Masters Degrees (Rehabilitation Psychology)

Overview

This course provides education and training in research and clinical skills relevant to people’s physical and psychological rehabilitation, chronic illness and disability.

Is this for you?

The course is designed for psychology graduates and those working as part of a multidisciplinary team as assistant psychologists, or conducting rehabilitation research in healthcare settings.

It is also suitable as a preparation for clinical psychology training. There is a focus on clinical application throughout the course: how to use what you learn in practical settings.

What will you gain?

On the MSc in Rehabilitation Psychology you will:

• Learn about the impact of physical illness and disability on psychological functioning
• Understand issues related to assessment, rehabilitation and recovery of people with physical illness and disability
• Develop in-depth knowledge about rehabilitation for people with neurological conditions
• Evaluate evidence about the effectiveness of rehabilitation
• Develop the ability to apply psychological knowledge within a rehabilitation context
• Receive training in research and clinical skills relevant to working as a psychologist in healthcare and research
• Design and conduct a research project in your area of interest

On graduation, you will have received a thorough grounding the relevant theories, and be able to work more effectively in rehabilitation settings. By expanding your research skills you will also be able to engage in evidence-based clinical practice in your future career.

Why Nottingham?

The MSc Rehabilitation Psychology benefits from the Division of Rehabilitation and Ageing's established expertise in areas such as chronic illness, neuropsychological rehabilitation, complex interventions and web-based research. Our teaching is informed by current research. We believe that research and teaching should be developed and delivered together, to help students and staff make a difference in the real world. We are proud to welcome a truly international community and, although this course provides training in skills that are relevant to the UK’s National Health Service, it will also provide an excellent foundation in Rehabilitation Psychology for international students.

Teaching methods

Teaching is delivered by a wide range of staff and guest lecturers, including local clinical psychologists and other multidisciplinary clinicians. Some modules are shared with students on other courses such as the MSc in Health Psychology as well as other courses within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. However, the MSc in Rehabilitation Psychology is distinct in its focus on issues related to rehabilitation.

The MSc in Rehabilitation Psychology is delivered on a full-time basis over one year or part-time over two years.

Modules

You will study the following modules during the course:

• Clinical Skills
• Assessment of Cognitive Function
• Stroke
• Introduction in Research Methods
• Cognitive Rehabilitation and Evaluation
• Theoretical Foundations of Rehabilitation
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Quantitative Methods

Please note that all module details are subject to change.
During the second semester and during the summer period you will undertake a rehabilitation research project. This is your opportunity to complete a piece of professional applied research under the supervision of a suitably experienced member of academic staff.

Career Opportunities

The MSc in Rehabilitation Psychology will be of value to psychology graduates who have an interest in working in healthcare settings, as psychology assistants conducting research in rehabilitation and healthcare, or as a preparation for clinical psychology training.

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The Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course aims to provide a high level of understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology within healthcare settings and prepares students for professional clinical training.

Key Features of the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology

Performance:

• One of four Psychology departments to achieve a 100% 4* rating (maximum score possible) for the reach and significance of its work in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014. Based on this measure Psychology at Swansea was ranked 14th (out of 82) in the UK.
• Our Psychology department is ranked 5th in the UK for Graduate Prospects by The Times and Sunday Times University League Tables 2018.

Teaching and Employability:

• State-of-the-art technology, with over 20 general purpose research rooms and numerous specialised testing facilities
• Majority of teaching carried out by practicing and/or qualified Clinical Psychologists and related professionals
• Unique range of modules offered
• Proven track record of assisting students’ progression towards clinical psychology training as well as range of clinical mental health-related occupational roles
• Numerous NHS clinical based placements secured, providing valuable experience on the journey to becoming a Clinical Psychologist.

Clinical psychology focuses on the challenges faced by people with clinical, mental or physical (neuropsychological) health conditions. The role of the clinical psychologist is to work with these individuals and attempt to improve their quality of life.

The Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course will greatly enhance students’ suitability for professional clinical training, for example a three year DClin Clinical Psychology programme at a BPS accredited training centre.

Entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate training programme is extremely competitive, with candidates usually expected to have acquired training and experience beyond degree level. 

The MSc degree provides a valuable academic foundation for future doctoral training in clinical psychology, it is largely theory-based and is designed to address core topics in abnormal and clinical psychology.

Clinical training courses also look for evidence of clinical experience with relevant client groups.

