Masters Degrees (Health Psychology)

Why Surrey?

Our innovative MSc Health Psychology programme applies the theories, methods and techniques of psychology to issues of health and illness.

These are integrated into the psychological processes related to the maintenance of health, the promotion of the psychological wellbeing of the physically ill, and the normal and pathological responses to ill health and stress.

Programme overview

Our MSc Health Psychology programme will equip you with a sound knowledge of theories and practical issues relevant to health psychology.

You will consider the psychological and physiological responses of the individual to ill health, as well as the social and community contexts of health-related behaviours and healthcare systems.

The programme will equip you with a sound knowledge of theories and practical issues relevant to health psychology, in addition to a solid understanding of quantitative and qualitative approaches to research.

The programme, which is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), provides the academic component (Stage One) on the route towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

Programme structure

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year and part-time over two academic years. It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

• Conducting Health Psychology Research
• Chronic Conditions
• Psychological Aspects of Health Care
• Maintaining Health Throughout the Lifespan
• Dissertation
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Aspects of Experimental Psychology
• Crafting Research: Linking Theory and Methods
• Ergonomics and Human Factors
• Psychological Neuroscience: Psychophysics and fMRI
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Health Psychology
• Psychology of Sustainable Development
• Key Questions in Environmental Psychology: People & Places
• Contemporary Health Psychology and Professional Practice

Educational aims of the programme

The aims of the programme are:

• To provide students with advanced knowledge and understanding of theory and practice in Health Psychology in accordance with the 15 competence requirements pertaining to Stage 1 of the British Psychological Society criteria for achieving Chartered Status in Health Psychology
• To train students in the informed and systematic application of the research-practitioner involving problem analysis and formulation, intervention design and evaluation
• To enable students to harness relevant theory and evidence in the integrated formulation of a wide range of commonly encountered health problems and issues
• To produce students equipped with the basic interpersonal, technical and creative skills required for the effective analysis and formulation of health problems, and for the effective design, implementation and evaluation of health interventions
• To prepare students for professional work pursued in a highly responsible, self-regulated, self- efficacious and politically sensitive fashion
• To facilitate self-reflection in support of personal and professional development via constructive feedback

Programme learning outcomes

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas: 

Knowledge and understanding

Students will gain knowledge and understanding of the following:

• Health psychology as an applied science
• The relevance of theory to professional practice
• Theory and evidence pertaining to the core areas as detailed by the british psychological society: context and perspectives in health psychology, epidemiology in health psychology, biological mechanisms of health and disease, health-related behaviour, health-related cognitions, individual differences, stress, chronic illness/disability, lifespan, gender and crosscultural perspectives, health care contexts, applications of health psychology, research methods, empirical research project, measurement issues and professional issues
• Basic and advanced research design and methods of investigation (qualitative and quantitative), data analysis principles and techniques
• The contemporary economic and political context of health care work
• Place and value of health psychology within an interdisciplinary framework

Intellectual / cognitive skills

Students will be able to:

• Critically assess and comment on both published and unpublished sources of research and commentary on health psychology issues
• Critically weigh up the contributions and limitations of health psychology in addressing various problems and issues
• Analyse and theoretically formulate various problem scenarios and issues pertinent to the practice of health psychology using a range of models and theories consistent with the principle of integrative practice
• Design, conduct and evaluate health psychology research and researchbased health psychology interventions
• Analyse and take into consideration the economic and political context of a health problem or issue in the process of designing and implementing tailormade interventions
• Reflect on particular case examples (hypothetical and real) with a view to informing theory development/elaboration in an iterative fashion

Professional practical skills

Students will have the skills to:

• Select, design, implement and evaluate a wide range of research techniques pertinent to research and research-based practice in health psychology
• Acquire some preliminary skill in designing research-based health interventions
• Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data in a competent and critical manner
• Present/communicate their work in a professional manner for both academic, non-academic and business audiences, in both written and verbal (one-to-one, group) formats
• Apply problem-solving strategy and techniques
• Prioritise work, multi-task and manage time under pressure

Key / transferable skills

Students will be able to:

• Communicate ideas, principles, theories and problem formulations by oral, written and visual means
• Elicit high quality information and data from field sources
• Operate within a problem-solving research-based practitioner framework
• Conduct oneself in a professional (accountable, responsible), self-regulated and constructively critical fashion
• Use interpersonal and social skills as appropriate
• Apply analytical skill in a problem solving context
• Use information technology
• Pursue continuous improvement via self-reflection and other forms of professional and personal development activity

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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MSc Health Psychology provides an advanced training in fundamental theoretical, methodological and empirical areas of Health Psychology. The course addresses key contemporary themes within health psychology such as the psychosocial models of disease and contemporary methodological approaches to health psychology research the development and evaluation of health interventions

UCLan’s postgraduate Health Psychology is a British Psychology Society-accredited postgraduate professional training course. It fulfils Stage I postgraduate training requirements in health psychology. In conjunction with Stage II postgraduate training, it equips you for practice as a Registered Health Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council and eligibility for Chartered status with the British Psychological Society.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

The course is based in the School of Psychology, housed in the purpose-built Darwin Building. This building offers specialist teaching and research facilities, including Sport and Exercise Psychology Laboratories, Health Psychology Suite, Cognitive Psychology Laboratories, Brain Imaging Laboratory, Video Observation Suite, Biomechanics Laboratory, and Sport Physiology Laboratory. The building also includes a state-of-the-art lecture theatre, teaching and computer rooms.

Teaching is delivered primarily in small interactive sessions. Assessment is achieved through a combination of coursework assignments (essays, reports, statistical exercises, presentations) and research project.

