How long does it take to become a psychologist in the UK?

Mental health is so important. On that, we can all agree. As a result of increased awareness and importance, there are hundreds of new openings for psychologists and mental health professionals every year. But how long does it take to become a psychologist in the UK? What degrees do you need and should you keep studying after university? We’ll shed light on that in this quick read.

Psychology undergraduate studies

There are a number of psychology undergraduate courses available, some of which are British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited. But at the University of Bolton, we take it one step further and our BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling has an additional accreditation by ABC Awards, so you get a Level 2 & 3 in counselling skills as well.

Here are all the amazing undergraduate degree courses at Bolton to consider if you want to become a psychologist in the UK:

● BSc (Hons) Psychology
● BSc (Hons) Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience
● BSc (Hons) Mental Health Wellbeing and Counselling
● BSc (Hons) Psychology, Psychotherapy and Counselling
● BSc (Hons) Criminological & Forensic Psychology
● BSc (Hons) Psychology with Applications in Education
● BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sport and Exercise

Psychology postgraduate studies

Once you have the foundational knowledge, you’ll want to acquire a Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the BPS and start your postgraduate specialism in one of these amazing pathways:

● MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology
● MSc Counselling and Positive Psychology
● MSc Positive Psychology
● MSc Psychology
● MSc Social Neuroscience
● MSc Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapies
● PgDip Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapies
● MSc Psychological Wellbeing & Mental Health
● MSc Forensic Psychology

The National Careers Service explains, “You might be able to complete an approved psychology conversion course if: your psychology degree is not accredited by the British Psychological Society [or] you have a degree in a subject other than psychology.” We offer some options for that too.

It’s also a good idea to try to get some work experience or volunteer in the field before you select your postgraduate focus. That way, you’ll know if you like the environment and the work itself before you commit more time to it. Our Employability Team can help you find opportunities.

How long does it take to become a psychologist in the UK?

So, how long does all this take? After secondary school, expect to spend 6-7 years in education and work experience towards becoming a chartered psychologist. From there, the sky's the limit. The NHS explains, “After qualifying and gaining some clinical experience, you may decide to specialise in a particular area of work, [...] specific psychological therapies [or…] go into supervisory roles, clinical management or clinical academic research. ”Once you make that initial investment, there are a range of roles you could move into if you find you like working with older people, children, specific disorders or using one type of treatment approach. This makes a psychology course a really good degree to have.

Are you ready to dive in and become a psychologist in the UK? We can help you find the right course to launch your learning journey. Talk to us at +44 (0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to get started and enjoy #UniAsItShouldBe.