Applying For A Doctorate in Clinical or Counselling Psychology In the UK: A Singaporean Perspective
Applying to a Doctorate in Clinical or Counselling Psychology in the UK as a Singaporean can feel like navigating a maze of requirements, applications, and decisions. Whether you're considering the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) or Doctorate in Counselling Psychology (DCounsPsy), this blog post will guide you through some essential information from a Singaporean perspective, highlighting key differences, application tips, funding options, and the overall experience of studying abroad.
For many aspiring psychologists, the UK offers a broad range of accredited programs recognised globally, but with the added challenge of higher costs and specific entry requirements. We'll cover the pathways available, discuss some application tips, and explore what it’s like to transition into the UK as an international student. Drawing insights from the personal journeys of 3 Singaporean trainees, this post aims to equip you with the information you need to make an informed decision and maximise your chances of success.
DISCLAIMER: This information is from a Singaporean perspective. If you are from any other country, please do your own due diligence to check if the information shared is relevant for you and whether your home country recognises the UK qualifications should you wish to return to your home country post-qualification.
About the Singaporean Trainees
1. Michelle See Toh
SIM-UB, BA Psychology
University of Edinburgh, MSc Psychology of Mental Health (Conversion)
Research Assistant at NUS
Psychiatric Rehab Counsellor/Case Manager at Singapore Anglican Community Services
Defence Psychologist at MINDEF
Applied 2 times
2. Nicole Ooi
UK A-Levels
UCL MSci (BSc + MSc) Psychology and Language Sciences
Community MH Programme Manager at Agency for Integrated Care
Educational Behavioural Therapist (Private)
Senior Client Solutions and Consulting Specialist at Intellect (Startup)
Applied 2 times
3. Saiyuri Naidu
IB, UWCSEA
University of Bath, BSc Psychology with Placement (4 years), Trainee Assistant
Psychology (Woodfield Trauma Service)
Royal Holloway, MSc Clinical Psychology (1 year), part-time Assistant Psychologist (The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic)
Senior Assistant Psychologist (The RESET Health Group)
Applied 1 time
Doctorate Overviews
The Application Process
Entry requirements are university-specific. Both DClinPsy and DCounsPsy require Graduate Basis for Chartered membership (GBC).
DISCLAIMER: Schools offering international places/requirements may change yearly. Check clearing house or individual university websites to confirm.
DClinPsy
Clearing House website is used for applications to:
University College London (UCL)
University of East Anglia (UEA)
University of Exeter
University of Manchester
Apply directly through the university website for:
Kings College London (KCL)
University of Birmingham
DCounsPsy*
Apply directly through the university website for:
University of Roehampton
City, University of London
University of Manchester
University of Bristol
Metanoia Institute
University of Wolverhampton
*Most courses require a basic counselling certificate.
Application Tips
Michelle: Be reflective. Everyone will have varying clinical, research and leadership experiences. The way you reflect on your experiences will help you stand out from other applicants.
Nicole: Tell a cohesive story! You can have a variety of (possibly non-psychology) experiences as long as you can link how they come together - preferably linked to your wider aspirations for psychology.
Saiyuri: Apply critical thinking skills - analyse your experiences, evaluate how the program aligns with your goals & interests, structure your application so it flows, reflect on why you are an ideal candidate and your motivation for applying. Tailor your application for each program if you are applying via the individual website.
Funding
Possible scholarships:
1. NCSS
NCSS only funds up to 2 years out of 3
4 years bond after
2. TKK
$12,000 one-off for studying in the university
No bond
Scholarships are given out once a year, and successful applicants may re-apply yearly
3. Individual/specific circumstances
Workplace sponsorships
University-specific scholarships
Country-specific scholarships (not SG)
4. Others
Healthcare Graduate Studies Award - uncertain if still offering
Doctorate-level scholarship - to enquire directly
Pathways - UK or SG?
Degree Level
SG courses - Masters level
UK courses - Doctorate level
Accreditation/Recognition
Ability to work globally
Diversity of clinical experiences
Focus on research at Doctorate level
Optional additional accreditations
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
Systemic Therapy
Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (AFT)
Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT)
Optional additional pathways
Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology (QICN)
Clinical Academic
Job Prospects
There is demand for psychologists in both Singapore and UK.
No NHS bond following completion of DClinPsy/DCounsPsy
3-year graduate visa available after DClinPsy/DCounsPsy
2-year graduate visa available for undergrad & masters level psychology qualification
The International Student Experience
Things to consider:
Adjusting to a new country
Moving/flat hunting
NHS vs Singapore healthcare system
UK culture
Weather
Wide student age range (differences in experience)
The number of international students in your course can significantly impact your experience.
Resources
General
Saiyuri’s website : https://internationalpsychuk.my.canva.site/
DClinPsy
Clearing House: https://www.clearing-house.org.uk/
FB community of aspiring clinical psychologists: https://www.facebook.com/groups/intaspiringpsychologist
UK Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) International Community: https://www.dclinpsy-international.co.uk/
SNAPbam: Support Network for Aspiring Clinical Psychologists of Black, Asian and Mixed Heritage - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12423672/
YouTube Channels