Masters Degrees (Psychology Conversion)

If you are a graduate who has not previously studied psychology but want a course that allows you to train to become a professional psychologist, then this is ideal. The MSc Psychology Conversion programme allows non-psychology graduates a flexible route into further postgraduate training to become a professional psychologist, eg Clinical, Forensic, Health, or Sport. You’ll gain an accredited psychology qualification that confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS). Discover the core areas of psychology, develop key skills and take optional modules to tailor the course to your own interests. The course also includes the opportunity to undertake an individual research project. You’ll be taught in modern facilities in a School that produces nationally and internationally excellent research. Progression is possible within the School onto a number of professional training courses in psychology for those who successfully complete the conversion course.

INDUSTRY LINKS

The School has excellent links with professional psychologists working in applied psychology practice in a number of areas (such as health, forensic and sport). This produces an environment where students can acquire excellent skills and knowledge for future professional training and enables us to tailor our courses to meeting the future demands of psychology in practice.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

You will be taught together as a group, using a mixture of lectures, workshops and seminars. Online learning facilities are used to support classroom teaching, for the submission and marking of coursework and for independent learning. In addition to classroom teaching, the course includes substantial elements of independent learning, so you will also develop your skills in this area. A range of assessment methods are used – for example, unseen exams, class tests, empirical research projects, presentations and coursework.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The MSc Psychology Conversion course will equip you with knowledge about psychological theories, concepts and research findings. You'll develop key skills that are valued in employment, including report writing, data collection, critical evaluation, argumentation and the processing and analysis of complex numerical and textual information.

Successful completion of this course allows you to apply for further professional training in psychology areas (such as clinical psychology, health psychology, forensic psychology, sport psychology). Opportunities to progress to stage 1 professional training within the UCLan School of Psychology exist in forensic psychology, health psychology and sport psychology.

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Course starts September 2018

The first intake for this course is September 2018. If you would like to know more about the course and application process please email [email protected]

What is special about this course?

Are you interested in the science of human behaviour and thought? Are you thinking about a career change or interested in how psychology might contribute to your existing career or interest? If so, this MSc Psychology Conversion* is ideal.

This intense, online course will provide you with a broad and critical awareness of psychological theory and practice. Throughout the course you will develop an understanding of what drives people's behaviour, why we are unique and in what ways we are the same, and explore the theories which explain human behaviour and how they are relevant in today's society.

You will examine the core fields of psychology including biological, individual differences, cognitive, and social and developmental psychology, as set out by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Alongside acquiring the key concepts and core knowledge of psychology, you will build strong project management, analytical and report writing skills. Your learning experience will culminate in a substantial research project/dissertation, for which you will have support from your supervisor.

Application for accreditation by the BPS has been submitted*. This is the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

Two face-to-face, long-weekend residentials are held in Inverness in August/September and March/April. You must attend these to be eligible for BPS registration on graduation.

*subject to validation/accreditation

Special features

The course is delivered online which means you can fit your studies around your work and personal commitments wherever you are
An access route is available for those who have less than 60 credits in psychology or who do not have an honours degree
On successful accreditation by the British Psychological Society, the degree will confer Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GB) with the British Psychological Society

Modules

PgCert/Access to Psychology Conversion

You will choose three of the following core modules:

The individual in contemporary society
Cognitive psychology and intelligence
Social and evolutionary psych
Behavioural neuroscience
Developmental psychology: from conception to death
Advanced research methods
Applicants with less than 60 credits in psychology or who do not have an honours degree are advised, but not required, to undertake three modules of 20 credits each at level 10 to 'top-up' their psychological knowledge and understanding, and the practice of research. The selection of modules will be negotiated on the basis of your previous academic experience.

PgDip

You will choose the remaining three modules from those listed in the PgCert

MSc

To achieve the award of MSc you must complete a research project/dissertation.

Locations

This course is available online with support from Inverness College UHI, 1 Inverness Campus, Inverness, IV2 5NA

Study Options

You will study through supported online learning using the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

You must attend the two residential weekends to be eligible for BPS* registration on graduation

Top five reasons to study at UHI

1. Do something different: our reputation is built on our innovative approach to learning and our distinctive research and curriculum which often reflects the unique environment and culture of our region and closely links to vocational skills required by a range of sectors.
2. Flexible learning options mean that you can usually study part time or full time. Some courses can be studied fully online from home or work, others are campus-based.
3. Choice of campuses – we have campuses across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Each campus is different from rich cultural life of the islands; the spectacular coasts and mountains; to the bright lights of our city locations.
4. Small class sizes mean that you have a more personal experience of university and receive all the support you need from our expert staff
5. The affordable option - if you already live in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland you don't have to leave home and incur huge debts to go to university; we're right here on your doorstep

Funding

Scholarships relevant to this course are displayed (where available) below. For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UHI, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website http://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/first-steps/how-much-will-it-cost/tuition-fees-postgraduate

How to apply

If you want to apply for this postgraduate programme click on the ‘visit website’ button below which will take you to the relevant course page on our website, from there select the Apply tab to complete our online application.
If you still have any questions please get in touch with our information line by email using the links beow or call on 0845 272 3600.

