University

Doctor of Clinical Psychology – DClinPsych

This course is available

Online, On-Campus

Level of Study

Doctoral Degree

Summary

Note: Some health organisations, including Te Whatau Ora, community mental health, and community health care practices require vaccination as a condition of working in their organisation.

The Doctor of Clinical Psychology is a professional qualification that prepares you to integrate practice and research in your career as a clinical psychologist.

Places are highly sought-after and there is a competitive entry process.

Clinical psychology is an applied branch of psychology. It uses psychological techniques to help people solve a wide variety of mental, physical, behavioural and relationship problems.

What does the qualification cover?

The Doctor of Clinical Psychology is a full-time qualification. You’ll take courses, do practical placements, complete an internship of supervised full-time practical work for at least 1 academic year and a doctoral dissertation (thesis).

Develop practical skills

You’ll get practical skills through practica placements. There are typically 3 placements in a variety of health service agencies, such as:

child and family
community mental health
drug and alcohol
rehabilitation
secondary care
forensic
Massey Student Health and Counselling
Psychological Service/Department of Corrections
Massey psychology clinics.

Get a diverse perspective

Massey is committed to the principles embodied in the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi. You’ll be well trained from a variety of perspectives and be sensitive to the needs of people from diverse backgrounds and across their lifespan.

Our staff have a range of experience and interests. They approach clinical work from a variety of empirical and theoretical frameworks.

The scientist-practitioner model

Clinical training at Massey is based on the scientist-practitioner model. This emphasises the need for clinical psychologists to have a strong research background, as well as clinical skills. You’ll formulate an approach to understanding human behaviour that has a strong theoretical base.

Internationally recognised and market-leading in New Zealand

Massey graduates more researchers and clinical psychologists than any other university in New Zealand.

We’re connected to a wide range of community and statutory organisations. Our unique and applied psychology research and training is recognised nationally and internationally. This expertise enhances the reputation of your degree and ensures your knowledge is relevant to today’s society.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

This is a selected entry qualification. This means there are a number of extra requirements you must meet.

To enter the Doctor of Clinical Psychology you will:

have been awarded or qualified for a bachelor with honours or master’s in psychology with the award of first class or second class division I honours, or equivalent
have passed the following courses (or their equivalent) in your qualifying degree:
- 175738 Psychological Research: Principles of Design
- 175781 Understanding Mental Distress
- 175782 Clinical Psychology Assessment
- 175783 Clinical Psychology Interventions
have sufficient personal qualities, ethical standards and professional potential to satisfy the Doctoral Research Committee you have the capacity to successfully undertake the qualification, and to satisfy the requirements for eligibility to practice as a Registered Psychologist in accordance with the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act of 2003 (or as amended)
supply all documentation as listed below
be offered a place following a selection interview.

Limited places

This qualification has a limited number of places available. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the qualification.

Application closing date and interviews

Applications close 1 September for study the following year. No late applications will be accepted.

Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed before a final selection is made.

Clinical qualification selection interview dates

Interviews are usually held mid-November, for study commencing the following year. We will update this page closer to the time.

No late applications

You must ensure that all documentation is supplied well in advance of the closing date. If you are applying close to the deadline you will need to ensure your referees are advised, as their report must be received by the closing date.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey's English language competency requirements.

Academic IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0; or a minimum TOEFL iBT of 90 overall (minimum of 20 in writing). These tests are valid for 2 years.

Documents you need to supply

You will need to provide the following documents:

Verified copies of all academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University
A current curriculum vitae or résumé detailing your relevant training and experience
A passport-sized photograph
Brief personal statement (up to 500 words) which includes your reasons for seeking a career in clinical psychology. You may also wish to list perceived strengths as well as skills you will bring to your studies and training as a clinical psychologist
Supporting statements from whānau/family (optional)
Name, occupation and email details of 2 referees. Referees will be automatically contacted to supply a confidential reference in relation to this qualification. Referees are invited to comment, where they are able, on academic performance, ability to successfully complete further study, motivation and suitability for clinical psychology training, quality of interactions with people including with those from culturally diverse backgrounds, adherence to professional ethical standards, and knowledge and practice regarding working with Māori.

Maximum time limits for completion

There are maximum time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.

Official regulations

Review this important information before you apply for this programme. This gives you full details of the rules and regulations about what you need to study and what you must achieve in order to graduate with this qualification. That includes structure, courses and requirements.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, ...

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