clinical psychology phd scotland

• Schools & departments

PhD by Distance

The PhD by Distance programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh to study for a PhD in a field of Health in Social Science from their home country or city.

What's involved?

The PhD by Distance is not intended to be an online learning programme.

Students enrolled on this programme will be expected to come to Edinburgh at least once per year of study to meet with their supervisors.

The length and timing of these visits are negotiable but students should expect to spend at least two weeks at the University of Edinburgh during each year of study.

This could be for the annual review process, or to attend research training courses. It is also expected that PhD by Distance students will come to Edinburgh for their oral examination (viva voce).

PhD by Distance students will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students. The frequency with which students will meet with their supervisors, and method of communication for supervision sessions, will be provisionally agreed at the point of application and confirmed during induction. This must include at least one face-to-face supervision session each year with additional meetings and communication on a regular basis.  

Please be aware that some funding bodies do not permit students to study by distance, for example both ESRC and AHRC regulations currently state that students must be residents at the Institution where they are studying.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for the PhD by Distance are the same as for the School’s on-campus PhD programmes.  

In addition, applicants to the PhD by Distance will also be required to complete a PhD by Distance Applicant Admission Form and Study Plan.

Applicants should provide information about previous experience of distance study together with a statement detailing the potential risks and characteristics of distance learning.

Experience of studying at a distance is desirable in applying for the programme however this is not a specific requirement for admission.

It is important however that applicants demonstrate an awareness of the challenges of this mode of study.

Applicants must also provide details of the access they will have to research facilities at the normal site of study and whether a local advisor is proposed.

Applications to the PhD by Distance will only be accepted if applicants have access to local University standard library facilities and to the internet.

Applicants will also be required to have a discussion with the proposed principal supervisor and to complete a provisional study plan in consultation with them as part of the admissions process.

International students wishing to study part-time will be considered for this Distance programme.

What programmes are available by distance?

Counselling, psychotherapy and applied social sciences.

PhD/PhD by Distance Counselling Studies

The PhD/MPhil in Counselling Studies programme is an advanced research degree enabling students to conduct in-depth independent research on a topic of their choice, thereby contributing to the knowledge and evidence base for counselling and psychotherapy.

PhD/PhD by Distance Health in Social Science

Doctoral research students are a new and crucial part of the Counselling, Psychotherapy and Applied Social Sciences research community and we welcome applications from potential students in our fields of research interest.

Clinical and Health Psychology

Phd/phd by distance.

The PhD/MSc by Research programme provides the opportunity to do a substantial piece of research in an area linked to clinical and health psychology and to develop excellent research skills in the process.

PhD/PhD by Distance/MSc by Research

Nursing Studies

Phd/phd by distance nursing studies.

The PhD/MPhil Nursing Studies programme is an advanced postgraduate research degree for students wishing to conduct in-depth independent research on an area to contribute to nursing knowledge and evidence. It offers the student a chance to make a significant contribution to knowledge in nursing.

PhD/PhD by Distance/MPhil Nursing Studies

MSc Clinical Health Psychology

• Start date:  September
• Study mode and duration:  12 months full-time 24 months part-time

Scholarships: EU Engagement Scholarships worth £10,000 available to applicants from EU countries

Study with us

• prepare for an application to an applied psychology training programme* (for example Doctorate in Clinical or Counselling Psychology, PhD in an applied area, Clinical Associate in Applied Psychology training, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist training)
• applications may be subject to prior achievement of Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the British Psychological Society. Please check the relevant application requirements
• uniquely combines clinical, health and neuropsychology teaching with professional practice and research methods training
• offers a series of practitioner-led workshops covering key psychological interventions
• links with external partners who provide volunteering opportunities (subject to availability)

*May require Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the British Psychological Society.

Why this course?

The course has been developed to offer theory, knowledge and practical skills development across the areas of clinical, health and neuropsychology. In addition, you'll receive training in professional practice and research methods.

The knowledge and skills you'll develop will help prepare you for a PhD in a clinical or health-related area, or a career as a Practitioner Psychologist.