OPPORTUNITIES

This is Part One of a two-stage postgraduate training in Health Psychology leading to Registration as a Health Psychologist with the HCPC and Chartered status with the BPS. Registered Health Psychologists work in academic and health settings, teaching students and health professionals, research, assessing patients, managing clinical interventions, informing health promotion and public health policy.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Commended by the Division of Health Psychology Training Committee (DHPTC), this course has been recognised for its excellence in handling the core curriculum, investment in the infrastructure for health psychology research, very high level of student satisfaction, and for the enthusiasm of the teaching team.

MSc Health Psychology provides an advanced training in fundamental theoretical, methodological and empirical areas of Health Psychology. The course addresses key contemporary themes within health psychology such as the psychosocial models of disease (eg the link between stress and heart disease), the development and evaluation of health interventions (eg smoking cessation or nutritional education), and contemporary methodological approaches to health psychology research (eg salivary hormone assessment of stress, auditing daily life stress, advanced methods in research design). A substantial component of the course is the advanced research project. You are encouraged to develop your expertise in an area of special interest under the supervision of a member of the course team whose research experience complements your interests.

As part of the professional training route for Registered Health Psychologists, the MSc in Health Psychology will develop your expertise in key health psychology competencies, and equip you to work in a range of academic and clinical settings. The training will prepare you to apply psychology research/methodologies in the prevention and management of disease, the promotion of health behaviours, the identification of risk factors for disease, the assessment of health care systems, or the development of health policy. This course is divided into three single-module courses, two half-module courses, one double-module course, and a three-module research dissertation. Two-thirds of the course is devoted to advancing students' knowledge in the core curriculum areas identified by the BPS. The remaining third is comprised of the advanced research project, an opportunity to conduct a major piece of empirical work in an area of special interest, and an exercise which gives the student the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

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Health psychologists apply their knowledge of psychology and health to understand illness and promote health and wellbeing. They aim to enhance psychological and emotional outcomes for individuals who are ill or who have a disability.

Course details

They develop healthcare policy and work to improve the healthcare system.There is an urgent need to produce graduates who have experience of an interdisciplinary approach and who can apply both their academic knowledge to understand and contribute to the development of topics in health psychology as well as their practical skills to enhance practices such as stress and pain management in clinical health contexts. Furthermore, skills acquired by postgraduate psychological researchers are needed to promote evidence-based practice in healthcare.

The health psychology programme at Teesside presents a coherent programme of study which, at the same time, reflects the major debates and produces graduates who can creatively and innovatively contribute to the development of their field. The programme encourages you to develop your own interests within health psychology and to explore how health psychologists can work within these specialist areas. Health psychologists work in a variety of settings including the NHS, universities, private practice, health-related organisations, within communities and schools.

Professional accreditation

The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society and provides Stage 1 practitioner training, a pre-requisite for Stage II training in Health Psychology and Chartered Psychologist status.

What you study

The course comprises six core modules that aim to develop your knowledge of how psychology can be employed to facilitate and protect health, and develop your ability to effect change and suggest alternatives in healthcare provision.

You will explore current issues in health psychology, and gain transferable and practical skills to facilitate progression in the field of health psychology. Supported by a research methods team with expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methods, you will critically evaluate the nature and practice of research in health psychology, study research ethics and integrity and systematic reviewing, and develop skills in advanced research design and analysis.

The programme aims to develop writing and presentation skills that are transferable to practice, including conference presenting and writing for publication. Throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to think critically and reflect upon your skills development. Emphasis is given to the study of clinical and professional skills and you will be equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enable effective communication with patients and health professionals. You will explore our range of physiological measures, have an opportunity to practice assessment techniques and will gain knowledge of interventions including mindfulness, guided imagery and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Opportunities are provided for you to gain work experience in healthcare practice as well as to work alongside academic staff to conduct health psychology research and evaluation. The programme has strong links to organisations providing a range of volunteering opportunities as well as external agencies, including the NHS and within the public health sector.

Modules
-Applied Research Methods
-Clinical and Professional Skills in Health Psychology
-Current Topics in Health Psychology
-Health Psychology in Context
-Interventions in Health Psychology
-Research Project

Modules offered may vary.

Teaching

You learn by knowledge and skills acquisition through directive teaching, group discussions, independent exploration and examination of academic resources. You will work with project data, review professional practice scenarios, and will have an opportunity to present a poster at our annual Teesside University Psychology Conference.

The course is delivered by a team of experts with wide-ranging research, consulting and practice expertise. There are also contributions from practitioners working in the fields of research, consultancy, and NHS practice.

Staff areas of specialism include: breast cancer, complementary and alternative therapies, neurological conditions, doctor-patient communications, psychosocial interventions and sexual health. The team has close links with the Psychology Research Unit within the Social Futures Institute (SoFI) and with AskFuse, The Centre for Translational Research in Public Health.

A range of assessment methods is used, from traditional essays and examinations to a critical review, poster presentation, and a video of you conducting a stress management intervention. You will develop a research proposal including a mini systematic review and will reflect on your skills and development. Your final research project is written in the style of a research article.
Previous students have conducted their final project research on topics including:
-The male pill
-Quality of life and the utility of a guided imagery intervention for individuals with motor neurone disease
-Subject and neural indicators of health-related anxiety as a consequence of using the internet
-Experiences of being a mother with epilepsy
-The effectiveness of weight loss management groups
-Stress management
-Chronic disease

Employability

After Stage 1, you can become a Chartered Psychologist by successfully completing Stage 2 training in Health Psychology. This will confer eligibility to apply for registration with the HCPC and use the protected title of ‘Health Psychologist’.