International Students

An exciting and diverse student life awaits our international students. Choose to study in one of the larger urban centres of the region, such as Perth, Inverness or Elgin, or in one of the smaller towns or island communities, including the Western and Northern Isles. http://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/international

English Language Requirements

Our programmes are taught and examined in English. To make the most of your studies, you must be able to communicate fluently and accurately in spoken and written English and provide certified proof of your competence before starting your course. Please note that English language tests need to have been taken no more than two years prior to the start date of the course. The standard English Language criteria to study at the University of the Highlands and Islands are detailed on our English language requirements page http://www.uhi.ac.uk/en/studying-at-uhi/international/how-to-apply-to-uhi/english-language-requirements

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This course aims to provide you with a sound knowledge of psychology, having been developed to impart the advanced knowledge required to serve your interests and career aspirations. Based at our Hendon Campus in London, you will benefit from the experience of our dedicated and enthusiastic staff. You will have access to some of the best and most up-to-date psychology facilities for teaching and research in the UK.

Why study MSc Psychology Conversion at Middlesex?

This conversion course is for graduates intending to pursue a career in psychology who wish to acquire the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological Society. You may have a degree in another subject but you will need to have previously studied 60 credits in psychology. Students are introduced to the broad range of theoretical and methodological approaches to psychology and are encouraged to develop a critical approach to studies, evaluating theory and evidence accordingly.

By the end of this course, you will be able to perform quantitative and qualitative data analyses and use statistical software to analyse complex data. You will design, implement, analyse and communicate independent and group project work to an advanced level. You will also be familiar with experimental software to design and run experiments and use psycho-physiological equipment to gather and interpret data.

Course highlights:

- We have excellent employment results: over 90% of our psychology graduates are employed within six months of completing their degree.
- Our psychology teaching and research facilities are unrivalled. They include specialist laboratories and counselling practice rooms.
- Our academics are regularly and widely published - Professor Olga van den Akker, for example, is renowned for her research into psychology and human fertility and Dr Miranda Horvath is widely published for her groundbreaking research into violence against women from a feminist and forensic psychological perspective.
- As a student of this course you'll receive a free electronic textbook for every module.

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Develop a broad knowledge of psychology on a course that can be tailored to broaden your mind and develop your career.

This newly developed master’s programme has been designed for those who have an interest in psychology and want to follow a course that is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

As a master’s student you can take advantage of our cutting-edge research laboratories, neuroimaging facilities, and resources for observation. Teaching is also informed by our three in-house NHS clinics (Anxiety & Depression, Speech & Language Therapy, Autism and Berkshire Memory & Cognition Clinic), and the world-renowned Charlie Waller Institute for evidence-based psychological treatments.

You will be taught by leading academics who combine research and theory to provide you with the skills to go on to your future career. We will provide you with a modern, wide, evidence-based introduction to psychology as a science, in excellent facilities all set in our lovely Whiteknights campus.

The programme follows the structure of our successful BSc in Psychology, and includes optional specialist modules such as Introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for those interested in Clinical Psychology.

We cover all the important sub-disciplines of psychology, including:

• Development in typical and atypical populations
• Neuroscience
• Perception
• Cognition
• Social psychology
• Differential psychology

A number of features make our programme unique in the UK. Our special seminars and enhanced teaching and assessment approaches are aimed specifically at graduates from other disciples, and we offer sessions designed specifically for conversion students that cover skills and information to enhance employability.

As part of the programme, you are required to have an understanding of statistics, but we understand that many students will have minimal knowledge when they start on the degree, so we provide support seminars in parallel with the main teaching sessions.

We offer an optional component so that you can tailor your degree according to whether you are interested in the fundamental science of the mind and brain or would prefer to pursue a career in a clinical psychology-related field. An optional Research Placement module is also available, giving you the opportunity to work in one of our world-class research laboratories. We even offer an opportunity to learn a language.

Throughout the course you will gain practical experience, and learn how to devise your own experiments, culminating in designing and conducting your own MSc research project. This project will be supervised by one of our academic staff — there is a huge range of possible disciplines and topics to choose from.

What will you study?

Sample modules include:

• Research Methods and Data Analysis
• Typical and Atypical Development
• Social and Differential Psychology
• Cognition
• Neuroscience
• Psychology Lab Placement (optional)
• Introduction to CBT (optional)

Please note that all modules are subject to change. Please see our modules disclaimer for more information.

What career can you have?

As a graduate of this course you will be qualified for further training to become a professional psychologist. Our MSc Psychology Conversion degree is accredited by the British Psychology Society and provides you with the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.

This course is particularly applicable to many careers involving research, data management and analytical thinking. You could go onto a career in a psychology related field such as clinical, forensic, counselling and educational psychology, as well as broader fields such as education, health, human resources, marketing and commerce. Previous organisations that students have gone onto work for include the NHS, civil services, schools and charities. Alternatively, you can choose to further develop your skills by moving into research, teacher training or further postgraduate studies. 

 

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This award is designed to provide the qualification and experience for you to enter a conversion degree in psychology. Conversion degrees, such as our own Graduate Diploma in Psychology, offer a fast track route to eligibility for Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society, and are therefore the first step towards further postgraduate training aimed at professional status. This course may be studied by graduates with no prior knowledge of psychology.

Intakes twice a year in September and January/February.

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This Master's level, modular course builds on the innovative and diverse curriculum offered at undergraduate level. Intended for non Psychology graduates this on-line conversion course will equip the student with the requirements for the Society’s Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) and enable the student to qualify for further professional training in order to then pursue a career in Psychology.

The curriculum will be entirely delivered by E-Learning and Virtual Learning Environments including, for example Skype, Adobe Connect and other best practice examples of on-line learning.