You can study full-time over one year or part-time over two years.

Note:  This course does not confer eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society. This course does not provide the stage 1 qualification in Health Psychology that is a pre-requisite for stage 2/doctorate training in Health Psychology. Find further information from the  British Psychological Society website .

Interested in postgraduate study?

At the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, our friendly and knowledgeable team will be available to provide you with all the information you need to kick-start your postgraduate journey at the University of Strathclyde. Register for upcoming events below:

• Monthly drop-in sessions

What you’ll study

• Applied Psychology Topics

Three modules covering key theoretical and applied issues relevant to the clinical, health and neuropsychology disciplines.

Professional Practice

This class provides an evidenced-based introduction to core professional issues and ethical standards specified by key professional guidelines from the British Psychological Society, The Health Care and Professions Council, Scottish Government, NHS, SIGN and NICE.

Research Methods in Clinical Health Psychology

This class introduces the key epidemiological concepts and study designs as well as qualitative research methods, mixed methods, and evidence synthesis.

Introduction to Psychological Therapies

This class provides you with an introduction to evidence based therapeutic modalities offered in contemporary applied psychology, providing the opportunity to develop and practice clinical skills through role-play with supervised feedback from practitioner psychologists.

Dissertation

You'll undertake a supervised research dissertation on a topic related to the course themes of clinical, health or neuropsychology. Your dissertation can take the form of a primary research study, a secondary data analysis or a formal systematic review/meta-analysis.

Our purpose-built experimental labs and facilities include:

• Driving Simulator Lab
• Perception & Action Lab
• Psychophysiology Lab
• Psycholinguistics Lab
• Strathclyde Oculomotor Lab

How to become a psychologist

Find out all you need to know including what a psychologist does, the different types of psychologist and the steps you need to take to become one.

Course content

Clinical Psychology

This class will provide you with a rigorous theoretical and evidenced-based introduction to the field of mental health and chronic disease. We will explore the psychological impact of living with a chronic illness, with a particular focus on the most commonly reported mental health complaints. Students will learn about the clinical characteristics of a range of psychological disorders, the evidence base for their etiology and the factors that modulate their chronicity.

Health Psychology

This class will use health psychology theory to examine the relationship between behaviour, health and illness.  We will cover key health behaviours such as screening and adherence and students will learn how to identify the behaviour change content of complex interventions. The class will also examine the role of health psychology in health conditions of significant public health importance, e.g. sleep disorders, cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Neuropsychology

This class offers knowledge and training in neuropsychology. It will focus on identifying impairment using neuropsychological assessment and on the diagnosis of neurological disorders. You will gain knowledge and skills relating to neuropsychological assessment across a range of medical conditions. Students will learn about neuropathology, neuroanatomical and functional variation, cognitive and behavioural symptoms of a variety of medical conditions and advanced neuroimaging techniques, which help further our understanding of neurological / psychiatric disorders.

• Professional Competencies

This class will provide you with an evidenced-based introduction to core professional issues and ethical standards specified by key professional guidelines from the British Psychological Society, The Health Care and Professions Council, Scottish Government, NHS, SIGN and NICE. The development of self-reflection as a core skill of a practitioner psychologist will be encouraged throughout. Working as an Applied Psychologist means that professional behaviour and ethical practice is of the utmost importance. Registered practitioner psychologists are required by law to follow a code of ethics and display professional behaviour at all times. In addition, much litigation occurs as a result of poor communication or exceeding professional competence so teaching students about this early on in their professional careers is important. This class thus provides an understanding of core professional skills which are the linchpin of working as an applied psychologist.

The class will provide you with an introduction to evidence based therapeutic modalities offered in contemporary applied psychology, providing the opportunity to develop and practice clinical skills through role-play with supervised feedback from practitioner psychologists. This type of interactive learning is unique for a non-clinical programme. A series of workshops will introduce you to evidence based therapeutic modalities employed by practitioner psychologists in clinical practice. The development of self-reflection as a core competency and skill of a practitioner psychologist will be encouraged throughout. You will be able to reflect on your experiences of engaging in the practitioner-led, experiential workshops to begin to develop your reflective thinking and writing skills.

