical and mental health psychology focuses specifically on understanding and addressing the psychological difficulties that affect people's mental health and wellbeing. It is a discipline that combines rigorous empirical research with compassionate applied practice, and it sits at the intersection of medicine, social science and the humanities. The demand for psychologists and mental health professionals is significant and sustained, reflecting growing recognition of mental health as a core component of individual and public wellbeing.

At Royal Holloway, University of London you will study the breadth of psychology, from cognitive and developmental psychology to social, biological and abnormal psychology, while developing particular depth in clinical and mental health perspectives. You will examine how psychological disorders are understood, classified and treated, engaging with the major therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioural therapy, psychodynamic perspectives and third-wave therapies. The programme runs full time over three years and includes a sandwich year, a year abroad and work-placement experience, giving you the opportunity to apply psychological knowledge in professional settings and to develop the international and practical experience that strengthens both your understanding and your employability.

You will develop skills in research design and statistical analysis, critical evaluation of evidence, clinical reasoning and professional communication. The British Psychological Society accreditation of the programme provides the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, which is the foundation for further training towards professional registration as a psychologist.

Graduates pursue postgraduate training as clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists, educational psychologists and psychotherapists. Others move into roles in mental health services, research, human resources, occupational health, social work and the voluntary sector. The analytical and interpersonal skills developed are also valued in management, health policy and related fields.