Features and benefits of the course

-This programme is a conversion for graduates of other disciplines considering a career in Psychology
-The course is delivered by distance learning
-This course programme is approved and recognised by the British Psychological Society
-Curriculum is based upon and developed to ensure that the core elements of the BPS requirements for eligibility for GBC membership are met

About the Course

The course has been designed to offer a full MSc masters qualification in Psychology and also a Postgraduate Diploma on a full or part time basis.

Students graduating with the MSc (Conversion Award) will have produced a 60 credit Dissertation and will have completed two of the three optional units.

Students graduating with the PgDip(Conversion Award) will have produced a 20 credit Empirical Project and will have completed one of the three optional units.

Assessment details

Assessment is through a combination of coursework, essays, research proposals, online student presentations and research projects (Dissertation or Empirical Project).

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The MSc Psychology (Conversion Degree) is an excellent fast-track route suitable for appropriately qualified individuals who do not have an undergraduate degree in psychology but who wish to study core areas of psychology and pursue a career in psychology. The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as conferring eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). GBC is necessary if a student is interested in becoming a chartered psychologist. You can visit careers.bps.org.uk for further information about careers in psychology.

The programme is also suitable for those who have obtained a previous degree in psychology (home and overseas) that is not recognised by the BPS, and it may also be of particular interest to health and social care professionals with some background in psychology at degree level.

The programme provides a broad scientific education in psychology with a strong grounding in psychological theories and research methods, and explores how psychological research is conducted, analysed and reported. The programme is delivered through a series of guided learning exercises, culminating in an independent research project. Students receive carefully designed academic support throughout the programme.

Students develop a strong understanding of psychology as a discipline and acquire a range of skills, including critical thinking and analytical and research skills. On successful completion of the programme students will be able to evaluate, interpret and integrate arguments, evidence and empirical findings. These skills are appropriate to psychology as a discipline and suitable for a diverse range of employment opportunities.

If you would like any further information, please contact the programme team on [email protected].

The Department of Psychology, Social Work & Counselling is a trusted provider of excellent academic degrees and vocational training. Our teaching staff are research active and are experts in their respective field. The department is consistently rated highly in the National Student Survey. We pride ourselves on combining high-quality teaching with world-class research and a vibrant student experience. We have well-equipped facilities and laboratories to support our activities and we employ creative teaching methods and assessment techniques.

The aims of the programme are:

- To teach students a scientific understanding of mind, brain, behaviour and experience, and the complex interactions between these

- To foster students' understanding of real-life applications of theory to the full range of experience and behaviour

- To help them develop a range of research skills and methods for investigating experience and behaviour, culminating in an ability to conduct research independently

- To develop their knowledge, leading to an ability to analyse, discuss and critically evaluate theory, research findings and applications. If you would like any further information about this programme, please contact [email protected].

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/psy/psych

Psychology and Counselling

The Department of Psychology & Counselling at Greenwich has a strong record of delivering high quality programmes, research and consultancy. All our programmes offer a wide choice of courses and we employ creative teaching methods and assessment techniques. We welcome and offer support to students from a range of backgrounds.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Brain, Behaviour and Cognition (30 credits)
Individual Differences and Abnormal Psychology (30 credits)
Applied Psychology Project (60 credits)
Research Methods in Psychology (30 credits)
Advanced Developmental Psychology (15 credits)
Social Psychology: Current Social Issues (Level 7) (15 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Brain, Behaviour and Cognition (30 credits)
Individual Differences and Abnormal Psychology (30 credits)
Advanced Developmental Psychology (15 credits)
Social Psychology: Current Social Issues (Level 7) (15 credits)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Applied Psychology Project (60 credits)
Research Methods in Psychology (30 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Find out more about our fees and the support available to you at our:
- Postgraduate finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/pg)
- International students' finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/international)

Assessment

Assessments are varied and may include seen and unseen exams, essays, critical reflections, presentations, research poster and practical reports.

Professional recognition

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society as conferring eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership with the society, provided that the student has achieved an overall pass mark of 50% and has also passed the research project.

Career options

The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as conferring eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). GBC is necessary if you are interested in becoming a chartered psychologist. You can visit careers.bps.org.uk for further information about careers in psychology.

In addition to chartered psychologist professions, psychology graduates may find opportunities are available in business, commerce, counselling and education (with additional training), research, human resource management and the social sciences.

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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The MSc Psychology and PGDip Psychology are British Psychological Society (BPS) approved conversion courses. They are designed for graduates of any discipline whose first (i.e. undergraduate) degree is not recognised by the BPS.

- MSc Psychology is a 180-credit qualification which requires no previous experience or study of psychology.
- PGDip is a 120-credit qualification which requires that you have already completed 60 credits of study in psychology.

Successful completion of either qualification confers the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS.

The PG Dip and MSc students are taught together, with the MSc students taking their additional modules from term two onwards. This means that, assuming you meet the entry criteria for both courses, it's easy to transfer from one to the other at any point in the first term.

This course attracts a range of students including those who have recently completed an undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology or a non-accredited degree and also applicants who have come from jobs in the public and private sector, who are looking for a career change.

Core modules:

Core modules may include:
Biological Psychology
Social Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Individual Differences
Historical and Conceptual Issues
Research Methods
Statistics
Psychology Research Project.

In addition, MSc Psychology students complete an extended essay focused on a topic of their choosing, as well as 20 credits of 'Contemporary Psychology' selected from a list of available option choices.