• Research Skills

This class serves as an introduction to research methods in Clinical Health Psychology. It will introduce the key epidemiological concepts and study designs as well as qualitative research methods, mixed methods, and evidence synthesis. This will take place in the context of evaluation which is a key aspect of applied psychological research, and enables a rounded appreciation of the types of data collection and analysis undertaken within the field of clinical health psychology.

The dissertation is designed to enable you to apply your knowledge and skills to the development and implementation of a research project. The class will offer a portfolio of dissertation formats and you will undertake an academic research project in one of the three core topic areas (i.e. clinical, health or neuropsychology). The dissertation can involve any method, relevant to the aims of the project, which is suitable for publication in an appropriate journal.

What our students think

Vedika Sukhatme

Strathclyde gave me the opportunity to explore different aspects within psychology including health, clinical and neuropsychology. This was important for me as I didn't want to have tunnel vision and was keen to keep my options open.

Dhanshri Shinde

The teaching staff have always been very supportive which is why I would encourage upcoming students to get in touch with the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences if they have any issues or questions at all. Other than that the student union is there for any additional support.

Declan McTague

I loved my time studying Clinical Health Psychology at Strathclyde. I was already interested in neuropsychology, which is why I chose the course, and I was able to complete my dissertation in dementia research. Not only did I develop my research skills, but I got to do so whilst analysing MRI images of brains, which was very exciting!

Niharika Mehta

The course at Strathclyde offered not only clinical psychology but also health and neuropsychology. As well as the applied modules, it also included research methodologies and a dissertation. This balance of research and applied psychology is what impressed me.

Samantha Smith

This degree has given me skills in professional practice that I have not been able to develop before and has expanded my knowledge greatly on research methods. It has also given me the courage to pursue my passion while testing me in every way as an intellectual and a human being. My advice for prospective students would be to join the Strathclyde family as soon as possible!

Chat to a student ambassador

If you want to know more about what it’s like to be a Humanities & Social Sciences student at the University of Strathclyde, a selection of our current students are here to help!

Our Unibuddy ambassadors can answer all the questions you might have about courses and studying at Strathclyde, along with offering insight into their experiences of life in Glasgow and Scotland.

Entry requirements

Pre-Masters preparation course

The  Pre-Masters Programme  is a preparation course held at the  University of Strathclyde International Study Centre , for international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde.

Upon successful completion, you'll be able to progress to this degree course at the University of Strathclyde.

Please note: Previous Maths & English qualifications and your undergraduate degree must meet GTCS minimum entry requirements as well as the pre-Masters course and an interview will be conducted before an offer can be made.

Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Scholarships

• EU Engagement Scholarships  are available to EU applicants who would have previously been eligible for Home (Scottish/EU) fee status.
• EU and International 50% Merit Scholarships available to self-funded, international fee-paying offer-holders (includes those classed as EU fee group). The scholarship entitles the recipient to a discount of 50% on tuition fees.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city

Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Funded PhD opportunities

• Many projects with the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in Socially Intelligent Artificial Agents

We are engaged in a wide range of research in experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, language, perception, statistics and research methods in psychology, social robotics, and health cognition. We have a strong presence in the field of neuroimaging and brain stimulation. Our work has links with fundamental and clinical neuroscience.

At any time we comprise about 35 academics, 2 Fellows (Marie Curie and Adam Smith), 20 research associates/assistants and large postgraduate community (60 students, including PhD-, Masters- and visiting students). Our staff have many ongoing, funded research projects and receive major research funding from the Wellcome trust, BBSRC and ESRC.

Using diverse approaches and paradigms, our research aims to advance our understanding of behaviour and the underlying mental processes and brain function at multiple levels of analysis.

Researchers are grouped across the School of Psychology, the Centre for Social, Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience (cSCAN), and the Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging (CCNi), which provides state-of-the-art functional neuroimaging facilities. Many investigators have double affiliations with links to the School of Psychology and Neuroscience, which span two colleges (Science & Engineering, and Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences), and integrates research from molecular to system neuroscience across a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary and translational programmes.

