The recent ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ - University of Cyberjaya Outbound Student Mobility has successfully concluded, marking a significant milestone in the professional development of our psychology students. This six-week blended internship programme in Clinical and Counselling Psychology offered a comprehensive educational experience designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By combining online preparatory learning with immersive offline training, the initiative provided a unique opportunity for participants to gain hands-on experience, ensuring they developed the essential skills required for their future careers in the mental health sector.
The structure of the programme was meticulously divided into three distinct phases to maximise learning outcomes for the 29 students who participated. The journey began with a one-week online pre-programme session focused on establishing a strong academic foundation. During this initial phase, participants engaged in interactive lectures and case discussions centred on foundational concepts in clinical and counselling psychology. These sessions were complemented by preparatory assignments, ensuring that every student was theoretically equipped before transitioning to the practical components of the internship.
Following the preparatory week, the cohort travelled to the University of Cyberjaya in Malaysia for an intensive in-person training segment from the 24th of October to the 9th of November 2025. This two-week period served as the core of the internship, offering direct exposure to clinical settings and specialised training activities. Students participated in workshops regarding psychological assessment tools and engaged in practical training for counselling techniques. To strengthen their interpersonal skills, the participants undertook role-play exercises and simulations, while group discussions and peer learning sessions fostered a collaborative environment. This hands-on approach allowed students to experience real-world psychological applications, significantly enhancing their confidence and professional capabilities.
Upon conclusion of the international training, the learning process continued with a three-week online post-programme phase. This final segment was dedicated to reflection and the integration of the skills learned during the time in Malaysia. The curriculum shifted focus to advanced topics and included supervision and feedback sessions to refine the students' understanding further. The programme culminated in project presentations, where participants demonstrated their improved grasp of clinical practices and their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
The outcomes of the VC-UOC Outbound Student Mobility programme highlight the immense value of experiential learning in higher education. Participants reported improved understanding of psychology practices, increased confidence in handling real-world challenges, and enhanced competencies in vital soft skills such as communication and empathy. By fostering teamwork and mentorship between the students and staff, the internship successfully created a collaborative environment that supported professional growth. This initiative stands as a testament to ÃÜÌÒÊÓƵ’s commitment to providing comprehensive, global learning opportunities that prepare our students for successful futures in the field of psychology.
