Masters Degrees (Medical Psychology)

The master’s programme in Psychology focuses both on in-depth study of theory and on the acquisition of professional and research skills. The distinctive feature of the Leiden master’s programme is that the teaching is not restricted to only the functioning of psychological processes; these processes are always connected to their behavioural consequences, with the aim of understanding self-regulation and behavioural control. In this way, students not only develop their knowledge of psychology as a science, but also learn to apply this knowledge in order to understand practical problems and to develop effective interventions for dealing with these problems.

Profile of the master's programme in Psychology

In line with the profile of Leiden University as a research-intensive institution, the teaching programme of the master’s programme in Psychology is based on state-of-the art scientific research and maintains a strong emphasis on the acquisition of academic and research skills. Completion of the MSc degree prepares students for subsequent academic master’s degrees, including a PhD.

Objectives of the master’s programme in Psychology

The objective of the master’s programme in Psychology is to equip students with advanced training in research methods and professional skills that prepare them both for a career involving psychological research as well as for the application of scientific knowledge and methods in various professional settings. Training is provided in all relevant skills, including reviewing the relevant literature, applying theoretical knowledge to analyse practical problems, developing hypotheses and writing research proposals, designing and carrying out empirical studies, designing and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, conducting advanced statistical analyses, and presenting results and recommendations.

Specialisations

• Applied Cognitive Psychology (MSc)
• Occupational Health Psychology (MSc)
• School Psychology (MSc)
• Social and Organisational Psychology (MSc)
• Child and Adolescent Psychology (MSc)
• Clinical Neuropsychology (MSc)
• Clinical Psychology (MSc)
• Economic and Consumer Psychology (MSc)
• Health and Medical Psychology (MSc)
• Methodology and Statistics in Psychology (MSc)

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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.

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.

Course structure

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

Core modules

• Health Psychology: A Lifespan Development Perspective
• Theories and Perspectives in Health Psychology
• 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 modules

• Work Experience in a Psychological Setting

Work experience

Students can choose to undertake a work experience placement within a health related setting by taking the optional ‘work experience in a psychological setting’ module. Students will negotiate with tutors on finding a placement and arrange suitable supervision. Some recent examples of work experience opportunities include:

Hospitals: The Cassel Hospital (Personality Disorder service); The Royal Marsden Hospital (Neuro-oncology, paediatrics); Kings College (Dental Institute); Sussex Partnership Trust Children and Young Person's Mental Health Services; Great Chapel Street Medical Centre; Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore; Great Ormond Street Hospital; Mildmay Hospital; The Royal Brompton Hospital, London.

Charities: EnhanceAble (a registered charity that provides services for people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, acquired brain injuries and autism); Westminster Drug Project; Southwark Your Way (a programme that offers flexible mental health support and guidance to suit service user’s needs); Headway Hertfordshire; Mind, Hammersmith and Fulham; British Red Cross; The 240 Project (a community and activity centre in West London which works with vulnerable and excluded people); Terrence Higgins Trust; Jewish Women's Aid; Westminster Parent Mentoring project; Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Service; Women and Girls Network; NSPCC; Kith and Kids; Alzheimer's Society; Freedom from torture; The Muslim Youth Helpline.

Career path

The course is a prerequisite for those wishing to pursue Stage 2 training leading to Registration with the HCPC as a Health Psychologist. This route is only available to those who have Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the BPS. 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 psychology. The majority of our graduates work in academic or health-related professions, for example: psychology researcher or lecturer, smoking cessation advisor, chronic pain therapist, health consultant.

Graduates from the Health Psychology MSc course at the University of Westminster work at all levels and, in all areas of health and related professions. Most students go on to undertake further postgraduate training be it in research, teaching or work related training. Many alumni of the course work as HCPC registered applied psychologists including, health, counselling and clinical psychology. Others have worked to enhance their career opportunities in their chosen disciplines including Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Advertising and Recruitment. Others work as, consultants, freelancers and academics.

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The first in the world, and always on the cutting edge
Rapidly becoming one of psychology’s most transformative fields, positive psychology is the scientific study of the strengths that enable humans and organizations to flourish. Positive psychology differs from historical psychological approaches because of its unique emphasis on the empirical study of human flourishing. While the study of psychology has traditionally focused on improving the human condition by identifying and relieving what is negative in life, positive psychology complements this approach with a focus on strengthening what is positive.

The Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program at the University of Pennsylvania was the first in the world to offer a degree in this rigorous field of study. Dr. Martin Seligman, founder of the discipline of positive psychology, created the MAPP program to educate and train students at the cutting edge of the field.

Designed for working professionals
The program's hybrid model allows you to explore the theory and practice of positive psychology without relocating to Philadelphia, so you can continue working full-time. The program includes nine courses, completed during one year of full-time study during consecutive fall, spring and summer semesters. The low-residency format consists of 10 required on-site visits to the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia, where students and faculty gather for intensive weekends of learning and networking.

Structured for real-world application
Whether you are a credentialed professional seeking to transform your workplace or career, or are building a foundation for further graduate study, the MAPP curriculum allows you to apply the topics most relevant to your interests and goals. You will receive a thorough grounding in the research methods and theoretical underpinnings of positive psychology, and learn to apply its theories and perspectives within individual and organizational settings. The program culminates with an individual capstone project that advances both your professional development and the field of positive psychology itself.

Renowned faculty and passionately engaged peers
Program alumni report overwhelmingly that their favorite aspect of the program is the exceptional group of people who make up our diverse, intellectually stimulating and intensely supportive community.

Each year, approximately 40 students enroll in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program, including successful businesspeople, practicing psychologists and medical professionals, scientists, artists, life coaches, lawyers and more. They’re all gathered to study with a faculty composed of major pioneers in the field, who are also dedicated and personable teachers.

Flourishing after MAPP
Through their experiences in the Master of Applied Psychology program, students find a powerful new perspective on their workplaces, career plans and personal lives. Our students go on to incredibly diverse careers, applying what they’ve learned to transform their current workplaces or to begin new careers in consulting, teaching, business, healthcare, media and more.

We look forward to speaking with you about the exciting opportunities at MAPP and discussing how our program can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Courses and Curriculum

The Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) curriculum is designed to train you in the history, theory and research methods of positive psychology, as well as its application in professional settings.

The program consists of nine courses, completed during one year of full-time study during consecutive fall, spring and summer semesters.

During the fall semester, you will begin the program with courses that focus on the science, research and theoretical underpinnings of positive psychology, giving students a strong foundation to build on throughout the remainder of the program.
The spring semester courses offer content to help you learn how to apply positive psychology in various professional settings, including creating a plan for positive interventions in a real organization.
The capstone project, which is completed during the summer semester, allows you to integrate what you’ve learned throughout the program, and apply it in the professional or research domain most significant to you. It often serves as a stepping stone to the application of positive psychology in a particular professional domain or to further research in a specific area.
The curriculum includes the following eight classes, in addition to the capstone project:

Introduction to Positive Psychology
An introduction to the research, theory and intellectual history of positive psychology.

Research Methods and Evaluation
A methodology course exploring the valid and reliable assessment of positive emotions, character strengths and meaning in life.

Foundations of Positive Interventions
An investigation into the theoretical, empirical and experiential nature of positive interventions.

Approaches to the Good Life
An examination of four perspectives on human flourishing.

Applied Positive Interventions
A service-learning course in which students study the applied work of master positive psychology practitioners and create positive psychology applications for non-profit organizations.

Positive Psychology and Individuals
An exploration of positive psychology applications in coaching, clinical and other relational settings.

Positive Psychology and Organizations
An exploration of positive psychology, appreciative inquiry and positive organizational scholarship in traditional and social business settings.

Humanities and Human Flourishing
An exploration of integrating culture and science to support the deeper understanding and more effective cultivation of human flourishing.

Capstone

The capstone project is a distinguishing feature of the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program, blending academic and professional experiences and serving as the culmination of your work in the program. Through the capstone project, you will explore, in depth, the theories and practical applications you’ve learned in the program, to advance the field of positive psychology itself. Previous capstone projects have included empirical studies, literature reviews, book prospectuses, workshops and other endeavors.

The capstone is completed during the summer semester and has no on-site course requirements. You will conduct this project work independently, with your advisor’s ongoing guidance, in a setting that is significant to you and most relevant to your future professional goals.