Specialist Psychological Essay (MSc only)
Contemporary Psychology (MSc only)

For more information visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/psychologymsc

Facilities

The University has made significant financial investment in the Psychology Division over recent years upgrading accommodation, facilities and equipment used exclusively for the provision of our psychology courses and for research. We have a first class undergraduate teaching laboratory suite and a second teaching laboratory specifically catering for postgraduate students.

In addition there are specialist suites dedicated to particular areas of interest in psychology, including:

social interaction, group work and interviewing
computer gaming and cyberpsychology
eye-tracking
cognitive modelling and visual analysis
psychophysiology.

Alongside these are new flexible cubicles for student project work, a psychometric test bank library, and a technical workshop.

Delivery and assessment

The course provides lectures, seminars, tutorials and lab classes that facilitate the development of a course identity among students. All of the core modules on these courses are taught exclusively to MSc and PGDip Psychology students by experienced staff used to working with students from a wide variety of backgrounds and with varying skills and experiences. Further support is provided through a dedicated tutorial system. Tutorials provide an opportunity to discuss the course content, studying methods, careers and assessments in small groups.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways and on a modular basis; through examination (both seen and unseen exams are used), coursework (including essays, laboratory reports and literature reviews), oral presentation and via your research project.

Careers

With the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the BPS secured, you will be eligible upon graduation to undertake further training as a professional psychologist (in areas such as clinical, forensic, educational, occupational, counselling, or sport psychology).

Alternatively you might choose to pursue an academic and/or research career in various areas of psychology (by working as a research assistant or associate or by completing a dedicated Research Methods Masters or studying for a PhD), or you may choose to exploit the transferable skills you have learned on the course to pursue a career outside of psychology.

Psychology qualifications tend to be very popular with all employers because you have to be able to write essays and reports, you have to have some basic mastery of research and data analysis, and because they assume you know quite a lot about people!

Scholarships

The MSc Psychology is included in the School of Social Sciences' competitive Masters Scholarship scheme. However as the Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology is not a full-time Masters course this course is excluded from the scheme. For more information please visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3scholarships

Want to find out more? Come along to one of our postgraduate Open Evenings. For further details please visit: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3events

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Psychology is all around us. It's one of the most diverse and fascinating subjects. We have an equally diverse team of research-active staff who work at the forefront of their research areas, from the mental world to the real world. We bring that expertise to our lectures, seminars, and practical classes. The MSc Psychology (conversion course) at CCCU offers more than the core areas of psychology. The training in research methods will offer you the opportunity to engage in sophisticated, postgraduate level research. The course is also designed with vocational/professional training in mind. While every student will need to complete core modules, this course offers optional modules, which tie in with the research themes in our team:

• Society & Environment.
• Learning & Development.
• Cognition & Creativity.
• Health & Wellbeing.

These modules will immerse you in current research by the Psychology Team at CCCU and, together with your project, offer you the chance to actively contribute to that research. In addition, you will also receive some sessions to help you in your journey towards your chosen career path.

Visit the website: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/courses/postgraduate/psychology.aspx

Course detail

• This course will give you a Master’s level qualification that confers eligibility for GBC with the BPS.
• You will benefit from hands on, enquiry based learning.
• You will be involved in cutting edge research currently being conducted by the Psychology Team at this university.
• You will be assigned a personal tutor who will also double as your mentor. This person will be your first port of call and will be available throughout your time with us. We also have a dedicated Psychology Student Welfare Officer.
• After completing this MSc, you will be in an optimal position to decide which route is best for your future career in psychology, with the knowledge and confidence that you have been provided with all the tools you need to make a fully informed decision.

Suitability

The MSc Psychology (conversion course) is designed for those wanting to pursue a career in psychology but who hold an undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology or a non-accredited psychology degree (either combined or single honours). This conversion course will give you a good grounding in the core areas of psychology and confer eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS), which is a requirement for postgraduate training in psychology. This conversion course can also be used as a stepping stone to postgraduate research in psychology.

Content

Term 1 (September to December) covers core content in the different areas of psychology, as well as basic research methods content. Part-time students would complete these modules during the first leg of their degree. If you are enrolled on the full-time route, you'll also begin work on your research project with your supervisor, who will be an active researcher within the Psychology Team and assigned to you on the basis of common research interests.

Term 2 (January to March) covers more sophisticated research methods and students take two optional modules from a range of four, which tie in to the research themes in the psychology team and to various career paths. Part-time students would also complete these modules as part of leg 1. During this term, full-time students continue to work on their research project.

From April to August, if you are a full-time student you'll be working on your project and an extended essay. The project involves an empirical study, due in at the end of August. The extended critical essay is due in at the end of May and it involves a critical review of issues surrounding research (e.g. epistemology).

If you are a part-time student, you would re-join us at the beginning of the next academic year for leg 2 of your programme, to work on your projects and complete your extended essays.

Format

You will experience a variety of learning and teaching techniques, which will vary from module to module. These may include lectures, discussion-based sessions, workshops, hands-on research, as well as a substantial amount of self-directed study. For every hour of directed study, you are expected to put in around 5-6 hours of independent study. In total, you are expected to dedicate about 35-40 hours per week (including on-campus sessions) to your studies.

All staff involved in the delivery of the course are research-active academics. Some sessions may also involve and /or be led by practitioners and other relevant individuals (e.g., patient groups), to make sure your experience is as rich and well-rounded as we can possibly make it.

