University of Sheffield

This three-year doctoral programme is organised by the University of Sheffield, in collaboration with local Psychology Services, and is currently commissioned by NHS England. The Programme is approved by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). On successful completion of the Programme, trainees are eligible to apply for registration with HCPC and chartered status with the BPS.

The orientation of the Programme is specifically to promote the unique contribution which psychology can make to the delivery of healthcare. Key elements of this contribution are supported through the development of personal and professional skills underpinned by compassion, respect, and valuing people. The Programme actively supports trainees to employ psychological theories and formulations to inform the content of their clinical work, with the aim of enabling service users to feel empowered and supported in improving their lives.

The design of the curriculum and academic programme reflects and responds to the demands of the clinical and service context in which clinical psychologists work. We have a commitment to providing a high quality training, which equips people to work with clients and services, in a way which embodies core NHS values of respect, dignity, quality, empowerment and compassion. We provide trainees with academic and clinical tutors who support their learning and development across the curriculum.

The Programme actively supports trainees in the integration of theory with practice and places great importance on conducting and utilising applied research to a high standard and with academic rigour.

The core purpose of the Programme is to train people to become high quality practitioner clinical psychologists who are able to meet and influence the future client and organisational needs of the National Health Service. This development and training is underpinned by innovative approaches to applied clinical and psychological services research. We encourage the study of a broad range of evidence-based approaches. All trainees are supported in the development of academic knowledge and clinical skills around the use of cognitive behavioural therapy, and at least one other model of therapy. Particular emphasis is placed upon developments concerned with organisational skills and service evaluation. This is based upon a commitment to understanding the elements which contribute to high quality services; which are effective for people who use those services; and which reflect the values of the NHS and the health and social care agenda of improving lives, and working together for patients. Sensitivity to and awareness of the needs of priority groups within health and social services is key in relation to this.

The Programme is committed to supporting the development of skills in team working and clinical leadership.

The Programme is based within the School of Psychology, which has outstanding facilities for research and teaching and an excellent research record; over 92% of our research is internationally excellent or world leading in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.

Please see our website for a list of current Clinical and Applied Psychology Unit staff and their research interests.

In addition, many clinical psychologists who act as supervisors and teachers on the Programme, and academic staff of the School of Psychology, University of Sheffield hold honorary appointments.