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Clinical and Health psychology involves applying psychological understanding to difficulties connected with mental or physical health problems. Using this understanding, clinical psychologists assess and treat people of all ages and ability levels who are experiencing psychological distress, behavioural problems or related issues. Students taking the MSc will be introduced to the theory and knowledge that underpins effective practice in clinical psychology, will explore this in relation to a range of conditions, will gain an understanding of the range of research methods used by clinical psychologists, and will conduct their own research project in a relevant area.
How the course can further your career progression

This course will be of particular interest to:
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical or health psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training.
-graduates in psychology who are aiming for a career in clinical and health psychology and who have already gained relevant work experience. Completing the MSc course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training.
- graduates in psychology or closely related disciplines who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical or helath psychology. The MSc course is accredited as providing an appropriate research training for those wishing to progress to a PhD or to employment in a research post.
- qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical psychology.

Clinical psychology training in the UK involves the completion of a three-year training programme leading to a doctorate in clinical psychology and eligibility to apply for chartered clinical psychologist status. The training is funded by the National Health Service (NHS) and almost all trainees go on to work in the NHS after qualifying. Entry to these programmes is highly competitive and applicants must have good academic and research skills as well as relevant work experience, usually two years in a paid, full-time assistant psychologist position or equivalent. The MSc aims to provide students with a profile of academic knowledge and research skills which, combined with relevant work experience, will equip them to make a credible application for clinical psychology training, either in the UK or elsewhere.

About the School of Psychology
The School of Psychology at Bangor, which was ranked in the Top 20 in the UK in the most recent Research Exercise Framework with 89% of research rated either 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent', brings together a large group of outstanding scientists with international research reputations in clinical psychology, neuropsychology and clinical and cognitive neuroscience. A number of staff also hold appointments as consultant psychologists or medical consultants with the NHS and contribute to clinical practice as well as to the training of clinical psychologists, medical students and NHS staff. The School runs its own clinical psychology training programme, leading to the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Key research strengths within the clinical psychology domain include dementia, neuropsychology and rehabilitation, learning disability, developmental disorders, addictions, and cognitive-behavioural approaches. Close links with other departments and with NHS services produce tremendous opportunities for collaborative clinical psychology research. The School supports the practical implementation of research findings to improve patient care by hosting groups such as the Dementia Services Development Centre Wales.

The School has an extensive library of psychological tests and measures. Participant recruitment is facilitated through the availability of research panels for neurological patients and people with dementia, as well as student and community participation panels, supported by the School’s full-time patient co-ordinator. The School has a range of specialist laboratories and researchers in the School use a wide range of the latest techniques for understanding brain-behaviour relationships, including functional brain mapping with event related potentials (ERP), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

The School has a vibrant, diverse postgraduate community. Students on our MSc programmes are drawn from a range of backgrounds and nationalities. The School is known for its friendly and informal atmosphere, which combined with excellent facilities helps to ensure that studying here is a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Course Structure
The course includes three components: content modules, research methods modules, and a research thesis. Content and methods modules are all 20 credit modules and the research thesis is worth 60 credits. Students achieving 120 credits on the taught modules, but not completing a research thesis, may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma. The content modules are designed to provide an in-depth look at theory, evidence and practice in clinical psychology.

The course lasts one full calendar year if taken full-time and is also available part-time. During Semester 1 and Semester 2 you will combine taught modules with work on your research project. During the summer period all your time is devoted to completing and writing up the research project.

A variety of teaching approaches are used including lectures, case presentations, small-group sessions and seminars, and individual or group supervision. Assessment will include coursework and examinations, and the research thesis.

Career Prospects
This course will be of particular interest to psychology graduates aiming for a career in clinical psychology and who do not yet have relevant work experience. Completing the MSc provides a sound basis for obtaining employment as an assistant psychologist and later gaining entry to clinical training. For graduates who already have relevant work experience the course provides evidence of academic and research skills, which is valuable when making applications for clinical training. It is also an excellent preparation for graduates who are keen to pursue research in the area of clinical psychology and for qualified health professionals with an appropriate academic background who wish to extend their understanding of clinical and health psychology.

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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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Your programme of study

Do you want to enrich your skills to become highly proficient in practice and development in Psychology? Do you want to make a difference to the life of communities and individuals by promoting psychological well being? According to the British Psychological Society there are over 750 000 people working in positions that involve Psychology as part of their role.

If you have an undergraduate degree or equivalent in Psychology or a similar field but you want to boost your chances of gaining highly competitive positions such as: Assistant Psychologist, Clinical Associate Training or Doctoral Qualification in Clinical Psychology this programme is specifically designed to give you an edge and improve and hone your skills and knowledge within this field. You learn at the highly regarded Medical School which is ranked in the top 10 places to study in the UK, and research is in the top 20 (REF 2014) at one of the largest medical campuses in Europe.