Assessment

Assessment is on an on­going basis, using a number of formats designed to tap into the different skills you are expected to develop during your time with us, including objective assessments, essays, portfolios, practical reports, presentations, podcasts and a final research project.

What can I do next?

This conversion course confers eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered membership of the BPS, which means you can go on to further post-graduate training in psychology. This applies to vocational / professional routes, such as Forensic, Clinical or Educational Psychology, or research-focused training (PhD).

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Funding

-Masters Loans-

From 2016/17 government loans of up to £10,000 are available for postgraduate Masters study. The loans will be paid directly to students by the Student Loans Company and will be subject to both personal and course eligibility criteria.

For more information available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/funding-your-postgraduate-degree.aspx

-2017/18 Entry Financial Support-

Information on alternative funding sources is available here: https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/study-here/funding-your-degree/2017-18-entry-financial-support.aspx

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About the course

The MSc Psychological Sciences conversion course provides a post-graduate qualification enabling students from a range of backgrounds to gain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership in Psychology of the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Moreover, the conversion course provides a sound knowledge of the diverse approaches to the study of behaviour encompassed within the core areas of psychology. Finally, the course emphasises the development of transferable knowledge, analytic expertise and research skills, which will be useful across the diverse areas of employment that attract psychology graduates and as a basis for further advanced study within the discipline (e.g. PhD, ClinPsyD, DEdPsy).

Aims

Psychology is defined as the study of mind and behaviour. Psychology is simultaneously a biological science and a social science, providing an exceptionally broad range of conceptual perspectives and empirical skills that will enable students to compete effectively in the workforce upon graduation.

The programme aims to provide students with:

Coverage of all of the requirements for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership in Psychology within the British Psychological Society (BPS).

A comprehensive understanding, and critical awareness, of how the theories, methods, and research findings of psychology draw upon and contribute to the natural sciences and the social sciences alike.

A comprehensive and systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current issues relating to important concepts, theoretical issues, research findings, historical issues, recent advances, and research methods in psychology.

Comprehensive knowledge and systematic understanding of relevant concepts, theoretical issues, research findings, recent advances, and research methods in biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, individual differences, and social psychology that are critical for research in psychology.

The opportunity to acquire comprehensive knowledge and systematic understanding of a particular topic in psychology and to conduct an original empirical research project in that area.

The opportunity to acquire important transferable, advanced research skills (e.g. research design, data analysis, report preparation).

Course Content

Compulsory modules:

Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Individual Differences
Social Psychology
Statistics in Psychology
Dissertation
Biological Psychology
Cognitive Psychology
Research Methods in Psychology
Psychology Research Methods in Practice
Research Methods
Biological and Cognitive Psychology

Typical Dissertations

The dissertation is an empirical report (maximum 12,000 words) that enables students to:
Integrate elements of their learning from different parts of the programme
Demonstrate their accumulated knowledge and systematic understanding of a topic
Show an ability to interpret primary source material
Develop an innovative approach to the subject
Work independently of others, consistent with BPS guidelines.

Teaching

Lectures and seminars provide students with in-depth knowledge of historical and contemporary perspectives in psychology.

Formative and summative essays provide reflection on historical and contemporary perspectives in psychology.

Statistics assignments, written research methods tests and laboratory reports will ensure proficiency in analytical skills - required to design research and interpret results.

Statistics assignment and lab reports will provide critical evaluation of the results of empirical research in psychology.

Formative summative essays, exams, and the dissertation will develop effective and critical written communication skills.

Individual meetings between students and dissertation supervisors will enable students to:

(a) Acquire knowledge concerning major theories and results of empirical studies that are relevant to the dissertation topic (including an understanding of the larger, real-world context within which the dissertation topic can be located); and

(b) Develop, analyse, and interpret theory-derived, testable hypotheses (and, perhaps, research questions) concerning links among the constructs to be studied in the dissertation.

Effective and critical written communication will be achieved via formative summative essays, exams, and the dissertation.

Assessment

Coursework essays – demonstration of systematic understanding, critical analysis, and written communication skills.

Examinations – demonstration of comprehensive understanding and written communication skills.

Quantitative reports – ability to analyse and interpret empirical evidence.

Oral presentations – demonstration of knowledge and understanding, critical analysis and oral communication skills.

Dissertation – ability to plan, critically review, execute and communicate an advanced piece of research.

Deadlines are distributed through the year, allowing time for constructive feedback.

Special Features

The MSc Psychological Sciences conversion course will provide a Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) in Psychology, as conferred by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This is an entry requirement for all postgraduate training programmes leading to chartered status and the vast majority of postgraduate programmes accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for registration as a practitioner psychologist.

There is a focus during the programme on developing students' sound knowledge of research methods and statistics - highly desirable skills in many areas of potential employment and so fundamental to the value added by the degree.

A wide range of options are available for students to pursue their own particular research interests (culminating in the dissertation) within the discipline.

Accreditation

BSc Psychology courses accredited by The British Psychological Society
The BSc Psychological Sciences programme at Brunel is accredited by The British Psychological Society.

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Developed for students who wish to develop a career in health or forensic psychology, this conversion course is open to anyone with a recognised undergraduate degree in any subject.

It covers the five core areas required for accreditation by the British Psychological Society, including the psychology of everyday life and cognitive and biological psychology.

