Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) selection updates and FAQs for September 2027 entry

Find the latest information about applying for the University of Hertfordshire Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) programme starting in September 2027, including application deadlines, interviews, eligibility requirements and FAQs.

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About this page

This page provides updates and answers to frequently asked questions about applying for the University of Hertfordshire Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) programme starting in September 2027.

We receive a high volume of enquiries and may not be able to respond to individual questions. Please check this page regularly for the latest updates throughout the selection process.

Application updates

When can I apply for the September 2027 DClinPsy programme?

Applications for the September 2027 cohort open in September 2026.

All applications, including NHS-funded and self-funded applications, must be submitted through the Clearing House website.

Link: Clearing House website

Key dates

Activity

Date

Application deadline

TBC

Interview invitations sent

TBC

Interview outcomes sent

TBC

International applicants

Can overseas applicants apply?

Yes. We will accept self-funded overseas fee-status applicants for September 2027 entry.

If you require a Student visa, you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) before applying. You must also demonstrate that you can pay your tuition fees and living costs for yourself and any dependants.

Useful information:

Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Yes. If you require a Student visa, you will normally need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application.

Applying to the programme

Can I submit additional documents with my application?

No. Please only submit the documents required by Clearing House. Additional documents cannot be accepted.

What if I do not know my degree percentage?

You can:

  • Enter the percentage from your highest qualification, such as a Master's degree.
  • Enter N/A if the percentage is unavailable.
  • Enter your final grade in the percentage field.

Can I apply if I am still completing a postgraduate degree?

Yes, provided your thesis is submitted before the course starts.

We recommend that your viva has taken place before the programme begins. If you are likely to have substantial corrections or cannot meet the required timescales, you may wish to delay your application by a year.

Applicants should also follow current guidance regarding previous NHSE-funded training.

Can mature applicants apply?

Yes. We welcome applications from mature candidates and people who have followed non-traditional routes into psychology. Applicants are encouraged to explain their educational and professional journey in their application.

References

Who should submit my references?

References must be sent directly to Clearing House by the referee. Applicants cannot submit references themselves.

If you are offered a place, additional reference checks may also be completed by the employing NHS Trust.

Who can provide an academic reference?

This would normally be someone from your most recent academic course. However, if that is not appropriate, another referee may provide the reference, provided they can comment on your academic abilities rather than your clinical or research skills.

You should explain your choice of referee within your application if necessary.

English language requirements and fee status

Do I need IELTS if I studied in English?

International applicants from countries where English is not the official first language normally require an overall IELTS score of 8.0, with no component below 7.5.

The requirement may be waived if you have completed a degree in the UK or another predominantly English-speaking country, such as the USA or Australia.

Do I need IELTS if I studied abroad but have worked in the UK?

Yes. An IELTS qualification is normally required unless you meet the programme's exemption criteria.

Do you use A Levels when shortlisting applicants?

No. A Levels are not considered as part of shortlisting.

When do I need to prove my fee status?

Home fee status evidence is required during pre-employment and University checks before starting the programme.

Experience and entry requirements

When must I meet the entry requirements?

Applicants must meet the entry requirements when they submit their application.

How much relevant experience do I need?

Relevant experience:

  • Must be completed after your undergraduate psychology degree.
  • Must relate to clinical psychology practice or mental health.
  • Can include part-time work.
  • Must be recorded in the employment section of the application.

Minimum experience required:

Route Minimum experience
NHS-funded 24 months
Self-funded 12 months

Does part-time experience count?

Yes. Part-time experience can be counted towards the minimum experience requirement.

Can I apply with a 2:2 degree and a Master's qualification?

Yes. A relevant Master's degree can enable applicants with a 2:2 undergraduate degree to meet the minimum entry criteria.

Does completing a Master's improve my chances?

A Master's degree is only required for applicants who do not meet the undergraduate degree requirement. However, additional qualifications may strengthen an application.

Driving and travel requirements

Do I need a driving licence?

Trainees are required to travel independently across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and parts of Essex to attend placements, university teaching and community-based activities.

For some placements, public transport may not be practical. In many cases, this requirement is met through access to a car and a full driving licence.

Reasonable adjustments will be considered in line with the Equality Act 2010. However, applicants must be able to meet the essential travel requirements of the role.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Do you use contextual admissions?

Yes. We use contextual admissions to support applicants from under-represented backgrounds. Where candidates receive equal scores, contextual admissions may be used to prioritise applicants.

What are the programme's values?

The programme aligns with NHS and University values, with a strong focus on:

  • Inclusivity
  • Social justice
  • Community
  • Equality, diversity and inclusion

The programme also has a dedicated EDI Lead and works closely with the University's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion teams.

What accessibility and disability support is available?

The programme works with the University's wellbeing services to assess support needs and recommend reasonable adjustments.

As NHS employees, trainees can also access occupational health and staff support services.

Interviews

When will interviews take place?

Interviews will take place during the week commencing 3 May 2027.

  • NHS-funded interviews will be held in person at the University of Hertfordshire.
  • Self-funded overseas applicant interviews will be held online.

How will I be notified about interviews?

Interview invitations and other communication will be sent by email. If urgent contact is required, we may also telephone you using the contact details provided in your application.

Are there DClinPsy open days?

We do not currently offer programme open days.

Applicants invited to interview are usually given the opportunity to attend a question-and-answer session or speak with current trainees.

Feedback

Will I receive interview feedback?

Yes. Applicants who attend an interview will receive brief feedback, including:

  • One area of strength
  • One area for development

Contact details

DClinPsy Administrators, Doctoral College
dclinpsy-selection@herts.ac.uk

Please note that the administration office closes at 16:00 on Fridays.

Useful links

 

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