You are taught by practicing Clinical Psychologists with access to a range of facilities and specialists from similar disciplines. You get advanced training in assessments, formulation skills, core clinical skills, lifespan, ethical and professional issues and research methods and you learn within a clinical project with local supervisors to carry out treatment. There are excellent links with NHS Grampian and other health services.

Read more about careers in Clinical Psychology

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

• Introduction to the Postgraduate Process and Professional Research Skills 1
• Core Psychology Research Methods
• Key Issues and Debates in Clinical Psychology
• Clinical Psychology Across the Lifespan: Core Areas

Semester 2

• Core Clinical Skills - Practitioner and Lived Experience Perspectives
• Clinical Research Methods
• Clinical Psychology Across the Lifespan: Specialist Areas
• Ethical and Professional Issues in Clinical Psychology

Semester 3

• Clinical Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

Why study at Aberdeen?

• You study at one of the oldest centres for study of Psychology with research which continues today and evaluates new and important areas
• You are taught by practitioners based at Foresterhill Campus and Royal Cornhill Psychiatric Hospital. The School of Psychology is ranked in the top 20 for research (REF 2014) and the Medical School is ranked in the top 10 in the UK

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen

International Student Fees 2017/2018

£16900

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Find out more about fees

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

Your Accommodation

• Catered Accommodation
• Self-Catering     

Campus Facilities

• University of Aberdeen: A Global Community
• University of Aberdeen: We are international
• Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies
• Sport
• Societies
• Review

Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs

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Our Psychology MA is a new course designed to offer advanced study in psychology with an emphasis on both research excellence and critical writing skills. Following two semesters of academic study, students write a stand-alone literature review in an area of psychology that particularly appeals to them. This may be an idea or theory that the graduate is already developing, or may be in an area that they become interested in during the course. An academic supervisor will help students to develop their ideas and hone their writing skills, providing support for the literature review. Students can choose to follow a general programme or specialise in the following areas by choosing particular options in semesters one and two.

Read the course leaflet.

View the MA Psychology modules.

During the first two Semesters of this course, content modules are split between core research foundation courses providing an in depth knowledge of how psychological experiments are designed, carried out, analysed and written up, as well as a focus on evaluating scientific research and writing with an appropriate scientific style, and courses offering a variety of subject matters that students can choose from. Courses are taught by the highest calibre research academics and we provide an excellent teaching and learning environment through the use of innovative teaching tools, media and environments. Some courses integrate both undergraduate and graduate classes and so provide a rich and vibrant atmosphere for learning and social interactions.

The course is especially recommended to graduates who want to:

pursue a career in psychology-related humanities, the health-care professions and social-sciences such as scientific journalism, business management, occupational psychology, marketing and medical care;
give their CV an additional boost
explore a particular area of psychology in detail through researching and writing a literature review.
It should be noted that the course does not qualify a student for PhD study at Bangor Psychology, but that should not deter students from applying to psychology departments in other universities and for PhD study in other disciplines. For example, our MA graduates have pursued PhD study in Sociology, Business and Marketing, and Medical History and Humanities.

Programme Aims
To provide post-graduate foundation in psychology and psychological research;
To evaluative psychological research methodology, experimental design and analysis;
To provide the conceptual tools necessary for insight into psychological processes and meanings within several key domains of psychology that the student selects;
To enable students to develop a critical and evaluative understanding of different approaches to psychological study;
To develop key skills in psychological research such as scientific writing, critical analysis of research and communicating research in psychology;
To enable students to produce a substantial written thesis demonstrating their ability to understand, evaluate and integrate psychological research into a coherent body.
Content and Structure
This course consists of taught components along with a literature review. Semesters one and two involve both core modules and a selection of content modules. During the second semester, students work, with the support of an academic supervisor, to identify a theory, model or research question that they wish to explore through their review. This is then completed during the third semester.

Core modules for Semester 1: Issues in Qualitative & Quantitative + 3 Options.
Core modules for Semester 2: Project Proposal, Communicating Research in Psychology + 2 Options.
Students choose the five optional content modules based on their areas of interest (see module list).
Teaching and Learning Assessment
Teaching occurs via lectures, seminars and tutorials given by research experts in the School. All teachers are actively engaged in research programmes. Assessment methods include written exams, essays, oral presentations and a research thesis.