Your studies will also involve the development of essential research skills, which ends with a piece of independent original research conducted under supervision.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/applied-psychology-conversion#about

Course detail

• Learn on a unique conversion course that places particular emphasis on the specialist areas of health and forensic psychology, and will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to develop a successful career
• Study the essential core topics of individual differences, developmental, social, cognitive and biological psychology
• Develop a deep understanding of how learning and memory can be applicable to our everyday lives
• Gain the skills and expertise necessary to use the qualitative and quantitative methodologies commonly used by professional psychologists
• Explore intellectual functions, the biological basis of behaviour and the effects of impairments on the mind
• Challenge yourself by studying how core knowledge in psychology can be applied in daily life to the specific areas of health, wellbeing and criminal behaviour
• Benefit from access to a wide range of departmental facilities, including expert advice and specialist software including SPSS, ATLAS, EEG and driver simulators.

Modules

• Advanced Research Methods (Applied Psychology) (PSY060-6) Compulsory
• Applied Psychology (PSY063-6) Compulsory
• Applied Psychology Dissertation Project (PSY064-6) Compulsory
• Biological And Neuropsychological Perspectives Of Behaviour (PSY061-6) Compulsory
• Cognition And Performance (PSY057-6) Compulsory
• Developmental Psychology (PSY058-6) Compulsory
• Personality, Intelligence And Assessments (PSY059-6) Compulsory
• Research Methods - Quantitative And Qualitative (PSY056-6) Compulsory
• Social Psychology (PSY062-6) Compulsory

Assessment

The assessment strategy reflects the academic rigor expected of a BPS accredited MSc degree.

The assessments are designed to test your academic knowledge, oral and written skills, use of literature using primary and secondary sources, critical analysis of ideas, connections made between theory, practice, real life situations and the understanding and application of professional values, including ethical issues as detailed by the BPS.

The ability to engage in research at a high level and to analyse data using advanced statistical techniques are assessed as these are important skills for psychologists and others in many employment settings. Communication skills are assessed through videotaped presentation of research proposals as these are very important in any career. The ability to analyse and understand issues and apply theory to practice are assessed through a number of units where student are required to produce academic reports, essays and reflective reports with a specific application of knowledge in mind.

Finally the important career skill of project management is assessed mainly through the research dissertation involving self-directed problem-based enquiry, managing time and reviewing.

Careers

Psychology is applicable in a range of everyday settings from shopping to work, but also in the NHS, the prison and probation service and more. Studying Applied Psychology will also develop a broad range of skills which you will find helpful in any work environment. You will:

• Be given an opportunity in the Applied Psychology unit to experience studying different subject areas within professional pathways of psychology such as clinical, counselling, education, health and forensic psychology.
• Develop skills for report writing specific to empirical research in psychology using both qualitative and quantitative methods
• Work individually or in groups to meet deadlines.
• Develop communication skills that enable you to summarise and present complex information, including the results of statistical analysis, to others.
• Develop skills on complex problem solving.

In order to achieve all of the above the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences and the wider University will support you with a range of subject specific talks given by professionals working in areas of psychology that require BPS chartered membership. These talks will provide you with information about how to achieve a career within these chartered membership pathways. For example, Health and Forensic Psychology. These career talks are an integrated part of your studies and are partly embedded in your curriculum.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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As a student of the MSc Psychology (Conversion) programme here at Leeds Trinity, you will be studying a course which is accredited by the British Psychological Society. The programme has been designed to provide a thorough grounding in psychology. This means that you will study core areas of psychology and, in addition, develop key skills including research skills, statistical analysis, critical evaluation, teamwork and communication skills.

The MSc in Psychology (conversion) is specifically designed for graduates with a minimum 2:2 classification degree in a subject area other than Psychology, wishing to become practicing Psychologists. This programme will be accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) so as to confer eligibility for Graduate Membership of the Society (GMBPsS) with the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) and is awarded through a successful application to become a Graduate Member of the Society.

This accreditation is important as it is a benchmark of quality, as defined by psychologists. GBC is an entry requirement for many BPS accredited postgraduate training courses, for example: Clinical, Forensic, Counselling, Educational, Occupational or Sport Psychology, one of the routes to becoming a practitioner as, for example, a Clinical Psychologist, a Forensic Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Occupational Psychologist or a Sport Psychologist. These specialisms form part of the route to becoming a Chartered Psychologist (C. Psychol.).

Benefits of Psychology (Conversion)

- Course to be accredited in Spring 2016 for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).​​
- As a student of the MSc Psychology (Conversion) programme here at Leeds Trinity, you will be studying a course which is accredited by the British Psychological Society.
- The programme has been designed to provide a thorough grounding in psychology. This means that you will study core areas of psychology and, in addition, develop key skills including research skills, statistical analysis, critical evaluation, teamwork and communication skills.​​

Graduate Destinations

The aim of this course is to provide Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). With GBC, further postgraduate psychology study is possible in all domains, leading to careers in: Clinical Psychology, Counselling Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Educational Occupational Psychology, and Sport and Exercise Psychology.​

Study Route

Following the successful award of MSc in Psychology, we encourage students to consider studying towards higher degrees, such as a PhD or towards an MSc in an applied area of Psychology for example Clinical, Forensic, Counselling, Educational, Occupational or Sport Psychology.
- This programme is subject to accreditation by the British Psychological Society

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Why Surrey?

Our intensive MSc Psychology (Conversion) programme is designed to provide students with a grounding in the theories and research practice of contemporary psychology.

It is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and places particular emphasis on the application of psychology to real-world problems, based on a combination of pure and applied research.

