Qualification
Q: What kind of work experience will be helpful for my application to the MSSc in clinical psychology programme? Is being research assistants in psychology labs helpful or is it better to get a job in a clinical setting?
A: We are looking for applicants who display preparedness in undergoing a scientist-practitioner model of training to become clinical psychologists and future researchers in the field. Work experience that allows applicants to gain relevant research skills and clinical exposure is generally helpful. That said, any work experience that enables personal growth and development of emotional maturity can also be effective in increasing applicants’ preparedness for the programme. Applicants are encouraged to review their profile holistically and pursue opportunities that would be meaningful to their own experiences.
Q: On what basis were candidates chosen for the clinical psychology programme? Is it a must to have relevant working experience prior to enrollment?
A: It is not a must to have relevant working experience on top of the specified academic requirement for candidates to be deemed suitable. Applicants are assessed holistically to see if they are good ‘fits’ with the programme offerings. While there is no definite profile of how a successful candidate may present, strong academic abilities, maturity in terms of personality, and the demonstration of strong interest in the field are typically shown.
Q: Is it possible to get admitted to the Master‘s program, if I have just graduated from my B.S.Sc. or M.A. in Psychology degree, or if I have not been working in Clinical Psychology related industries?
A: Yes. Students coming from all walks of life were admitted to the program every year. As long as they fulfill the minimum requirement of application, there is an opportunity. However, no matter what occupation or life stage you are in, you are highly encouraged to reflect on your advantages and shortcomings when you foresee yourself as a future Clinical Psychologist. Expand your strengths and work on your obstacles. For instance, for students lacking actual working experiences, except for acknowledging and accepting the disadvantages it may cause, you are encouraged to expose yourself to varied second-hand experiences and life stories that could help you discern and understand others.
Q: I have applied to the programme previously but did not manage to get in, should I try again?
A: Not getting in before does not necessarily mean you don’t stand a chance. Whether or not it is worth another attempt depends on how you have changed, what you have learned since your last application, and whether these changes are aligned with the programmer's requirements.
Admission interview
Q: Are interviews conducted in English or Cantonese? How should I prepare for the interviews? / What qualities or skills are you looking for in the interviews?
A: Interviews may be conducted in both English and Cantonese; applicants should be comfortable switching between the two languages. Applicants should be prepared to talk about their relevant research/ work experience as well as their Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis. There may be roleplay exercises or group discussions/ activities to assess applicants’ preparedness and fit for the programme. Applicants should display good communication skills and ability to build rapport.
Q: What should I do to get myself prepared for the interview(s)?
A: Whilst we cannot expose the content and format of the interviews, as a general guidance there are certain things you may consider doing in preparing for the interview(s). First of all, it will be helpful for you to review and get familiar with the contents of the submitted application documents (e.g. your personal statement, CV, thesis abstract) as those are the information available to the interviewers which they may ask you to elaborate on. You may also want to reflect upon the important past experiences and circumstances that led you to want to become a Clinical Psychologist. Being clear about this can help the interviewers understand more about your personal background and aspirations. Other questions to ask yourself are whether you have considered any alternatives apart from this programme, what is your view about the profession including its strengths and boundaries, and what working as a Clinical Psychologist means to you. These all come together to become your case of how determined you are to pursue this path. To calm the interview anxiety (which we all have), it may be helpful to attune yourself to the mindset that the interviewers are not here to challenge or demoralise you. Their primary goal is to learn more about you as a person, including your personality, your perspectives, and how you interact with others. It is therefore crucial that you be your genuine self and respond according to what you truly believe. This will enable the interviewers to accurately evaluate whether you are a suitable person for the position. Aside from the hard-core preparation, it is equally important to find balance and let yourself rest up. It can be easy to get stressed out and overwhelmed when preparing for the interviews, so do remember to take breaks - perhaps go for a run, watch Netflix, meditate, and very importantly, get some good sleep the night before. These will make you feel refreshed and clear your mind for the interview.
Study
Q: How demanding is the workload of the programme?
A: To equip students with knowledge and skills of the profession, the programme involves an extensive scope of subject knowledge as well as clinical training, both of which require a high level of commitment. It is therefore recommended to plan ahead before enrolling in the programme. Students also find it helpful to have adequate interpersonal support and maintain self-care.
Q: What is the medium of instruction for the program?
A: Courses of this program are primarily delivered in Cantonese, supplemented by teaching materials in English. Knowledge of spoken Cantonese and written Chinese are pre-requisites for enrolling in this program.
Q: What would I be expecting in the five placements if I were to be admitted to the programme?
A: There will be a variety of placement settings encompassing clinical psychological services in Department of Health, Hospital Authority, Child Assessment Centres, Correctional Services Department, Hong Kong Police Force, Social Welfare Department, and other non-government organisations. In addition, we have partnerships with overseas universities for exchange opportunity in one of the five placements, subject to change annually. This year, we have partnered up with Boston University and Yale University. In all placements, you will receive comprehensive clinical training under supervision of experienced clinical psychologists.
Q: Will I be able to choose where to go for clinical placement?
A: Students might indicate their preference for certain clinical settings. However, the final placement assignment will be arranged by a placement coordinator. Students might or might not be assigned to their preferred placement settings depending on several factors such as the availability of supervisors and placement schedule.
Career
Q: Can I practice in other countries after graduation from the CP programme?
A: Clinical Psychologists are in demand worldwide. Many countries welcome clinical psychologists from overseas. Our MSSC in Clinical Psychology programme is comparable to some countries' qualifications listed. Some countries may require additional academic or clinical qualifications. For example: In Australia, it requires registered Clinical Psychologists to have a master's or higher degree in psychology, but it requires a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in the US.