More information

• Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging (CCNi)
• Centre for Social, Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience (cSCAN)
• School of Psychology and Neuroscience

Study options

• Psychology, PhD:  3 years full-time or 5 years part-time
• Psychology, MSc (Res):  1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Entry requirements

2.1 Honours degree or equivalent

Required documentation

Applicants should submit:

• Transcripts/degree certificate 
• Two references
• A one-page research proposal
• Name of potential Supervisor

Research proposal

Candidates are required to provide a single page outline of the research subject proposed (approximately 1000 words). This need not be a final thesis proposal but should include:

• a straightforward, descriptive, and informative title
• the question that your research will address
• an account of why this question is important and worth investigating
• an assessment of how your own research will engage with recent study in the subject
• a brief account of the methodology and approach you will take
• a discussion of the primary sources that your research will draw upon, including printed books, manuscripts, archives, libraries, or museums
• an indicative bibliography of secondary sources that you have already consulted and/or are planning to consult

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training)

• 6.5 with no subtests under 6.0
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test
• IELTS One Skill Retake accepted.

Common equivalent English language qualifications accepted for entry to this programme:

Toefl (ibt, my best or athome).

• 79; with Reading 13; Listening 12; Speaking 18;Writing 21
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements , this includes TOEFL mybest.

Pearsons PTE Academic

• 59 with minimum 59 in all subtests
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE) and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)

• 176 overall, no subtest less than 169

Oxford English Test

• Oxford ELLT 7
• R&L: OIDI level no less than 6 with Reading: 21-24 Listening: 15-17
• W&S: OIDI level no less than 6

Trinity College Tests

Integrated Skills in English II & III & IV: ISEII Distinction with Distinction in all sub-tests.

University of Glasgow Pre-sessional courses

Tests are accepted for 2 years following date of successful completion.

Alternatives to English Language qualification

• students must have studied for a minimum of 2 years at Undergraduate level, or 9 months at Master's level, and must have complete their degree in that majority-English speaking country  and  within the last 6 years
• students must have completed their final two years study in that majority-English speaking country  and  within the last 6 years

For international students, the Home Office has confirmed that the University can choose to use these tests to make its own assessment of English language ability for visa applications to degree level programmes. The University is also able to accept UKVI approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) but we do not require a specific UKVI SELT for degree level programmes. We therefore still accept any of the English tests listed for admission to this programme.

Pre-sessional courses

The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the English for Academic Study Unit Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• School of Modern Languages and Cultures: English for Academic Study
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses

Fees and funding

• UK: £4,786
• International & EU: £30,240

Prices are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Fees for part-time study are half the full-time fee.

Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and Internationals with Indefinite Leave to remain status can also qualify for home fee status.

• Fee status and policies

Alumni discount

We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed Junior Year Abroad, Exchange programme or International Summer School with us. The discount is applied at registration for students who are not in receipt of another discount or scholarship funded by the University. No additional application is required.

Possible additional fees

• Re-submission by a research student £540
• Submission for a higher degree by published work £1,355
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed £350
• Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship £790

Depending on the nature of the research project, some students will be expected to pay a bench fee (also known as research support costs) to cover additional costs. The exact amount will be provided in the offer letter.

The iPhD  is not supported by University of Glasgow Scholarship/Funding

• View a full list of our  current scholarships

GRADUATE SCHOOL  

The College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences  Graduate School  provides a vibrant, supportive and stimulating environment for all our postgraduate students.       Our aim is to provide a research training environment that includes:  

• provision of excellent facilities and cutting edge techniques  
• training in essential research and generic skills  
• excellence in supervision and mentoring  
• interactive discussion groups and seminars  
• an atmosphere that fosters critical cultural policy and research analysis  
• synergy between research groups and areas  
• extensive multidisciplinary and collaborative research  
• extensive external collaborations both within and beyond the UK   
• a robust generic skills programme including opportunities in social and commercial training  

Our excellent facilities and dedicated staff will equip you with training complementary to a range of career options, and you can tailor your study pathway to the precise aspects that suit your objectives.   