Programme overview

This competitive programme is aimed primarily towards people wishing to pursue a career in any field of psychology. It prepares students for their professional journey by helping them develop a broad knowledge base across the key areas of psychology in a contained period of time.

As a student, you will learn about the core areas of psychology, such as social, developmental and cognitive psychology, biological bases of psychology, and individual differences.

In addition, you will acquire statistical and research methods skills needed to conduct, under expert supervision, your independent research project on a topic of your choosing.

Programme structure

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

Altogether, the MSc is worth 180 credits:

• 15 credits for each of the four modules in semester one and two
• 60 credits for the MSc Dissertation

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. All modules are core, there are no elective modules, and modules may be subject to change.

• Preparation for Academic Research in Psychology
• Brain and Behaviour with Research Methods
• Fundamental Concepts in Social Psychology with Research Methods
• Statistics and Data Analysis for the MSc in Psychology (Conversion)
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology
• Social and Cognitive Development with Research Methods
• Cognitive Psychology with Research Methods
• Personality, Intelligence and Psychopathology
• Dissertation

Educational aims of the programme

• Fundamental scientific understanding of the mind, behaviour and experiences and the complex interactions between these
• Ability to present multiple perspectives is a way to foster critical thinking and evaluation of research
• Provide an understanding for real life applications of theory to the full range of experience and behaviour
• Ability to show deepened understanding of the role of empirical evidence in the creation and constraint of theory, and also in how theory guides the collection, analysis and interpretation of empirical data
• Acquisition and knowledge of a range of research skills and methods for investigating experience and behaviour, culminating in an ability to conduct research independently
• Develop scientific psychological knowledge, leading to an ability to appreciate and critically evaluate theory, research findings, and application

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

• A critical understanding of all elements of psychology and the ability to assess their relevance in the understanding of the contemporary world
• A reflective understanding of the main theoretical perspectives and debates of psychology and their relevance to a range of areas
• An ability to identify, summarise and apply key concepts in psychology to a range of psychology areas
• An ability to distinguish between and evaluate different methodological approaches to the study of mind, behaviour and experiences
• An ability to conduct a research project on the post graduate level.

Intellectual / cognitive skills

• Summarise and apply key concepts in psychology to a range of research areas
• Read psychology research, critically evaluate it and identify the key points
• Distinguish between and evaluate different methodological approaches to study psychology
• Assemble data from a variety of sources, discern and establish connections, and draw well-grounded conclusions
• Evaluate the integrity of evidence and of ‘data’ and to discern the difference between opinion an evidence
• Design and execute psychological research studies, and be competent in the collection, management and analysis of research data and derivation of conclusions
• Form grounded defensible theories, reasoned arguments in relation to evidence, and interpretations of findings. In addition students should be able to compare and contrast different theoretical approaches within the discipline
• Ask questions from a range of different angles and to challenge given views drawing on theory, evidence, and critical insight
• Plan, conduct, analyse and report an individual study to test formulated hypotheses for the dissertation

Professional practical skills

• Demonstrate competence in commonly used psychology research methodology
• Design and carry out psychological research using a variant of psychological research methods
• Gather, analyse and interpret qualitative and quantitative data
• Use information and computer technology to collect, analyse, and report on psychological research
• Collect, evaluate, and utilise information from primary and secondary sources in order to inform psychological questions
• Produce and present a poster
• Write a scientific research proposal and research reports in accordance with guidelines
• Write essays in accordance with guidelines
• Effectively communicate both orally and in writing
• Learn and think independently, as well as part of a group
• Demonstrate good time management and personal organisation
• Plan and execute an investigation/experiment, act autonomously and demonstrate originality

Key / transferable skills

• Communicate ideas, principles and theories effectively by oral, written and visual means
• Formulate and solve problems, both individually and as part of a team
• Apply statistical and numerical skills to psychological data
• Execute research skills through the formulation of questions / hypotheses, designing studies that address these questions / hypotheses, collecting and managing ‘evidence’ through various data management techniques, making sense, and disseminating findings
• Acquire and demonstrate a research-based orientation to real world and scientific problems
• Use Information and communication technology e.g. WWW, databases, statistical software, Microsoft Office, and literature search tools, for a variety of generic and subject-specific purposes
• Work effectively and independently on a given project or task
• Work effectively in small groups and teams towards a common goal/outcome
• Work towards targets and deadlines under pressure through discipline and careful organisation
• Demonstrate personal organisation and time management skills through meeting multiple deadlines

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Has your undergraduate degree inspired you to learn more about the way people work?

Our MSc Psychology is an advanced fast-track conversion course for students with an undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology, or for those whose undergraduate Psychology degree was not accredited by the British Psychological Society.

This course combines the award of a Masters with eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society. The GBC is the minimum academic qualification required to work as a professional psychologist, so passing our course demonstrates that you have studied and acquired an advanced understanding in Masters-level study in psychology. With this qualification you will also be eligible to apply for professional training in any branch of professional psychology.

Our staff have a wide range of research interests, so you gain a critical and detailed understanding of the core areas of psychology, plus some specialisation, and learn research methods to an extent which will enable you to devise, carry out and analyse an empirical research project. Topics studied include:
-Visual and auditory perception and cognition
-Language, concepts, memory and attention
-The relation between brain and behaviour
-Developmental psychology
-Social psychology

Our research is challenging and ground-breaking, with 90% rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ (REF 2014), placing us in the top 15 in the UK. We are supported by some of the most prestigious funding bodies, including the European Commission and the Leverhulme Trust.