The course team includes experienced supervisors of the British Psychological Society Qualification in Health Psychology (QHP Stage 2). The MSc programme additionally provides you with the skills to pursue a PhD and the course team have the expertise to supervise a broad range of health psychology topics.

Following the MSc, our students frequently progress to a PhD, undertake the QHP Stage 2 and obtain posts within academia, the NHS, and public health services.

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-Develop your skills to critically evaluate the current knowledge, theory and evidence base relevant to health psychology.
Equip you with the skills and capabilities relevant to progression to health psychology practice.
-Develop your skills to use a range of techniques and research methods applicable to psychological enquiry.
-Enable you to apply relevant ethical, legal and professional practice frameworks and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
-Develop your ability to communicate effectively (verbally and non-verbally) with colleagues, research supervisors and a wider audience.
-Enable you to demonstrate an ability to disseminate work appropriately in a range of written and oral formats.
-Equip you with the conceptual understanding, skills and knowledge to critically reflect on and synthesise all of the above to inform your developing professional identity as a trainee health psychologist.

Course content

The MSc in Health Psychology is awarded on the successful completion of the following modules:
-Core Issues in Health Psychology
-Psychology Research Methods
-Communication Issues in Health Care Settings
-Impact and Experience of Long-term Conditions
-Applications of Health Psychology
-Dissertation

These modules cover the core curriculum of health psychology required by the BPS for Stage One professional training.

Staffordshire University Masters Program
The MSc in Health Psychology operates within the general framework for the University Modular Masters Programme. To obtain an MSc in Health Psychology you will have to complete modules worth 180 credits. This programme of study normally takes 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time to complete. It is also possible to obtain a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Psychology following the completion of taught modules worth 60 credits, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Psychology having completed taught modules worth 120 credits.

Full time students attend weekly sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Part time students attend on Thursdays in the first year, and Tuesdays in the second year.

Employment opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Health Psychology go on to work in a range of settings such as: research assistantships, trainee psychologists, systematic reviewers, stop-smoking advisors, IAPT practitioners, and PhD studentships.

Staffordshire University also offers a Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology which provides Stage Two professional training in Health Psychology with full-time and part-time modes of study.

Other admission requirements

Applicants who have not completed their degree at a recognised UK university must obtain Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (BPS) and include evidence of this with their application. Applicants whose first language is not English must have achieved 7.0 or above on all components of the IELTS and provide evidence of this with their application.

If you do not meet our entry criteria: If you have a BSc Hons in psychology at a 2.2 level and recent clinical experience or other relevant qualifications you may be eligible to register for the certificate in Health Psychology, with the potential to progress to the MSc. Please contact Dr Amy Burton [email protected] to discuss your options.

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-Develop your skills to critically evaluate the current knowledge, theory and evidence base relevant to health psychology.
-Equip you with the skills and capabilities relevant to progression to health psychology practice.
-Develop your skills to use a range of techniques and research methods applicable to psychological enquiry.
-Enable you to apply relevant ethical, legal and professional practice frameworks and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
-Develop your ability to communicate effectively (verbally and non-verbally) with colleagues, research supervisors and a wider audience.
-Enable you to demonstrate an ability to disseminate work appropriately in a range of written and oral formats.
-Equip you with the conceptual understanding, skills and knowledge to critically reflect on and synthesise all of the above to inform your developing professional identity as a trainee health psychologist.

Course content

The MSc in Health Psychology is awarded on the successful completion of the following modules:
-Core Issues in Health Psychology
-Psychology Research Methods
-Communication Issues in Health Care Settings
-Impact and Experience of Long-term Conditions
-Applications of Health Psychology
-Dissertation

These modules cover the core curriculum of health psychology required by the BPS for Stage One professional training.

Staffordshire University Masters Program
The MSc in Health Psychology operates within the general framework for the University Modular Masters Programme. To obtain an MSc in Health Psychology you will have to complete modules worth 180 credits. This programme of study normally takes 12 months full-time or 24 months part-time to complete. It is also possible to obtain a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Psychology following the completion of taught modules worth 60 credits, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Psychology having completed taught modules worth 120 credits.

Employment opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Health Psychology go on to work in a range of settings such as: research assistantships, trainee psychologists, systematic reviewers, stop-smoking advisors, IAPT practitioners, and PhD studentships.

Staffordshire University also offers a Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology which provides Stage Two professional training in Health Psychology with full-time and part-time modes of study.

Other admission requirements

Applicants who have not completed their degree at a recognised UK university must obtain Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (BPS) and include evidence of this with their application. Applicants whose first language is not English must have achieved 7.0 or above on all components of the IELTS and provide evidence of this with their application.

If you do not meet our entry criteria: If you have a BSc Hons in psychology at a 2.2 level and recent clinical experience or other relevant qualifications you may be eligible to register for the certificate in Health Psychology, with the potential to progress to the MSc. Please contact Dr Amy Burton [email protected] to discuss your options.

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Course Overview

​Health psychology focuses on the roles of psychology, biology and social or environmental factors on health and health related behaviour. Health psychologists promote healthier lifestyles and seek to improve well-being by understanding the impact that health related thoughts, feelings and behaviour can have on the individual. Health strategy has been shifting from the treatment of disease to the maintenance of health and prevention of illness. This is particularly important in the Welsh context given that self-reported 'good health' is lower in Wales compared to other areas of the UK (ONS 2011), with a high level of risky behaviours (Welsh Assembly Government, 2004).

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/health/courses/Pages/Health-Psychology---MSc-.aspx

​Course Content​​

This MSc aims to produce high quality graduates that are in a good position to improve the health of and well-being of people in Wales and beyond by using specific psychological knowledge and skills. The programme is specifically designed with future employability in mind and provides a student centred approach to preparing graduates for future training and careers in health psychology.