Literature Review
The thesis is the key component of this course allowing the student to demonstrate their learning, knowledge and understanding. Each student focuses on a specific research question or theory and, along with their supervisor, they will develop their ideas, review the relevant literature and write a thesis.

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What's the Master of Psychology all about? 

Students of the research master will obtain:

• a thorough training in statistics and research methodology
• the in-depth study of the basic disciplines of psychology, supplemented with a specialization in perception, cognition and language, emotion, cross-cultural psychology, neuroscience, learning psychology, or quantitative psychology.

In addition to individual and group-based coursework, students become immersed in ongoing multidisciplinary research at the faculty.

Hands-on expertise

• Master’s thesis: You conduct independent psychological research in line with your own interests. Topics can range from fundamental to applied and frequently lead to publication in scientific peer-reviewed journals.
• Internship: You complete an internship (120 days) at one of our faculty research groups or one of many top universities and institutes worldwide.

International

Acknowledging the increasing importance of international research experience in scientific and career development, students may complete their internship at one of the research groups of the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences at KU Leuven, or they can complete part or all of their internship outside Leuven. Internship coordinators and faculty members help students locate and arrange internships at international research groups around the world.

Our students have conducted their internships at top universities and institutes worldwide, including:

• University of Cambridge (UK)
• University of Oxford (UK)
• University of Melbourne (AUS)
• Stanford University (USA)
• Rutgers University, New Jersey (USA)
• Berkeley University (USA)
• Tübingen Max Planck instituut (GER)
• University of Göttingen (GER)
• University of Copenhagen (DAN)

General objectives

• Students will acquire advanced knowledge of the basic domains of psychological research. They will understand how research results are established, from the conception of research questions to the dissemination of results.
• Students will become proficient to gather relevant information from the research literature, critically evaluate information, and actively use this information to generate novel research and theory. They will learn how to deal with questions about psychological functioning in an independent and scientific way. This will involve analyzing concrete problems, asking critical questions, designing and implementing appropriate methodologies and interventions, and developing well-reasoned arguments about their social views.
• Students will be prepared to independently develop their skills in psychology as a science and as an evidence-based practice.

General learning outcomes

• Students can gain insight in theory and research in the basic domains of psychology and their chosen areas of specialization.
• Students can critically examine scientific developments in psychology and argue their scientific views and decisions. They can apply this knowledge the analysis of specific psychological problems.
• Students know and understand the methodology of behavioral science research, both in terms of general principles and data analysis, its potential and limitations. They can apply this knowledge both in the processing of their own research data and in the critical reading of that of others.
• Students acquire a general scientific attitude, effective communication and reporting skills, personal maturity and sensitivity to ethical and moral issues associated with psychology and the scientific profession.

Career perspectives

The primary purpose of the Master of Psychology: Theory and Research is to prepare students to pursue a PhD project. Many of our graduates go on to pursue academic careers at top universities. The programme also provides a solid background for international careers in a variety of other settings, which may include:

• scientific research and policy functions in research institutes
• somatic and mental health treatment institutions
• centres for educational research and counselling
• insurance providers
• government agencies
• pharmaceutical, food, and medical technology industries.

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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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The Department of Psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University boasts research expertise of international repute. Choosing to study with us will not only provide you with an intellectually stimulating degree, but also by providing you with access to the latest research expertise and specialist equipment, we will develop your thirst for knowledge and inspire you to question, research and analyse your theories.

We are committed to ensuring that our graduates are employable professionals. It is increasingly important that your postgraduate degree programme develop the skills that employers are after and alongside the acquisition of academic knowledge, our students will develop and apply skills in:

• Assessment
• Verbal communication
• Professional report writing
• Evaluation
• Analytical thinking

The MSc Psychology programme is available as either a taught or research master's level programme

Taught route 

This is one of the most flexible on our continuing professional development programme offering a diverse portfolio of core and optional modules.

Core research modules include:

• personal and professional development, 
• preparing for academic practice, 
• quantitative research methods, 
• qualitative research methods, 
• dissertation.

This route is most suited to those wishing to undertake higher level general studies in Psychology, or for those who want to develop their professional understanding and skills in specific areas of Psychology. It is also possible to design a specialised programme that is not available via one of the main routes.