We are a warm and friendly Department, and we wish to welcome both graduates who have recently completed their studies, and mature students who may wish to upgrade their qualifications, refresh their CV, or return to academic study after a period of time away from education.

Our expert staff

Our academic staff include award-winning teachers and prize-winning researchers who are international experts in their own research areas.

The Cognitive and Developmental Psychology Group are researching attention, language, decision-making, and memory. Recent projects have investigated the psychology of energy reduction, the enhancement of human memory through technology, and improvements in the usability and design of transport maps.

The Social and Health Psychology Group work on motivations, needs, intercultural contact, and sexual attraction. Recent projects include the impacts of living and studying abroad, and how personal relative deprivation is linked to problem gambling.

The Cognitive and Sensory Neuroscience Group research brain function and human behaviour. Recently they have been working on projects on the neural processes underlying language production, how motivations are communicated through tone of voice, and how the brain performs 3D vision. They previously developed the BioAid mobile phone app that turns an iPhone into a biologically inspired hearing aid.

Our department is expanding, and has recently appointed a number of excellent researchers whose expertise increases the diversity and depth of our skills base.

Specialist facilities

We are committed to giving you the best access to state-of-the-art facilities in higher education, housed entirely within our purpose-built psychology building on our Colchester Campus:
-Dedicated laboratories including a virtual reality suite and an observation suite
-Specialist areas for experimental psychology, visual and auditory perception, developmental psychology and social psychology
-Study the development of perceptual and cognitive abilities in infants in our Babylab
-Our multimillion pound Centre for Brain Science (CBS) contains specialist laboratories, office space for research students, and research rooms and social spaces which foster opportunities for innovation, training, and collaboration

Your future

With the skills and knowledge you acquire from studying within our Department of Psychology, you will find yourself in demand from a wide range of employers.

Recent graduates of MSc Psychology have found employment as a research assistant at the Anna Freud Centre, a clinical psychologist for the NHS, a child psychologist for Children First and a lecturer at the University of Surrey. Other graduates have been employed in clinical psychology, educational psychology, criminal and forensic psychology.

We also have excellent links with the research community; we are recognised by the ESRC as providing excellent postgraduate training and are an accredited Doctoral Training Centre, offering several studentships.

Our recent PhD students have taken up post-doctoral positions in other top UK universities and international universities (in the US, Italy and Australia), as well as being appointed to lectureships.

Example structure

-Brain and Behaviour
-Personality and Individual Differences
-Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology
-Advanced Cognitive Psychology I
-Advanced Cognitive Psychology II
-Advanced Social Psychology
-Advanced Developmental Psychology
-Research Project (MSc)
-Fundamentals of Neuroscience and Neuropsychology (optional)
-Special Topics in Individual Differences and Developmental Psychology (optional)
-Cognitive Neuropsychology of Language (optional)
-Critical Literature Review (optional)
-Special Topics in Perception and Cognition (optional)
-Special Topics in Social Psychology (optional)

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The MSc in Psychology is a conversion programme that provides graduates in disciplines other than psychology with the opportunity to obtain the Graduate Basis for Chartered membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS).

GBC allows you to pursue postgraduate training in applied areas of psychology associated with the Societies’ Divisions (e.g. Educational, Clinical Psychology etc). GBC is the first step toward gaining status as a Chartered Psychologist.

What will I study?

You will cover all the core areas of psychology as specified and required by the British Psychological Society for the accreditation of conversion courses.

You will examine the nature of personality and individual differences, including intelligence, developmental patterns and changes in social and cognitive abilities, interpersonal behaviour and the impact of social contexts on behaviour.

Exploring Cognitive Language and Biological Psychology, you will gain an understanding of the role of biology in underpinning behaviour and the nature of attention, perception, language and memory.

A research methods module will equip you with the ability to organise, analyse, interpret and report findings of research involving quantitative (numerical) data before you are introduced to approaches to qualitative research and analysis.

The programme concludes with a Masters dissertation in an area of psychology of particular interest to you. This will be supervised by a member of academic staff in the department.

How will I study?

Teaching methods follow a variety of formats from traditional style lectures to tutorials, seminars and workshops.

How will I be assessed?

Most modules are assessed by a mixture of examination and coursework though some are assessed solely by coursework.

Coursework assignments might be essays, research project reports, group presentations or the critical analysis of research papers.

Who will be teaching me?

Psychology is a rapidly growing department at Edge Hill University, currently with eighteen members of staff. The programme team are all research active, particularly in the areas of thinking and reasoning, work psychology, psychological aspects of substance abuse, counselling, close relationships and the functioning of working memory.

Members of the team have been published in major national and international peer reviewed journals such as The British Journal of Psychology, The Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology, The Journal of Experimental Psychology and Learning, Memory and Cognition, Cognitive Neuropsychology, Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, Psychological Review, and Human Perception and Performance.

What are my career prospects?

The programme is accredited with the British Psychological Society to provide eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).

There are two clearly identifiable career routes. Firstly, successful completion of this programme will open up a number of further postgraduate training and career opportunities, notably educational psychology, clinical psychology, work psychology, health psychology and teaching and research in further and higher education.

Secondly, you will be well qualified to enter a wide range of professions from advertising and the caring professions, through to personnel or teaching (further training required). The Psychology team at Edge Hill University has a strong record of research and encourages new graduates to register for higher degrees such as MPhil and PhD.

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