How to apply

Identify potential supervisors.

All Postgraduate Research Students are allocated a supervisor who will act as the main source of academic support and research mentoring. You may want to identify a potential supervisor and contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply. Please note, even if you have spoken to an academic staff member about your proposal you still need to submit an online application form.

You can find relevant academic staff members with our staff research interests search .

Gather your documents

Before applying please make sure you gather the following supporting documentation:

• Final or current degree transcripts including grades (and an official translation, if needed) – scanned copy in colour of the original document.
• Degree certificates (and an official translation, if needed): scanned copy in colour of the original document
• Two references on headed paper and signed by the referee. One must be academic, the other can be academic or professional [except iPhD applicants, where only one academic or professional reference is required]. References may be uploaded   as part of the application form or you may enter your referees contact details on the application form. We will then email your referee and notify you when we receive the reference.  We can also accept confidential references direct to  [email protected] , from the referee’s university or business email account.
• Research proposal, CV, samples of written work as per requirements for each subject area. iPhD applicants do not need to submit any of these as you will start your programme by choosing a masters.
• Completed  College of MVLS Postgraduate Research Cover Letter
• If you have any questions about your application  before  you apply: email  [email protected]  
• If you have any questions  after  you have submitted your application:  contact our Admissions team
• Any  references  may be submitted by email to:  [email protected]

International Students

• Advice on visa, immigrations and the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) can be found at Applying for a student visa outside the UK

Our research environment

• Discover how we support and develop postgraduate researchers

• Find out how postgraduate researchers are welcomed into the UofG community

Postgraduate researcher blogs

• A community blog, written by and for postgraduate researchers at the University of Glasgow

Related links

• College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences

We have 34 Psychology PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Scotland

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Psychology PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Scotland

University of Dundee

The University of Dundee brings together some of the best researchers in the world, developing ideas that positively impact the physical, social and psychological wellbeing of people and their communities, the economy, and the environment.

University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh. Extraordinary futures await.

University of Strathclyde

PhD & postgraduate research degrees at the University of Strathclyde

Multimorbidity PhD Programme for Health Professionals Fellow

Funded phd programme (uk students only).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Clinical PhD Programme

A Clinical PhD Programme is usually intended for qualified practising clinicians looking to carry out additional research or receive advanced training. Applicants often receive a full clinical salary during their studies.

The self-perception of adults with orofacial clefting

Phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Self-Funded PhD Students Only

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Psychological causes and factors relevant to the development, maintenance and improvement of formal thought disorder in psychosis (Project ID SHSC0057)

Co-designing socially assistive robots for people with dementia (project id shsc0052), mres: environmental attitudes and behaviours of brazilian mountain bikers (sas0203), understanding and addressing loneliness in people living with long-term health conditions, normative modelling of resting-state eeg across the lifespan for application in the early diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders including alzheimer’s disease, language development in early childhood: precursors of the transition to literacy, language development in early childhood: exploring the quality of interactions with adults and peers, dialects, registers, and accents: investigating the use of sociolinguistic variants, evaluating current young onset dementia services in scotland – a case study approach  (vc24046), funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Supporting the successful inclusion of students with ADHD in higher education: Innovation through collaboration (VC24016)

Rethinking the concept of life. a dialogue with non-western perspectives, mres sport, exercise and health science (project id sas0202), mres - investigating the biomechanical factors influencing the efficiency and injury risk of female and male fast bowlers in scotland (project id sas0201).

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Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology in Scotland - 13 Courses

University of aberdeen school of psychology.

• Health Psychology MSc
• Psychological Studies MSc

The University of Edinburgh School of Health in Social Science

• Clinical Psychology DClinPsy
• Clinical and Health Psychology Doctor of Philosophy - PhD MSc (Res)

The University of Edinburgh School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences

• Developmental Science MSc
• Human Cognitive Neuropsychology MSc
• Social Psychology MSc

University of Glasgow School of Health & Wellbeing

University of Strathclyde Psychological Sciences and Health

• Clinical Health Psychology MSc

University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Applied Life Studies

• Psychology Conversion MSc

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Postgraduate

Read about our Masters and PhD programmes

Why psychology at Edinburgh?

