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Mental Health

Psychologist

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Psychologists study the human mind and behaviour. In the UK, they may work in clinical settings, schools, research institutions, or private practices. Their work can involve assessing and treating mental health problems, conducting therapy sessions, developing treatment plans, and carrying out research to better understand how people think, feel, and act. Psychologists often specialise in areas such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, occupational psychology, or forensic psychology. To become a psychologist in the UK, you typically need a degree in psychology accredited by the British Psychological Society, followed by postgraduate training or a doctorate in your chosen field.

Psychologist

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

In the UK, psychologists typically earn between £31,000 and £62,000 per year, depending on experience and specialisation.

Employment Numbers

There are over 25,000 registered psychologists in the UK, working across the NHS, private practice, education, and research.

Job Growth

The demand for psychologists in the UK is expected to grow by around 6 percent over the next five years, driven by increased awareness of mental health.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Clinical Psychologist

Works directly with patients to assess and treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and phobias.

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Educational Psychologist

Supports children and young people in educational settings, helping them overcome learning and behavioural difficulties.

Forensic Psychologist

Applies psychological knowledge within the criminal justice system, often working with offenders, victims, and law enforcement agencies.

Achieve Academic Qualifications

Complete GCSEs and A-levels

Achieve good grades in GCSEs, focusing on science subjects, and take A-levels, preferably in Psychology, Biology or Sociology.

Strong GCSE results, especially in English, Maths, and Science, are important to access A-levels. Psychology at A-level is helpful but not always required; Biology or other sciences can also demonstrate relevant skills. Some universities may have specific subject requirements, so it is wise to check these early.

Obtain a Psychology Degree

Apply for and complete a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited undergraduate degree in Psychology.

You must complete a psychology degree that is accredited by the BPS to be eligible for further training and eventual registration as a psychologist. This degree typically takes three years full-time. During your studies, try to gain relevant work experience through volunteering or placements.

Gain Postgraduate Training and Experience

Pursue Postgraduate Study

Undertake a relevant postgraduate qualification, such as a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or a Masters in a specialist area.

Entry to postgraduate courses can be competitive, and you will often need relevant work experience, such as working as a research assistant or support worker. Doctorate courses combine academic learning with practical placements, and usually take three years to complete.

Gain Supervised Experience

Complete supervised practice as part of your training, working with clients in your chosen specialism.

Throughout your postgraduate training, you will work under supervision in settings such as hospitals, clinics, schools, or other organisations. This practical experience is essential to develop your skills and confidence, and to meet registration requirements.

Register and Develop Your Career

Register with Professional Bodies

Register as a Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and join the BPS.

It is a legal requirement to register with the HCPC to practise as a psychologist in the UK. Membership of the BPS provides further professional development opportunities and keeps you up to date with best practice.

Continue Professional Development

Take part in ongoing training, attend conferences, and consider further specialisation.

Psychology is a continuously evolving field. You can specialise further in areas such as forensic, educational, or occupational psychology. Attending workshops, seminars, and conferences will help you stay current and progress in your career.

🎯 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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