The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Psychology Practice at the University of Galway is a four-year, full-time postgraduate research and professional training qualification designed for those aspiring to become Health Psychology Practitioners. This programme addresses the growing need for skilled professionals who can apply psychological principles to health and illness, focusing on health promotion, behaviour change, and the psychological impact of disease. You will engage with core competencies essential for practice, including generic professional competence, health psychology interventions, consultancy, teaching, and research. This PhD is ideal for individuals seeking advanced training and supervised practice to meet the rigorous standards of the field.
This comprehensive PhD programme, studied on campus over four years full-time, integrates advanced research training with practical experience. You will develop your expertise through a combination of coursework, supervised practice in applied settings, and the completion of a substantial PhD thesis. The curriculum is structured to build five core health psychology competencies, ensuring you are well-prepared for professional roles. You will graduate with the skills and qualifications necessary to work as a Health Psychology Practitioner in diverse settings such as hospitals, health research units, primary care, and government departments, contributing significantly to public health and well-being.