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Mental Health

Psychologist

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Psychologists study human behaviour, emotions, and thought processes. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, private clinics, and research institutions. Their main role is to help people overcome psychological difficulties through assessment, therapy, and support. Psychologists may specialise in areas such as clinical, educational, occupational, or forensic psychology. They use a range of techniques, including interviews, tests, and observations, to understand and support their clients. Good communication and problem-solving skills are important, as is the ability to work with diverse groups of people.

Psychologist

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a psychologist in the UK ranges from £31,000 to £61,000 per year, depending on experience and specialism.

Job Market

There are currently over 20,000 registered psychologists in the UK, with increasing demand in the NHS and private sector.

Entry Requirements

To become a chartered psychologist, you usually need a degree in psychology accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), followed by postgraduate study and supervised practice.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Clinical Psychologist

Works with individuals of all ages to assess and treat mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and behavioural problems, often within the NHS or private practice.

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Educational Psychologist

Supports children and young people in educational settings, helping to overcome learning difficulties and improve wellbeing in schools and colleges.

Forensic Psychologist

Applies psychological principles within the criminal justice system, working with offenders, victims, and law enforcement to understand and address criminal behaviour.

Achieve Relevant Qualifications

Complete GCSEs and A Levels

Gain strong GCSEs, especially in English, maths, and science, then take A levels in psychology, biology, or related subjects.

Most universities require at least five GCSEs at grades 4-9, including English and maths, as well as good A levels. Psychology or science subjects are particularly useful, though not always required. Focus on achieving the highest grades possible, as psychology courses can be competitive.

Obtain a Psychology Degree

Apply for a BPS-accredited undergraduate degree in psychology.

Choose a university course accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This is essential if you want to become a chartered psychologist later. Undergraduate courses usually take three years full-time and cover a broad range of psychological theories, research methods, and practical skills.

Gain Experience and Further Study

Complete Postgraduate Training

Pursue a postgraduate degree in your chosen area of psychology, such as clinical, educational, or occupational psychology.

Postgraduate training is usually required to specialise and practise as a psychologist. These courses often involve both academic study and supervised practice. Entry can be very competitive, so strong academic results and relevant work experience can help your application.

Gain Work Experience

Get relevant experience through placements, volunteering, or assistant psychologist roles.

Many employers and postgraduate courses look for experience working with people in settings such as mental health, education, or social care. Volunteering with support organisations or working as a research or assistant psychologist can give you valuable insights and strengthen your CV.

Become a Chartered Psychologist

Register with the HCPC and BPS

Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and become a chartered member of the British Psychological Society (BPS).

To practise as a psychologist in the UK, you must be registered with the HCPC. Chartered status with the BPS recognises your professional qualifications and experience. You will need to demonstrate that you have completed all relevant qualifications and supervised practice.

Continue Professional Development

Stay up to date by attending training, workshops, and conferences, and following ethical guidelines.

Psychology is always evolving, so ongoing learning is essential. This could include further qualifications, short courses, or attending events. Maintaining registration requires evidence of continuing professional development (CPD), so always look for ways to improve your skills and knowledge.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Psychologist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

How to become

You can get into this career through a university course.

University

To become a psychologist, you'll need to:

Psychology conversion course

You may be able to complete an approved psychology conversion course if:

  • your psychology degree is not accredited by The BPS
  • you have a degree in a subject other than psychology

Postgraduate qualification

To practise as a psychologist, you'll need to complete an accredited postgraduate qualification in your chosen specialism.

Specialisms include:

  • educational psychology
  • forensic psychology
  • occupational psychology
  • sport and exercise psychology

To apply for a postgraduate specialism course, you’ll need:

  • a first or 2:1 (upper second class) degree
  • excellent research skills
  • relevant work experience

You should check the postgraduate entry requirements with the admissions department where you want to study.

You can find out more about all of the different specialisms and the postgraduate training from The BPS.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Volunteering

It can be helpful to get some voluntary experience in health or social care or in education before you apply for a course.

You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do IT.

More Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The British Psychological Society (BPS) for professional development opportunities.

Further information

You'll find more advice on careers and training in psychology from The British Psychological Society (BPS) and Health Careers.

You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions.

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