Students will complete the following six taught modules along with a dissertation, which consists of an independent piece of research. Placement style dissertations are offered in external settings so that students, who choose to, are able to build experience in the type of settings in which they might later find employment.

- Research Methods and Design:
Equips the student with the qualitative and quantitative research skills necessary to undertake masters level research.

- Biopsychosocial Issues in Health:
Explores the impact of biopsychosocial factors in health

- Health Psychology and the Health Psychologist:
Provides a critical account of the application of health psychology in the community and workplace

- Changing Health Behaviour:
Critically evaluates psychological theories of behavioural change

- Chronic Illness, Stress and Pain:
Critically evaluates theories and models of chronic disease, stress, pain and their management.

- Communication in the Health Care Context:
Develops the students' understanding of effective communication strategies.​

Learning & Teaching​

​The MSc Health Psychology programme includes some formal lectures, but the majority of the programme is taught interactively, with students actively involved in each session. Group work, seminars, presentations and practical workshops all help to engage students and ensure they are developing the knowledge and skills required for stage 1 training in health psychology and also develop the confidence to use what they learn to the benefit of themselves and others.

The MSc Health Psychology programme is taught on two days each week, for full time students, and on one day each week for part time students. Much of the teaching takes place in the Psychology Postgraduate and Research Centre (PARC) which provides computers that students can use for private study and also a social space and kitchen area for students to make use of. PARC also includes a number of cubicles with software and other technology for use in research.

All of the course materials for the Programme are made available via the Virtual Learning Environment, Moodle, there is also a Facebook page and Twitter site (@cardiffhealthps) for the programme.

All students are allocated a personal tutor during their first week on the programme. Personal tutors will initiate a meeting with the students during the first term and will also invite students to come and see them with the PDP (Personal Development Portfolio) folders during term 2. In addition students are more than welcome to make an appointment to see their personal tutor, module leader or programme director whenever they wish. The programme team all adopt an open door policy and welcome students to come and talk to them about any issues related to the course or their welfare at any time.

The MSc Health Psychology programme at Cardiff Met has a partner programme at City Unity College in Athens. It may be possible for students to engage in a visit to our partner programme, to share workshops alongside their Greek counterparts. Last year the university funded 80% of the cost of the trip for 6 students from the MSc Health Psychology programme, and we are hoping that this funding will be available again for the coming year.
The MSc Health Psychology programme is accredited by the BPS and as such constitutes stage 1 training in health psychology. Talks about careers in health psychology, and stage 2 training will be included, as part of the programme and graduates from the programme will provide information about their own experiences and career development.

Assessment

The MSc is assessed by a range of different coursework assignments including literature reviews, research reports, essays, presentations and posters. No exams are used in the assessment for this programme. Assessments are designed to help students develop the skills they will require during their future careers.

Employability & Careers​

An MSc in Health Psychology is the first step (stage one) towards Chartered Psychology status for students who are eligible to hold the Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS). The MSc in Health Psychology will provide the knowledge base and research skills, which will underpin stage two of the process towards Chartership with the BPS (two years of supervised practice). Completion of stage two with the BPS also confers eligibility to become a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registered Health Psychologist. All practitioner psychologists are regulated by the HCPC. Health psychologists work in all areas relevant to health, illness and health care delivery.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships

Find out how to apply here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply

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Behaviour and social context can have a significant impact on health and it is the role of the health psychologist to examine this impact and identify any links between the two.

The Health Psychology MSc provides a thorough grounding in the theories, practice and application of health psychology.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

This course has been developed with your future employability as its focus. By choosing to study at Coventry you will benefit from:
-A focus on teaching health psychology as a discipline with real-world application
-Guest speakers who can illustrate the variety of career paths open to health psychologists
-Use of a broad range of assessment methods
-Strong links with the Applied Research Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions
-Student collaboration with researchers in the Centre in Health and Lifestyle Interventions on their dissertations: some have even gone on to work there as researchers after graduation
-Opportunities for Stage Two training via independent production of a portfolio and British Psychological Society examination;
the high profile of Health Psychology at Coventry University nationally

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society. Fulfilling the Stage 1 requirements, counts towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and obtaining Full Membership of the Division of Health Psychology with the British Psychological Society. Graduates of the programme who go on to successfully complete Stage 2 of the qualification in Health Psychology will be eligible to apply for registration with the UK Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

A distinctive feature of the course at Coventry University is the focus on the practical application of health psychology. We like to teach Health Psychology as a discipline with real-world application, not just as a dry academic subject. This is exemplified by the ‘Professional Skills’ module which is mainly taught by practitioners who currently work in applied health psychology settings.

Our guest speakers help to illustrate the variety of career paths open to health psychologists and, as some are graduates of our course, this also highlights the success of our graduates who have gone on to work in careers relating to health psychology.

The course is divided into four theory modules covering the key areas of the British Psychological Society Knowledge Base for Health Psychology, a module on Advanced Research Methods in Psychology, a module on Professional Practice and a dissertation.

HOW WILL THIS COURSE ENHANCE MY CAREER PROSPECTS?

Graduates go on to further related study, eg Stage Two Health Psychology training, PhD or DClin. Employment options chosen by past graduates include jobs directly related to health psychology such as health promotion, research in health psychology or work within a healthcare setting.

GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAMME

To prepare students for the challenges of the global employment market and to strengthen and develop their broader personal and professional skills Coventry University has developed a unique Global Leaders Programme.

The objectives of the programme, in which postgraduate and eligible undergraduate students can participate, is to provide practical career workshops and enable participants to experience different business cultures.

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Promoting the scientific study of health, illness and healthcare to improve health outcomes for patients and the public.