Part time students are advised to take a minimum of 40 credits in the first year of study. The Dissertation and Personal and Professional Development units should be taken in the final year of study.

Research Route

This is most suitable for those who wish to undertake a higher research degree, but who are not ready commit to an MPhil or PhD. It enables students to undertake a substantial dissertation in any area of Psychology, supported by taught units – usually in research methods and/or a specialist subject.

Students opting for both routes benefit from an ongoing research environment guided by academic tutors who are research active across a variety of areas and feed into the activities of the Research Groups within the Faculty.

Part time students are advised to take a minimum of 40 credits in the first year of study. The Dissertation and Personal and Professional Development units should be taken in the final year of study.

International Research

Research in the department primarily focuses on solving real world problems, ensuring that our theoretically strong work has an impact outside academia. Currently holding grants from the Medical Research Council and the Economic and Social Research Council our research is not only relevant and underpinned by a unique blend of qualitative and quantitative orientations but has international reach and esteem.

Features and benefits of the course

-Modular programme

-Choice of electives

-130 high quality academic papers in print over the last 12 months

-96% of students are satisfied with the quality of our teaching (NSS)

-We have a clear focus on student employability, offering psychometric testing and workshops to support students in their personal progression and future job applications

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The Clinical Psychology program at The University of Melbourne began in the early 1970's. The program enjoys an excellent reputation and is one of the premier clinical psychology programs in the country. The core objective is to provide graduates with the skills to work as professional clinical psychologists as well as a thorough grounding in the discipline of clinical psychology, particularly in the area of mental illness.

The program aims to produce students with a strong knowledge base in the 'organic' and 'functional' psychopathologies, combined with a high level of skill and acumen in the detection, assessment, and diagnosis and treatment of various psychological conditions. Therapeutic skills are taught primarily within a broad cognitive-behavioural framework within didactic, individual, and group-based clinical contexts. In their first year, all students see adult clients referred to The University of Melbourne Psychology Clinic. In addition, all students undertake second year field placements in adult mental health services and with children and their families at the Royal Children's Hospital and/or in related community treatment services for children and adolescents.

• to provide excellence in clinical training so that graduates can take on leadership roles within the profession 
• to provide theoretical knowledge and skills relevant to clinical psychology practice 
• to provide skills in research & evaluation 
• to provide a working knowledge of the medical, mental health & relevant systems where clinical psychologists are employed

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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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Why this course?

The classes that make up this course have been carefully developed to offer theory, knowledge and practical skills across the areas of clinical, health and neuropsychology, in addition to providing training in research methods.

The knowledge and skills you'll develop will help you if you're aiming to take a PhD in a clinical or health based area, or want to become a Practitioner Psychologist.

You can study full-time over one year or part-time over two years. Single modules can be taken as part of Continuing Professional Development.

Please note although this MSc has a duration of one year, the final assessment deadline you will have (dissertation submission) will be at the end of July. This is to ensure time for marking dissertations and for the external examiner to review all assignments (including the dissertations), prior to the exam board which takes place at the very beginning of September (and within which the marks are ratified). This procedure is typical of MSc courses in the UK.

You’ll study:

Research methods

Two modules covering qualitative and quantitative analyses.

Applied

Three modules covering theoretical issues and practical skills relevant to medical conditions from a clinical, health and neuropsychological perspective.

Professional practice

This module provides you with knowledge of the professional skills required in a workplace setting. 

Dissertation

You’ll complete a supervised research dissertation on a topic related to the course themes. It can take the form of an individual primary study, a secondary data analysis or a formal systematic review or meta-analysis.

Work placement

You’ll complete a supervised research placement on a topic related to the course themes.

Find out more about the work placement. 

Empirical project

You’ll undertake a significant empirical project suitable for publication during the MSc. It can take the form of an individual primary study, a secondary data analysis or a formal systematic review or meta-analysis.

Facilities

We've a number of purpose built experimental labs and facilities including:

• Driving Simulator Lab
• Memory Lab
• Perception & Action Lab
• Psychophysiology Lab
• Psycholinguistics Lab
• Strathclyde Oculomotor Lab

Guest lectures

Practitioner psychologists contribute to both lectures and seminars throughout the course. For example, you’re introduced to techniques such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing by Health & Care Professionals Councils (HCPC) accredited Practitioner Psychologists.

Learning & teaching

The course is delivered through seminars, workshops, practical training sessions and practical labs. Specialist guest lectures from external speakers are also included in the curriculum.

