Psychology with Clinical Approaches with Foundation year BSc (Hons)

Buckinghamshire New University

This is a British Psychological Society (BPS) Accredited degree which provides the student with a firm foundation in core areas of psychology in addition to uniquely developed clinical psychology modules. It would be of interest to students who are thinking of clinical-focused and therapeutic careers but wish to keep their options open – by having a BPS Accredited degree they have the option of going into any area of Psychology after graduating. In addition, it would be a good foundation for going into Clinical Psychology (via the postgraduate route). Fundamentally, though, it is the first step of becoming a Chartered Member of the BPS through the clinical psychology training route. The first step is the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) which is achieved by completing a BPS accredited degree (or conversion course). The next step would be a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. All core areas of Psychology are covered (including Personality, Social, Cognitive, Developmental, Biopsychology) which is a requirement of a BPS Accredited Degree which ensures that quality standards in education and training are met. In addition, Clinical Psychology students will have two semester-long module in the 1st year, Introduction to Clinical Psychology which provides the philosophical, historical and international context. Approaches in Therapeutic Traditions complements all the introductory core psychology modules as it provides the student with cognitive approaches in therapy, for example. In addition, the distinction, and intertwined history and contemporary developments, between Clinical and Counselling Psychology is in understanding the focus on particular mental health problems hence the inclusion of Understanding Mental Health in the 1st year. In the 2nd year, the student will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the dyadic nature of counselling and some underlying skills (e.g. active listening, motivational interviewing). In addition they look at professional and advanced ethical issues whilst taking a more applied perspective on the subject with ‘client presenting problems’ and ‘therapeutic specialisms’ all with a clear understanding of dealing with diverse client groups and varied settings. The options available (see Programme Structure) in the final year would ensure students seek skills and knowledge training in a subject that fits the clinical environment they may be focused on (e.g. Prison, Police, Business, Education) or in learning more advanced skills (e.g. CBT). Bucks New University Psychology Department is also home to two highly successful post graduate courses: MSc/PGDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; MSc. Applied Positive Psychology. These two complementary areas of study and practice, and the expertise and resources associated with them, have been drawn upon to produce a truly unique clinical psychology course. The Psychology Department at Bucks New University also actively promotes the involvement of local agencies, companies and individuals in delivering sessions to all our students. These exciting opportunities to hear from, and liaise with, external experts include HM Prison & Probation Staff, Counselling Psychologists, Senior Police Officers, Neuropsychologists, Occupational Psychologists etc. There are also frequently external visits to relevant museums, prisons, courts and sports venues to see psychology in an applied context. Whilst these opportunities are presented to any and all Bucks Psychology students, Clinical Psychology students will benefit from having access to any similar opportunities in the CBT programmes and the Applied Positive Psychology programmes. In addition, it is envisaged there will be strong links with Counselling Psychology, Mental Health Nursing and also synergies with programme