Who is it for?

The course is for highly motivated students who have intellectual curiosity to learn about complex problems of health and healthcare and the ambition to conduct research that may lead to a solution to these problems. The programme is especially suited to students who want to go on to do doctoral studies – either a DPsych Health Psychology (for practitioner training) or a PhD (for research training).

The Health Psychology course is also for those who have an undergraduate degree that is accredited by the British Psychological Society. If you are an international student and would like to undertake a Masters degree in this subject but do not have the BPS accreditation, we offer the MSc Psychology and Health as an alternative programme (with identical modules) for students who have not achieved the Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society.

Objectives

Health psychology explores the psychological and behavioural processes that influence the development of illness, the promotion of health, and the delivery of healthcare through rigorous research that feeds into evidence-based practice.

Teaching at City promotes the scientist-practitioner model in which research influences how we practice, while allowing our experiences in practice to shape the research questions we ask.

We recognise that great research will not make a difference to people’s lives unless the insights feed into evidence-based practice. You will therefore learn how to make research evidence accessible to help maximise its impact. Taught by a team of leading research-active academics, who are members of the Centre for Health Services Research (CHSR), the MSc Health Psychology programme is designed to give you the foundations that will propel you to an exciting career in the discipline.

Here are some examples of the kinds of questions the course poses:
-How can we help people cope with a diagnosis?
-What are the main challenges facing individuals living with long-term conditions?
-What is psychological theory and how can this be used to understand health and illness behaviours?
-How can we make complex interventions more effective by using theory and empirical evidence?

Academic facilities

City University has recently opened the TECS Lab, a dedicated ‘smart home’, to showcase some of the exciting technologies that are being implemented around the UK to support patients with long-term conditions and complex health and social care needs.

This is a one-of-a-kind resource that is already being used for teaching and research purposes. You will visit the TECS Lab in the spring term and the resource will be available to conduct your own dissertation research on a related topic. As part of the University of London you can also become a member of Senate House Library for free with your student ID card.

Teaching and learning

The course uses a range of teaching methods including classroom teaching, seminars and workshops. You will be assessed through a varied combination of formats throughout the programme including coursework, examination, a diary component, online discussion forums and a significant piece of empirical research.

The assessment for the Doctorate includes:
-A reflective report (3,000 words) detailing how supervised practice has enabled you to fulfil the generic professional competence.
-A report (1,000 words) summarising the involvement of service users and/or carers in your training.
-Log of experiences that enabled you to gain competence in each component of all core units over the equivalent of two years’ full-time supervised practice (this should include a record of your attendance at core CPD workshops)
-A case study (3,000 words excluding appendices) with supporting evidence in appendices.
-A contract and working agreement conditions document (3,000 words, excluding appendices) with supporting evidence in appendices.
-Two teaching and training case studies (1 x 1,000 & 1 x 2,000 words, excluding appendices) with supporting evidence in appendices. One of the populations must be health care professionals and an observer’s report (500 words)
-A case study describing the process of conducting a psychological intervention that has been implemented through face-to-face work with an individual client (3000 words, excluding appendices) with supporting evidence in appendices.
-A case study (2,000 words, excluding appendices) describing the process of conducting a psychological intervention that has been delivered through a medium other than face-to-face with an individual client with a reflective report on delivering this intervention included in the appendices.
-A research thesis (approximately 15,000 words, excluding appendices) to be written to a standard acceptable for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals.
-A systematic review (6,000 words excluding appendices) to be written to a standard acceptable for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals.

You will also be able to learn from our on-site TECS lab. This is a dedicated smart home equipped with tele-health and tele-care applications and an adjacent monitoring system.

The purpose of the TECS lab is to enable researchers to monitor long-term conditions, and use technology to track an individual’s health in real time. For example seat and bed occupancy sensors enable health psychologists to monitor physical movement and intervene when routine behaviours are disrupted.

Modules

The programme consists of eight compulsory modules and all the teaching takes place in the first two terms. In term one you will be introduced to behavioural medicine, lifestyle, gender and culture, theoretical foundations of health psychology and research design and statistics. In the second term you study understanding and managing long term conditions, developing complex interventions, professional practice and contextual issues in health psychology and advanced research design and statistics. The third term is dedicated to the dissertation.

You may have the opportunity to interact directly with patients or healthcare professionals at the dissertation stage of this Masters degree. You will be conducting your own independent research and this may, for example, involve interviewing patients or professionals about a particular subject, or delivering behaviour change interventions.

To become a qualified researcher and practitioner, you will need to be able to understand and critique published research and to understand practitioner issues, so you can conduct your own research from scratch. At City we will encourage you to conduct research on the front line working on projects that require ethical approval, where you are engaging with real people so you can have a direct impact on their lives.

Core modules
-Theoretical foundations of health psychology (15 credits)
-Behavioural medicine (15 credits)
-Understanding and managing long-term conditions (15 credits)
-Lifespan, gender & culture (15 credits)
-Developing complex interventions (15 credits)
-Professional and contextual Issues in health psychology (15 credits)
-Introduction to research design & statistics (15 credits)
-Advanced research design & statistics (15 credits)
-Dissertation (60 credits)

Career prospects

Health psychologists work in academia as researchers and within the NHS and the wider healthcare sector. The nature of the work means you will be trying to influence public health policy in terms of the way that health care is practised. You will also be evaluating how health care professionals do their work while adhering to the best clinical standards.

As a UK student, because the Health Psychology MSc is accredited, it is known as Stage 1 of the standard training in healthcare psychology. By successfully completing this course you will be able to move on to Stage 2 training (a doctoral level qualification in health psychology). This leads to becoming a fully recognised health psychologist whereby you can apply for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Full membership of the Division of Health Psychology means you will also be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Chartered Health Psychologist. You can only use the protected title ‘Health Psychologist’ by registering with the HCPC, the statutory regulator.

