Frequently asked questions (FAQ's) for our online MSc

A: There is a £90 application fee for the course

A: We currently have the Asquith Mature Student Bursary available for the Child and Adolescent route. For other potential sources of funding, please see UCL’s funding page which includes information on funding your studies and any UCL-wide scholarships you may be eligible for.

A: No, the certificate will not show your mode of study, however transcripts will show your mode of study as ‘distance learning’.

A: No, this is an academic rather than a clinical programme.  It is not accredited with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and does not lead to a clinical or professional qualification. However, it is likely to be relevant and helpful both for people wanting to pursue a clinical training, and for clinicians who wish to develop their academic knowledge within this area. The programme contains modules on clinical and therapeutic approaches to trauma – these are delivered from an academic perspective. However, we do focus on trauma-informed practice, and we will cover practical and applied aspects of working with trauma-exposed populations. 

A: The adult route provides an evidence-based understanding of how trauma impacts mental health and wellbeing throughout adulthood. We cover key theories and models, considering cognitive, behavioural, systemic, and neuroscience perspectives and a wide range of evidence-based and emerging interventions, including trauma-focused therapies, EMDR, memory reconsolidation, mindfulness, somatic approaches, use of psychedelics in treatment, and virtual reality among others , applying an academic lens which will enable you to critically evaluate the evidence base.  The programme also considers important systemic, cultural, and global contexts, and explores trauma and psychology across varied lenses and sectors, such as public health, education and social care. 

A: 2025/6 is the first year that the programme will be running. We have developed the programme to meet the high demand for an academic programme in Psychology and Trauma, and this will be a unique programme within the UK. 

A: Yes, the course is delivered entirely online. This allows students from all over the world to access the course without the need to relocate. This flexibility means that students can engage with most of the learning at times that suit their personal and professional commitments. Additionally, the online format fosters a diverse and global learning community, enabling students to connect with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This international perspective enriches discussions and deepens understanding of the impact of trauma across various global contexts. 

A: Within the programme, we will be talking about all aspects of psychological trauma, including the nature of traumatic events and how people and communities are impacted and recover from these. We welcome people with lived experience of trauma on the programme, and value their contribution to our learning community. 

At the beginning of the programme, we will be thinking together about self-care, and will share information about sources of support through student wellbeing services. However, we will not give trigger warnings for individual sessions, and invite you to consider carefully whether this programme is right for you at this time, if you have been impacted by trauma within your life. 

A: Both routes discuss child and adult trauma however each route has a different main focus. It may be worth thinking about which population you currently or would like to work with in the future. You will be able to find further information on each course page including links to our module catalogue where you will find a description of each modules content to help make your decision.