We're ranked 6th in the UK and 24th in the world for psychology (QS World University Rankings by subject 2024).

Psychology is rated 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).

• Opportunity to specialise in prominent research areas of our department including; social psychology, cognitive neuropsychology, individual differences or language psychology.

View our programmes in psychology and find out about our vibrant, international and welcoming community.

Masters programmes

Phd psychology programme, our postgraduate community.

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• Health and Medicine /
• Psychology /
• Clinical Psychology

6 Universities in Scotland offering Clinical Psychology degrees and courses

More Information

Are you looking for Clinical Psychology courses? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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University of Aberdeen

THE World Ranking: 201

Glasgow Caledonian University

THE World Ranking: 601

University of Strathclyde

THE World Ranking: 301

University of Glasgow

THE World Ranking: 87

The University of Edinburgh

THE World Ranking: 30

University of Stirling

THE World Ranking: 401

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• Subject Clinical Psychology

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• English - Global

Counselling Psychology

Take existing skills in psychology and apply them to advanced clinical practice and postgraduate research. Choose a career pathway in professional practice and academia.

• stars Double accredited
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Gain integrated clinical training and extensive professional development through GCU’s DPsych Counselling Psychology – the only programme of its kind in  Scotland. Counselling psychology is a rapidly growing area of applied psychology, and a wide range of diverse settings are in need of highly skilled  HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologists.

In this doctorate programme, you’ll expand your ability to work with complex client groups and contribute impactful research to the field of psychological health.

We draw on our relationships with active practitioners to give you a world-class and highly relevant education,  with clinical training in both humanistic (person-centred) and cognitive-behavioural approaches. We take a holistic and comprehensive approach to instruction, and you’ll develop your skills in applied psychological theory and research as well as complete work in ongoing clinical placements.

Here, you’ll be a part of a thriving, open and diverse community with a shared investment in social responsibility and a  commitment to the common good.

Graduate prospects

On graduation, you will qualify for Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society and you are eligible to apply for HCPC registration.

Our graduates benefit from the growing demand for in-depth training and leadership abilities in the field of psychological therapy – and from GCU’s excellent academic reputation and world top 5% ranking. Our alumni work as registered counselling psychologists, making a positive impact in independent practice and academia, the NHS and in social care, organisational, educational and forensic settings.

Accreditations

British Psychological Society

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International Study

18 Best universities for Psychology in Scotland

Updated: February 29, 2024

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• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
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Below is a list of best universities in Scotland ranked based on their research performance in Psychology. A graph of 5.35M citations received by 163K academic papers made by 18 universities in Scotland was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Edinburgh

For Psychology

2. University of Glasgow

3. University of Aberdeen

4. University of Dundee

5. University of St Andrews

6. University of Strathclyde

7. University of Stirling

8. Glasgow Caledonian University

9. Heriot-Watt University

10. Edinburgh Napier University

11. University of the West of Scotland

12. Robert Gordon University

13. Queen Margaret University

14. Abertay University

15. Scotland's Rural College

16. University of the Highlands and Islands

17. Glasgow School of Art

18. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

Closest to Scotland states to learn Psychology

Psychology subfields in Scotland

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Course type

Qualification, university name, phd psychology in scotland.

18 degrees at 7 universities in Scotland.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

About Postgraduate Psychology

Psychology is the study of the human mind, and the types of behaviours shown by individuals and groups of people. It encompasses many factors, including biological influences, social pressures, and environmental factors, and considers both the conscious and unconscious mind. A PhD program in psychology is among the highest formal qualifications which you can study, and involves intensive and extended research projects, designed for individuals who aspire to become leading authorities in the field of human behaviour and cognition.