Graduates of the MSc in Health Psychology and MSc in Psychology & Health take a variety of career paths across the NHS and wider public sector. Here are some examples of the kinds of roles our graduates go on to do:
-A PhD student studying a Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology.
-A research assistant in higher education, NHS or the private sector.
-An assistant psychologist in an applied setting.
-An NHS or third sector healthcare professional, such as a smoking cessation officer, or a public health and health promotion practitioner.

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Health psychology is an exciting and growing branch of psychology that applies psychological theory and research to behaviours and beliefs related to health and illness.

Health psychologists’ interests are firmly in line with government health agendas, and include the promotion of positive health behaviours in adults and children; reducing obesity, binge drinking, smoking and stress; and increasing psychological wellbeing.

The route to Chartered Psychologist status is through the attainment of an accredited MSc Health Psychology (stage 1 training), followed by supervised professional practice (stage 2 training).

USW’s MSc Health Psychology is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as providing students with the knowledge and skills required for Stage 1 of your training in qualifying as a Chartered Psychologist and practitioner health psychologist.

The MSc Health Psychology is taught by registered practitioner health psychologists (who are also BPS Chartered) with many years of specialist teaching, research and clinical experience in a range of areas of health psychology. Specialist practitioners contribute a contemporary perspective as guest lecturers.

We have ongoing research collaborations with NHS clinicians that provide opportunities for students to have access to clinical populations for dissertation research projects and work experience placements. These currently include psychiatry liaison, pain management, eating disorders and cardiac rehabilitation.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/300-msc-health-psychology

Five BPS Commendations

The course recently received five commendations from the British Psychological Society who praised the relationships we have with external health and clinical practitioners, and the opportunities these provide to students; the programme’s development in relation to the health needs of the local and wider population in response to the priorities of the Welsh Government Department of Health; the high level of student support; the emphasis on Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to prepare students for the reflective skills they will need in practice; and the opportunities provided to students by Psychology Plus (employability scheme).

Work Experience Opportunities

We have ongoing research collaborations with four Welsh Health Boards and NHS clinicians that provide opportunities for students to have access to clinical populations for dissertation research projects and work experience placements.

Pawb, our on-campus clinic offers a wide range of psychological services to the public. Students will be able to benefit from supervised voluntary experience and in-house research opportunities.

What you will study

You will study the following modules:
- Contexts and Perspectives in Health Psychology
- Research Methods in Health Psychology: Measurement & Professional Issues* Applications of Health Psychology
- Health-related Cognitions and Behaviour
- Stress, Health and Illness
- A Lifespan Perspective on Health, Illness & Disability
- Independent Research Dissertation
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Learning and teaching methods

Teaching includes lectures, seminars and workshops, some of which will be student-led. There will be a variety of assessment activities such as examinations, essays, case study analysis, poster presentations and the design of a health promotion campaign.

The MSc Health Psychology provides students with opportunities for work experience in the School of Psychology’s own Psychology and Well-Being Clinic (PAWB Wales), in addition to research projects with our NHS partners on issues such as pain management, eating disorders and cardiac rehabilitation.

As well as our excellent dedicated teaching facilities, the University has recently invested in a new clinic facility that offers a wide range of psychological services to the public. The Psychology and Well-Being Clinic Wales (PAWB Wales) services include play therapy, health psychology, sport psychology, occupational psychology and behaviour analysis. Through the clinic, MSc Health Psychology students and trainee practitioners can gain access to real life training opportunities.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

The Sc Health Psychology provides current, up-to-date theory, knowledge and skills related to therapeutic play and enables graduates to work as therapeutic play specialists in educational, healthcare or social care settings.

In addition, an understanding of play is key to current government education initiatives and course content addresses the Welsh Government’s Foundation Phase and other early years educational curricula. Hence this award offers excellent career development in the field of play, whether as a teacher or education specialist, play worker or play development officer, nursery manager, or work in health or social services.

Assessment methods

Assessment uses a variety of methods, including essays, diaries, research reports, presentations, portfolios of observations and clinical notes. There are opportunities for work placements.

Facilities

As an MSc Health Psychology student, you’lll have access to the latest learning technologies, facilities and equipment, including excellent designated facilities.

These include observation and interview rooms equipped with two-way mirror, CCTV and audio and allow research and interview practice sessions to be conducted and recorded onto DVD. We also have a custom-built air-conditioned PC laboratory which provides access to specialist software for running psychology experiments and conducting careers guidance interviews. More specialist equipment is also available in our cognitive suite and more details about this are given below.

The cognitive psychology suite houses specialist psychology equipment. This includes eye tracking equipment which is capable of studying the eye movements of individuals whilst they complete cognitive tasks. The suite includes EEG (electroencephalogram) and ECG (electrocardiogram) facilities for recording electrical activity in the heart and scalp. There is also a driving simulator which is currently being used by postgraduate students to complete a study which examines the effects of stressors on driving performance.

As well as our excellent dedicated teaching facilities, the School of Psychology offers a wide range of psychological services to the general public. These are offered through our new PAWB Wales clinic facility and include play therapy, behaviour analysis, health and sport psychology interventions. The clinic activities support our wide range of postgraduate opportunities and undergraduate students can also get involved in some of the clinic’s work.

