What is an accredited conversion programme?
The course will usually consist of at least one full year (approximately 45 weeks full-time, or its part-time equivalent) and typically comprise either 120 or 180 credits.
Applicants to conversion programmes must normally have a degree at any level which has not been accredited by the Society (whether in psychology or another subject). For conversion programmes comprising 180 credits, this is the only entry requirement set by the Society, although individual providers may set other requirements that they expect their applicants to meet.
Previous studies
For awards comprising only 120 credits, applicants will need to have previously studied the equivalent of at least 60 credits of psychology at the undergraduate level (level 4 or above; level 7 in Scotland). If you haven't done 60 credits or more of psychology study, you can usually do a bridging or access course (often a certificate in psychology) first.
A small number of conversion course providers also welcome applicants who have completed a Society-accredited programme and therefore are already eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership. They typically offer their courses in more specialist areas that may offer interesting further study opportunities for psychology graduates.
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If you have any queries, please contact the Customer Support Team.
What types of programmes does the BPS accredit?
We accredit undergraduate, conversion and postgraduate courses and training programmes. The society's accreditation process is open to all UK providers, and covers provision delivered in the UK and internationally.
Undergraduate
At the undergraduate level, the society accredits a range of single, joint and combined honours courses leading to eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).
Conversion courses are intended for graduates with a non-accredited undergraduate degree who wish to obtain GBC.
Postgraduate
At the postgraduate level, the society accredits psychology courses relating to the different routes to Chartered Membership. These include:
- Clinical Psychology
- Counselling Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Health Psychology
- Occupational Psychology
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
These areas also correspond with the seven domains of practice regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Training programmes
We also accredit training programmes in clinical neuropsychology, a post-qualification specialism.
The society also accredits training programmes designed to prepare people for roles within the wider psychological workforce, including courses for people training to be psychological wellbeing practitioners (PWP).
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If you have any queries, please contact the Qualifications Team.
Does the society accredit international degrees?
Although the society began accrediting UK awards delivered outside of the UK in 2014/15, it doesn't currently accredit international degrees.
If you completed your degree at an institution outside of the UK, you will, therefore, need to submit an individual application for Graduate Membership of the Society so that our Membership team can properly assess eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership based on the qualifications you have.
GBC is an important step towards becoming a Chartered Member of the Society (CPsychol). If you hope to continue to study psychology after your degree, it is recommended that you choose an accredited course so that you can leave your options open.
Without eligibility for the GBC, you won't be able to complete society-accredited postgraduate and professional studies.
More information on becoming a member of the society.
All overseas applications are assessed on the individual merit of the qualifications received, and confirmation of your eligibility for the GBC will then be available to you.
If you're not eligible, then you may need to complete an accredited conversion programme.
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If you have any queries about applying for Society membership, email the Membership Team or call +44 (0)116 252 9911.