To qualify for admission to one of the 27 psychology PhD programmes in London, applicants need a strong academic background, including a bachelor's and master's degree in psychology or a closely related field. There are 14 universities which offer PhD courses, and you’ll need to demonstrate prior research experience and a clear project proposal as part of the application process. London is a great place to study a PhD offering students access to top facilities, a large scientific community, and diverse research opportunities.

What to expect

Psychology PhD programmes in London generally range from three to six years in duration, depending on whether you study on a full-time or part-time basis. The course requires long periods of self-driven study, dedication and intellectual rigour. You’ll engage in advanced coursework and statistical analysis, working closely with faculty mentors to develop a specialism in an area of psychology such as specialisation in areas such as clinical psychology, cognitive psychology or social psychology.

Upon completion, you’ll be well placed for careers in academia, research, clinical practice or business organisations, where expertise in human behaviour is vital. PhD programmes meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) education and training standards and carry full accreditation from the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Related subjects:

• PhD Psychology
• PhD Behavioural Psychology
• PhD Child Psychology
• PhD Clinical Psychology
• PhD Cognitive Psychology
• PhD Criminal Psychology
• PhD Developmental Psychology
• PhD Forensic Psychology
• PhD General Psychology
• PhD Psychology Specialisations

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Psychology PhD

University of glasgow.

We are engaged in a wide range of research in experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, language, perception, statistics and Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

MPhil/ PhD/ DEdPsy Psychology

University of strathclyde.

Research opportunities You can study an MPhil over one year, a DEdPsy over two years or a PhD over three years. MPhil and PhD You can Read more...

PhD/MPhil Psychology

Heriot-watt university.

Heriot-Watt University’s mission is to create and exchange knowledge that benefits society, and in keeping with this, our psychology Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree

Philosophy and Psychology PhD

Philosophy and Psychology at the University of Glasgow are thriving. Our vibrant research environment includes an active community of Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Neuroscience & Psychology PhD

We strive to understand the central nervous system at multiple levels of function, from cells to cognition to social interactions. Our Read more...

• 5 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Neuroscience (Biomedical Sciences - Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences) PhD

The university of edinburgh.

The Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences (CDBS) carries out research at molecular, cellular, systems and behavioural levels to understand Read more...

Postgraduate Research Psychology PhD

University of st andrews.

The PhD, in either Psychology or Neuroscience, is a research-based degree, normally conducted over a period of 3 years (or 6 years if taken Read more...

University of Aberdeen

Exploring the themes of Cognition, Perception and Attention and Social Cognition. Our researchers use techniques from experimental Read more...

Mathematical Approaches to Evaluate Health Risks, Behaviour, And Interventions PhD

Abertay university.

Research and knowledge exchange within the field of mental and physical health/wellbeing is a key priority for the 21st century. Our Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,829 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,415 per year (UK)

Integrative Physiology (Biomedical Sciences - Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences) PhD

Developmental psychology and language learning phd.

Abertay’s Division of Psychology and Forensic Sciences has a strong and active role in delivering research degrees, including those in Read more...

Child Life and Health PhD

Research profile Child Life and Health (CLAH) conducts research in paediatric and adolescent medicine. We seek to foster and deliver Read more...

Forensic Psychology, Crime Scene Evidence and Policing PhD

Abertay is a member of the Scottish Graduate School for Social Sciences, and our psychology researchers collaborate across disciplines Read more...

Clinical and Health Psychology PhD

The PhD in Clinical Psychology offer the chance to work with, and be supervised by, a range of clinical academics across many areas of Read more...

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Evolutionary Psychology and Relationship Science PhD

Research profile The Psychology unit is rapidly establishing itself as a centre of excellence for interdisciplinary research. We host five Read more...

Cognitive Psychology and Vision Science PhD

Abertay’s Division of Psychology has a strong and active role in delivering research degrees, including those in partnership with the Read more...

Informatics: ILCC: Language Processing, Speech Technology, Information Retrieval, Cognition PhD

Strongly interdisciplinary in nature, the Institute for Language, Cognition and Communication (ILCC) is dedicated to both basic and applied Read more...

Course type:

• Distance learning PhD
• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Related subjects:.