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Health Psychology plays a key role in improving the health and wellbeing of the population. This course, based in the heart of London, was one of the first Masters in Health Psychology and has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) since 1999. It includes an innovative portfolio of assessments geared to developing transferable skills, and relating directly to the world of work. The course also provides the opportunity to gain work experience and apply your knowledge in a health psychology setting, whilst considering future career plans. The course is taught by a core team of enthusiastic and supportive research-active staff, with collaborative links to external institutions in London and beyond. Successful completion of the course (Stage 1) is a prerequisite for the further training (Stage 2) to become a health psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC).

In addition to the core taught programme, we work with a range of practitioners to provide additional professional training in areas such as resilience, coaching and clinical practice.

Course content

The course will give you an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and applied bases of health, illness and disease. The main aim is to help you to develop the theoretical and methodological skills essential for conducting independent research and applying health psychology in practice.

We provide a coherent programme of study covering the content, methods and application of health psychology. In particular, the course emphasises the importance of an evidence-based approach to health psychology, and develops the core skills needed for Stage 2 training. Within the core modules, there is considerable flexibility for you to choose particular areas of study of interest.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Core modules include two introductory modules:
-HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY: A LIFESPAN DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVE
-THEORIES AND PERSPECTIVES IN HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY

Followed by:
-DATA HANDLING AND RESEARCH METHODS FOR APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY
-HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY IN PRACTICE
-INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES, HEALTH, STRESS AND ILLNESS
-RESEARCH BASED PROJECT: HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY
-SPECIALIST TOPICS FOR APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY

Option module
-WORK EXPERIENCE IN A PSYCHOLOGICAL SETTING

Associated careers

The course is a prerequisite for those wishing to pursue Stage 2 training leading to Registration with the HPC as a Health Psychologist. However, it also serves as a precursor to those wishing to pursue a PhD in Psychology, and other areas of applied psychology such as clinical or counselling. The majority of our graduates work in the health-related professions.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

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This Liverpool John Moores University's MSc in Health Psychology meets the Stage 1 training requirement for BPS accreditation. The course has a strong emphasis on psychological investigation and exploring ethical issues.

-Course available to study full time (1 year) and part time (2 years)
-Fully accredited by the British Psychological Society for Stage 1 Training in Health Psychology
-Academic team includes Health Psychologists registered with the BPS and HCPC and RAPPS Approved Supervisors for trainees continuing onto the BPS Stage 2 Qualification in Health Psychology or the LJMU Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology
-Teaching is via small groups which means you can expect a high level of academic and pastoral support set within a friendly and informal atmosphere
-Access to world-class facilities in the award-winning Tom Reilly Building

The primary goal of health psychology as a discipline is to contribute to the understanding of how physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual factors influence health and illness within a sociocultural framework.
Recent advances in psychological, medical, and physiological research have led to new ways of thinking about health and illness. This conceptualises health and illness as the product of a combination of factors. The research includes: biological characteristics such as genetic predisposition; behavioural factors such as lifestyle, stress, health beliefs; and social conditions such as cultural influences, family relationships and social support.

The specific programme aims include:

providing an academically rigorous framework through which students can study scientifically the psychological processes involved in health, illness and health care with reference to the application of psychology for:
the promotion and maintenance of health
the analysis and improvement of the health care system and health policy formation
the prevention of illness and the enhancement of wellbeing in those affected by illness or disability
promoting students’ awareness of the range of applications of health psychology
providing students with a qualification which meets stage 1 of the BPS’s training towards Chartered Psychologist status

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Empirical Project
Long-Term Conditions
Research Skills and Methodology for Health Psychology
Analysis for Health Psychology
Fundamental Issues in Health Psychology
Health Psychology: Context and Applications
Stress, Health and Coping
Psychosocial Factors and Health

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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Health psychology can be defined as the study of psychological processes and their application to health, illness and health care. The Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology programme provides supervision to enable students to develop skills in research, teaching, professional skills and consultancy. The programme runs for a minimum of two years for full-time students, and a minimum of four years for part-time students. The award follows closely the framework for Stage 2 professional training in health psychology, which is set by the Division of Health Psychology of the British Psychological Society.

Graduates from this award gain Stage 2 accreditation towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and eligibility to apply to register as a Health Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The programme has been designed to equip students with D-level skills in research, teaching, consultancy, professional practice and behaviour change interventions. The qualification provides a guarantee for employers and clients of competence in core aspects of health psychology and professional practice, including research, consultancy, and teaching skills.

After enrolment, you will take part in a two-day induction programme. This is designed to cover all modules, and will introduce you to the competencies required on the course, and to the University facilities. This will be followed by a supportive programme of workshops which runs throughout the year, covering all five competencies:
-Advanced Research Methods: You will be guided in how to independently, critically review research literature, design a study, collect and analyse data, and interpret and report results.
-Consultancy Skills in Health Psychology: You will be guided in how to conduct consultancy in health psychology and related arenas.
-Teaching in Health Psychology: In this module you will develop your teaching skills, enabling you to teach two different types of students, one of which must be health care professionals.
-Professional Competence in Health Psychology: You will be mentored through the process of fostering self-development in professional practice, implementation of systems to ensure high professional standards in professional practice, guidance in providing feedback to clients, and team-working skills.
-Psychological Interventions: You will be facilitated in developing your awareness/understanding of and ability to utilize good practices in designing, implementing and evaluating interventions aimed at changing health behaviours.

Other admission requirements

The deadline for applications is usually the end of June each year (for the Sept start). Please contact the Faculty of Sciences Recruitment Centre for more information. Places are limited due to supervisor availability.

All students will be interviewed before being admitted on to the programme. You must convince staff at interview that you have a suitable idea for the empirical study which links in with current staff research interests, and that you have access to relevant research populations for placement learning.

You will be required to have a DBS check.

Students whose first language is not English must have achieved Level 7 on all parts of IELTS.

