Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology by coursework and mini-dissertation is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of Clinical Psychology at an advanced level. Students will be trained to reflect critically on the praxis of Clinical Counselling and be able to deal with complex issues within the field both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise research, make a sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Learners design and critically appraise research, make sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

This qualification equips learners with specialised and advanced knowledge to provide curative services, diagnose and prevent pathology, and promote bio-psychosocial health. They also promote primary, secondary and tertiary welfare in various settings; particularly with people facing serious life challenges and forms of psychopathology and psychological distress.

Furthermore, learners apply critical knowledge, skills, principles and methods to function independently as professional psychologists in a variety of contexts. This function happens in adherence and compliance with the professional guidelines laid down by the Professional Board of Psychology. The learner complies with the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to register for an internship in Clinical Psychology.

Rationale

This professional qualification is firstly a prerequisite for registration as an intern and eventually to a Clinical Psychologist at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). It is, therefore, necessary to develop and offer this qualification to provide opportunities for honours learners in related qualifications to gain the necessary skills to register at the HPCSA and practice as Clinical Psychologists. Furthermore, there is a wide skills gap and a greater workforce needed in South Africa in the field of clinical psychology. This need has necessitated several career possibilities in the field of clinical psychology. In designing this qualification, the institution is cognisant of the skills gap in South Africa.

Moreover, the field of Clinical Psychology is growing and changing worldwide and particularly in South Africa. However, there is still very limited research in the field, and most learners in South Africa are registered professional clinical psychologist and not researchers. This qualification intends to educate and train researchers to contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field of clinical psychology as it provides an opportunity for the articulation to doctoral studies in the field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. The application of RPL is according to the Recognition of prior learning, credit accumulation and transfer, and assessment (CHE 2016) and the institution's RPL policy.

• The Faculty of Health Sciences ensures the implementation of quality assurance processes in the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems). It also ensures that administrative and support systems, both before and after RPL assessment, are in place.
• Learners' assessment is against NQF Level 8 competencies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor Honours Degree in Psychology, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Relevant Postgraduate Diploma, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 200 Credits

• Research Theory and Dissertation in Clinical Psychology, 100 Credits.
• Child and Adolescent Pathology and Therapy, 20 Credits.
• Theory of Psychological Interventions, 20 Credits.
• Psychopharmacology, Neuropsychology and Advanced Psychopathology in Clinical Psychology, 20 Credits.
• Applied Psychology and Community Interventions, 20 Credits.
• Ethics, Psych Diagnostics and Practical Work, 20 Credits.

1. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of the field of Clinical Psychology and the ability to engage with and critique current research or practice in this field;
2. Analyse, evaluate and then choose appropriate enquiry methods and processes for the study of relevant materials related to the field of Clinical Psychology;
3. Demonstrate critical knowledge and understanding of the ethical and legal considerations applicable to research and the consequences of interventions on an individual, group and organisational level;
4. Design, planning, conducting and evaluating, using appropriate and creative qualitative and quantitative research methods, appropriate intervention strategies to address relevant needs and problems within the field of Clinical Psychology;
5. Interpret psychological dynamics and pathology required for specialised screening of individuals, groups and organisations;
6. Demonstrate critical knowledge and true understanding of hierarchical relations and networks (equivalent professional peers within the primary health care system) within the relevant system and be able to use these to the advantage of individuals, groups and organisations;
7. Undertake supervised research and to write a mini-dissertation in the field of study and to develop and sustain independent learning, academic and professional development;
8. Practice of acceptable social sensitivity in their relationship with others and work effectively in a team by implementing the relevant theory and reflect on the implementation thereof;
9. Utilise appropriate technology (computer, e-mail, fax, psychometric tests) effectively in the Clinical Psychology environment (technological and environmental literacy);
10. Explore different effective learning strategies to acquire the different capabilities of a practitioner in the field of Clinical Psychology;
11. Promote responsible citizenship through their approach towards the holistic application of Clinical Psychology-related skills. Assessing and diagnosing different needs and problems at the individual, group and community levels;
12. Consult with individuals, groups and organisations to facilitate growth and development in the quest for the actualisation of human potential; and
13. Manage private practice, thereby creating the possibility of self-employment.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria apply across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Identify a research topic and conduct basic research using applicable qualitative, quantitative or a combination of both research methods and submit a research report in a mini-dissertation format.
• Formulate primary and differential diagnoses relating to various forms of child and adolescent psychopathology and neuropathology. The diagnoses are according to the DSM-V and ICD-10 classification system.
• Differentiate between a normal and abnormal child and adolescent development paying particular attention to the different causes of psychological and neuropsychological disorders in children and adolescents from various meta-theoretical models.
• Communicate a professional impression, diagnosis and recommendations for interventions, rehabilitations or referrals either through a well-structured report or orally.
• Develop a clear, concise and realistic plan to implement advanced and appropriate basic and in-depth developmental, counselling and psychological interventions and parental guidance programmes in dealing with normal problems of life concerning all stages and aspects of a child's and adolescents existence in order to > prevent psychopathology, promote optimal bio-psycho-social well-being and facilitate desirable adjustment, growth and maturity.
• Ethically communicate professional impressions and conclusions to multi-disciplinary teams.
• Arrange appropriate referrals and demonstrate competence in case management.
• Design and apply psychological interventions programmes to people with psychiatric conditions and serious life challenges in diverse communities and manage and evaluate the programmes professionally.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment occurs through projects, assignments, case studies and tests during the year in the modules. In some modules, formative assessment include portfolios, practical evaluations and a research proposal.

Learners write a summative and integrated exam and submit a supervised mini-dissertation on discrete research for summative assessment.