The placement enables you to experience an applied work setting.

Assessment

A wide variety of assessment methods are employed by the course including:

• practical report
• self-reflective practice diary
• exam
• design of health information leaflet
• poster presentation
• case study evaluation
• essay
• thesis

Careers

This course will be of interest to students who wish to pursue a career as an applied psychologist, either as a researcher progressing to a PhD, or to support progression to further clinical training such as clinical psychology.

The course also provides post-graduate specialisation in health for graduates to equip them with the knowledge and skills in mental and physical health and well-being to work in NGOs or in a professional position at global organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The range of professional and research skills that our graduates develop on the course means that they are highly employable for the next stage of research or clinical training.

Many have been successful in moving to a funded PhD following completion of the course while others have gone onto psychology assistant or community mental health organisations positions.

Please note that completion of this MSc does not provide a qualification for clinical practice in the UK. For a career as a Clinical Psychologist, a three-year doctorate in Clinical Psychology is required. The MSc in Clinical Health Psychology will provide foundational knowledge and skills that will be relevant for the doctorate, or for a job that will support career progression (for example, as an assistant psychologist).

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Key fact

Ideal for students with Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC), the MSc provides Stage 1 training towards Practitioner Health Psychology status.

Introduction

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.

Excellent teaching and research

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.

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.

Transferable skills

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.

For up to date list of modules and course delivery please visit our website.

Learning and Teaching

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.

Study facilities

You'll have access to a wide range of course-specific and general support resources. The department is well equipped, and you can access many of the campus resources 24 hours a day - such as computer labs and extensive libraries.

Find out more about the facilities and resources UWE has to offer: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/whyuwe/fantasticfacilities

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.

Open Events

We hold a number of University-wide open evenings as well as a number of subject specific events throughout the year for anyone considering postgraduate and professional study. Visit http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/whatson/opendays/postgraduateopendays.aspx

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This MSc aims to provide sufficient knowledge of advanced medically related anthropology to enable students to utilise anthropological approaches in a range of research and professional roles. We train students in theoretical and applied aspects of the field, preparing them for careers that engage with and impact real-world contexts.

About this degree

Students new to social science develop an understanding of a social science approach to the experience of illness and health, and gain skills required in social anthropological field research and analysis. For students with previous social science training, the programme focuses on the dimensions particular to medical anthropology.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core module (45 credits), optional modules in three distinct fields (45 credits) and a research dissertation (90 credits).

Core modules

• Clinical Ethnography
• Medical Anthropology

Optional modules

• Aspects of Applied Medical Anthropology
• Anthropology of Science, Society and Biomedicine
• Ritual Healing and Therapeutic Emplotment
• Anthropology of Ethics and Morality
• Anthropology and Psychiatry
• *Students may also choose one module from among a variety of other options within and beyond medical anthropology

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, small-group presentations and discussion, tutorials, laboratory and practical work, independent directed reading, interactive teamwork, and video film and web based courses. Assessment is through one examination, two essays, optional module requirements and the research dissertation.

Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Medical Anthropology MSc

Careers

Medical Anthropology is a rapidly expanding interdisciplinary field and graduates of our programme have gone on to develop exciting careers in academia, clinical services, social services, government, and non-governmental organisations.

Recent career destinations for this degree

• Dentist, Whittington Health NHS
• PhD Social Anthropology,UCL
• PhD, The University of Manchester
• Researcher, JWCH Institute
• PhD Population Health Sciences, The University of Edinburgh

Employability

Our approach is broad and open-minded, encompassing analysis of diversity issues in clinical practice, critical medical anthropology, psychology/psychiatry, social impact of genetic technologies, demographics, ethics, and studies of traditional healing. UCL is ranked fifth in the QS World University Rankings and our students benefit from a wealth of resources.

Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL Anthropology was the first in the UK to integrate biological and social anthropology with material culture into a broad-based conception of the discipline. UCL Medical Anthropology at UCL integrates interpretive, critical and applied perspectives.

Our excellent results in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercises and 2014 Research Excellence Framework show that we are the leading broad-based anthropology department in the UK. We are also one of the largest anthropology departments in the UK, offering a breadth of expertise.

Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the wider anthropological community in London and the department's strong links with European universities and international institutions.

Research Excellence Framework (REF)

The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.

The following REF score was awarded to the department: Anthropology

68% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)

Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.

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