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If you have an undergraduate degree in psychology, you can benefit from this flexible online Health Psychology Masters degree. This course provides you with stage one training.

Our online MSc Health Psychology degree covers the theoretical and professional issues in health psychology and provides excellent preparation for many roles within the NHS, as well as for further health psychology stage two training programmes. And since you’ll cover the latest research in this field and undertake your own research, it will also equip you to move onto a career in health psychology research or a PhD and ultimately become a practicing Health Psychologist.

Modules to suit you

You will study modules such as Health Care in Long Term Conditions, Health Promotion and Behaviour Change, Professional Skills in Health Psychology, Psychology Health and Illness and more.

Tutors that are experts in practice and research

You'll be taught by our team of chartered, registered and research active psychologists, who have expert knowledge of health psychology theory, practice and research. You won't just be looking at the theoretical side of health psychology therefore; you'll also be exploring the issues faced by today's health psychology professionals. Their comprehensive knowledge and professional experience will really help you learn. And their strong research profile means that you'll be part of a vibrant department at the forefront of developments in health psychology.

Flexible study to fit around your lifestyle

Studying online gives you the flexibility to study at the most convenient time and place for you. Course modules still operate within a fixed semester but you can choose to study during the day, in the evenings or at the weekend rather than having to attend fixed lectures. If you are employed full time or bringing up a family, this flexibility is invaluable.

Start in September, January or May

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Interest in health psychology is growing rapidly among psychologists and other health service and occupational health professionals mostly thanks to the shifting emphasis in provision and governance of healthcare in the UK, and changes to the NHS' organisation and mission.

As a health psychologist, you'll provide valuable insights to a range of activities, and your skills will be highly sought-after in roles across the NHS, in private practice and in the charitable sector. You may be providing psychological assessment and support in acute care situations, managing the psychological care and rehabilitation of people with chronic illnesses, or getting involved in health promotion activities including smoking cessation and dietary management. There are also opportunities, after the MSc Health Psychology, to go on to academic teaching and research positions.

Key benefits

If you hold Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS), the MSc provides Stage 1 training towards Practitioner Health Psychologist status. As well as covering the BPS' core curriculum, this course has a particular emphasis on transferable practical, professional and employment-related skills, and the opportunity to gain course credit through practical work in health psychology settings.

Course detail

Psychology at UWE Bristol has particular strengths in teaching and research in the area of health psychology, and provides Masters and PhD programmes. The faculty is also home to the world-leading Centre for Appearance Research, the Centre for Health and Clinical Research, and the Centre for Understanding Social Practice as well as the Institute for Sustainability, Health and the Environment. So you'll be among experts whose knowledge and experience feeds directly into the course's taught modules and supporting resources.

Modules

• Health, Stress and Cognition (30 credits)
• Bio-psychosocial Perspectives on Health (30 credits)
• Conducting and Evaluating Psychological Research (30 credits)
• Dissertation in Psychology (45 credits)
• Applications and Professional Skills in Health Psychology (30 credits)
• Health Psychology In Action (work-based module) (15 credits)

Format

The course team is internationally recognised in health psychology, and has close links to the British Psychological Society division of health psychology, the Health and Care Professions Council, and the NHS. We pride ourselves on presenting a balance of expertise in research and practice of health psychology.

Assessment

The course uses a wide range of assessments, including poster and seminar presentations, essays, exams, article and model critiques, reflective journals and a dissertation.

Careers / Further study

Our graduates have gone on to a variety of careers in the NHS and private sectors, helping individuals, groups and wider society reap the benefits of an advanced understanding the links between psychology and health. The skills and knowledge you'll have gained through this programme will be highly sought-after, and opportunities will arise in a range of roles. For example, as a trainee Health Psychologist, as an advisor on health promotion, pain management, smoking cessation initiatives, Public Health matters and mental health issues. You can also consider roles in Medical Training, or as an academic lecturer.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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With the shifting emphasis in governance and health-related policy papers, health psychology continues to grow in popularity.

Communities are dynamic and always changing, so our understanding and support of health, wellbeing and behavioural changes needs to be considerate of all diverse groups. On our new MSc Health Psychology course, you will study a range of techniques and methods, ensuring you graduate with the skills you need to be a competent, knowledgeable health psychology practitioner.

What's covered in the course?

We will provide you with a detailed understanding of the key theoretical and applied issues in health psychology. These include the key psychological theories and applications which support behaviour change, addressing disease prevention and enhancing health and wellbeing, managing health, health promotion and health interventions, and self-reflection on your own learning and development.

Contemporary health issues will be put into context at local, national and international levels, exposing you to issues which cover the globe as well as local areas.

You’ll be taught how to submit a research ethics proposal, which will address a health issue with the use of psychology. You will also learn how to complete a mini systematic review, which will provide a rationale for your health psychology project, and how to evaluate and conduct analysis. You will also enhance your skills in communication, presentation and group work.

Why Choose Us?

-We have academics who are active in contemporary cutting-edge applied health psychology research, which will be showcased on this programme and will inspire your research interests.
-Our academics are experts in their chosen field, and have first-hand experience of working in practice, which will underpin the syllabus where the application of health psychology to practice will also be showcased.
-The option to study either full-time or part-time means you can fit your studies in alongside your personal and work commitments.
-This programme will provide you with assessment choices from selected options on each module, as well as a flexible blended learning approach which has been put into place to suit various preferences and learning patterns.

Employability

You will be taught the skills and theory you need to be successful in the health psychology industry.

We will provide workshops that’ll enable you to work as a researcher in health psychology or as an assistant psychologist working in the health sector.

We encourage you to gain voluntary work experience within the charity and health-related sectors.

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