Overview

This MSc is only available to non-residents of the UK who wish to study via distance learning.

The taught content of this MSc is identical to the taught content we provide when training qualified professional Clinical Psychologists in the UK who wish to specialise in Clinical Neuropsychology. The course therefore delivers an authentic reflection of clinical practice and clinical training. You will learn about a range of neuropsychological disorders and pathologies as well as focusing on principles of assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. The course will also develop your knowledge of anatomy, brain function and techniques employed to study the human brain.

Around 80% of the course is delivered by clinicians practicing in UK hospitals and we teach a large range of clinical skills which will support those who seek a career working with patients or conducting clinical research. Weekly online tutorials (during term-time) with Clinical Neuropsychologists give students an opportunity to interact with professionals and learn from their many years of experience. The MSc is focused upon evidence-based approaches and recognises biological, psychological, and social factors which impact upon brain injury, disease and the patient experience.

The programme includes a clinical dissertation in which students will study material drawn from existing clinical cases and consider diagnoses, formulation, treatment, and patient management. The dissertation includes 1:1 career mentoring, further training in clinical assessment and consideration of cultural differences in the principles of assessment and treatment. This degree supports part time study (over two years) for international students.

Programme structure

The programme consists of six taught units and a clinical dissertation.

Applied Clinical Neuropsychology and Principles of Neuropsychological Assessment (30 credits) covers a range of common neuropsychological disorders and the principles of patient assessment and interpretation of neuropsychological tests (including change scores).

Functional Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience Methods and Issues in Clinical Neuropsychology (30 credits) has two components. First, a consideration of a range of neuroscientific techniques and their utility in understanding brain function and dysfunction. The second component covers a range of issues frequently encountered in clinical neuropsychology. For example, pain and cognition, PTSD, performance validity testing and functional neurological disorders.

Theoretical and Practical Neuropsychology (20 credits) covers theories of brain function (for example, emotion and cognition, language, ageing) and also considers the interface between clinical neuropsychology and other allied disciplines (such as neurosurgery, clinical imaging).

Development and Rehabilitation (20 credits) considers a range of rehabilitation techniques and places these in the context of the recovery journey.

Evidence Based Neuropsychology (10 credits) involves critical reviews of peer reviewed papers, and Case Study (10 credits) requires each student to review a clinical case in detail.

Please visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for the distance learning MSc in Applied Neuropsychology.

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in psychology or a closely related discipline (for example, neuroscience or clinical psychology).

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

Go to admissions statement

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level C.

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Fees and funding

UK: full-time
£12,600 per year
UK: part-time (two years)
£6,300 per year
Overseas: full-time
£24,600 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding for 2023/24

For UK students undertaking postgraduate programmes, there is a scholarship award available from the Grundy Educational Trust.

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

This degree delivers core skills and knowledge related to the theory and practice of clinical neuropsychology. It will support those with aspirations for further clinical training, such as clinical (neuro)psychology, or a career in clinical research. Our programmes also deliver training that will enhance your opportunities to gain employment within clinical environments.

All countries face healthcare challenges associated with brain injury and disease. Conditions such as stroke and dementia are common, and their prevalence is increasing as people live longer. The need for clinical neuropsychologists could not be greater. We offer professional training to clinicians within the UK. Excluding the dissertation, this programme offers the same levels of training that could help you to address those challenges in your country. The dissertation unit is new and specially designed for this degree in order to foster enhanced clinical skills.