Swansea University does not provide this directly, but work experience (paid and voluntary) may be available through the local NHS Psychology Services. Opportunities may also be available locally through independent and private sector organisations (e.g. Mind Cymru, Headway, private rehabilitation services, etc.). These opportunities are regularly advertised and students are supported in making the most of them. 

Please note this course does not lead to a clinical qualification recognised by the British Psychological Society. 

Modules

Modules on the MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology may include:

• Eating Disorders
• Psychosis
• Personality and Sexual Disorders
• Neuropsychology
• Statistical and Research Methods
• Affective and Somatoform Disorders
• Applied Behaviour Analysis
• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Coping with Chronic Disease
• Psychotherapy
• Research Project

Abnormal and Clinical Psychology Course Structure

The one year, full-time degree for Abnormal and Clinical Psychology requires students to attend the University for two full days a week (normally Monday and Tuesday).

The two-year part-time degree requires students to attend the University for one full day a week.

In the first two semesters taught modules are provided with the research project typically undertaken during the summer months.

On occasion sessions are arranged on other days of the week (e.g. when visiting clinician talks/workshops or employability sessions). 

Teaching is done via group sessions with practical classes provided on research and design topics. These will be assessed via written course work and a written examination. 

Who Should Apply?

The MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology is suitable for:

• UK and international psychology graduates seeking positions as Assistant Psychologists (both in the UK and abroad) as part of their journey towards becoming a BPS Chartered Clinical Psychologist
• Psychology graduates aiming to work in related fields of applied psychology and other areas of clinical mental health
• Healthcare and other clinical professionals looking to expand their understanding of particular areas of abnormal and clinical psychology
• Psychology graduates who have relevant work experience to apply for further clinical training, but who need to enhance their academic and research skills
• Psychology graduates looking to complete a PhD by Research in a clinically applied area

Staff Expertise

Many of the College of Human and Health Sciences team are leaders in their specialist fields of research. They undertake novel and original research in a variety of areas, including clinical and health psychology, brain injury, sleep, cognition, neuroscience and developmental psychology.

Find out more about the Psychology team at Swansea University.

Postgraduate Community

The College of Human and Health Sciences has a vibrant postgraduate community with students drawn from a variety of backgrounds and nationalities. The College is known for its friendly, welcoming and supportive environment, which combined with its extensive facilities, state-of-the-art technology and superb beachside location, helps to ensure that students benefit from an exceptional student experience. In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.

Student Testimonials

Here's what students had to say about the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology MSc:

“Completing the MSc has been very beneficial, as in addition to improving my academic knowledge and skills, as well as confidence, it has enabled me to quickly secure employment in this field”. Sam (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2013-14)

“The level of expertise of the lecturers is second to none” Katie (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2011-12)

“An outstanding and highly interesting MSc program” Vasilis (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“Thanks to my masters, I am in such a good placement in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a multi-speciality hospital's Cardiology Unit” Phoram (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“I'm now an Assistant Psychologist in Cardiff, and I do not think I would have had a chance of getting such a post if I didn't have the MSc. I'm really glad I did it!” - Bryn (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2008-09)

“The MSc helped me to get my first assistant post and provided me with a good academic basis to pursue a career in clinical psychology. I am now undertaking the DClin Psych course in Oxford!” - Nicola (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2007-08)

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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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In Walden’s MS in Developmental Psychology online program, you can acquire and apply knowledge of human growth and development to advance your career in hospitals, advocacy organizations, research institutions, or nonprofits.

Our online master’s in developmental psychology program is geared toward the working professional. In this career-oriented program, you will interpret research and apply your learning to address the needs of diverse populations—and promote lasting change in the lives of children, teens, and adults.

The MS in Developmental Psychology program is not designed to prepare students to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional.

Save Time and Money Toward Your PhD

If you are interested in teaching, researching, or consulting, you can accelerate your progress toward a PhD by applying credits to Walden’s PhD in Developmental Psychology program.

Why Earn Your Online Master’s in Developmental Psychology From Walden?

• With Walden, you have the opportunity to study in a master’s program focused on developmental psychology. You can choose the General Program or six specializations to tailor your study to what interests you most.
• The program’s coursework addresses relevant, contemporary societal issues. You can study current topics such as the effects of digital technology on human development and explore the needs of specific populations, such as LGBTQ, to make a lasting difference for people of all ages and backgrounds.
• You can gain a global perspective from a diverse community of faculty and students as you examine international issues such as mass migration and refugee crises.

Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of this program, you will be prepared to:

1. Describe the theoretical foundations of developmental psychology.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply principles of developmental psychology in areas of cognitive, language, social, and emotional functioning across the human development lifespan.
3. Synthesize principles of developmental psychology theory and research.
4. Apply principles of developmental psychology theory and research to real-world educational, social, health, and other settings.
5. Interpret psychological theory and research related to developmental psychology.
6. Describe developmental psychological theory, research, and practice from a multicultural and/or global perspective.
7. Promote positive social change through the application of developmental psychology theory, research, and practice to scholarly and/or professional activities that promote positive social change.

Find detailed information for this program, including possible occupations, completion rate, program costs, and median student loan debt.

Curriculum

• General Program 
• Administration and Leadership 
• Adult Development and Gerontology
• Child and Adolescent Development 
• Health and Human Development 
• International Perspectives in Developmental Psychology
• Self-Designed

Career options

With an MS in Developmental Psychology, you can work in a variety of settings, such as:

• Public and private hospitals
• Educational settings, including early childhood education centers
• Community organizations
• Senior centers or nursing and residential care facilities
• Nonprofit human service organizations
• Crisis intervention programs
• Rehabilitation centers
• Research institutions
• Mental health facilities
• Advocacy and policy organizations
• Individual and family services agencies
• Youth and adult correctional facilities
• Research, healthcare, or special education coordination and support organizations

Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this program.

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Course Overview

The MSc Forensic Psychology is the only BPS accredited programme in Wales, offering a unique opportunity for students to study Forensic Psychology in Wales. Working collaboratively with NOMS Cymru (National Offender Management Services, Wales), helps keep the programme up to date with strategy development and policy decisions. Regular contributions from practitioners within the Principality enable students to understand more about services within Wales and their impact on our society locally. We also have many national contributors who share their extensive knowledge and experience.​

Due to the popularity of this programme you should submit your application at the earliest opportunity, and at the very latest by 29th July. ​

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

​Course Content​​

Forensic Psychology is the practice and application of psychological research relevant to crime, policing, the courts, the criminal and civil justice system, offenders, prison, secure settings, offender management, health and academic settings as well as private practice.

It looks at the role of environmental, psychosocial, and socio-cultural factors that may contribute to crime or its prevention. The primary aim of Forensic Psychology as an academic discipline is to develop understanding of the processes underlying criminal behaviour and for this improved understanding to impact on the effective management and rehabilitation of different groups of offenders in all settings within the criminal justice system.

The first aim of the programme is to provide students with a thorough and critical academic grounding in the evidence relating to environmental, cultural, cognitive and biological factors that may contribute to a wide variety of forms of offending. The programme will encourage students to consider the role and limitations of causal explanations for offending in the development of offender treatments, services and policy.

The second aim of the programme is to introduce students to the basic professional competencies for working in the many settings where forensic psychology is practiced, including skills related to inter-disciplinary working, risk assessment, ethics, continuing professional development, report writing and differences in practice when working with offenders, victims, the courts and the police.

The programme aims to produce Masters degree graduates with the ability to understand the limitations of the conceptual underpinnings of interventions and assessments used in forensic psychology and who are able therefore to engage in critical evaluation of the evidence base upon which their own practice will eventually be based. The programme will specifically avoid providing any formal supervised practice. Its aim is to produce reflective scientist-practitioners who will be ready to engage with the next stage of training (i.e. BPS Stage 2 or HCPC route) towards registration as a Forensic Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Students will complete the following taught modules and will also be required to conduct a novel, supervised research dissertation with participants preferably drawn from a forensic setting:

Research Methods and Design (30 credits)
The aim of this module is to extend students knowledge and experience of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Topics covered include: randomised control trials, ANOVA, ANCOVA, MANOVA, Power analysis, Regression, Non parametric methods, interviews, discourse analysis, grounded theory, reflective analysis and psychometric evaluation.

Forensic Mental Health (20 credits)
This module aims to provide students with a critical examination of the relationship between mental illness, personality disorder, learning disability and criminal behaviour. The module will encourage students to view the mental health needs of offenders in the broadest possible context and to appreciate the inter-disciplinary nature of services available to mentally disordered offenders, difficulties in accessing those services and problems for custodial adjustment presented by specific psychiatric diagnoses

Professional Practice and Offender Management (20 credits)
The focus of this module is the professional practice of forensic psychology. The module builds on the groundwork laid by earlier modules and covers professional skills and the types of interventions that a practicing forensic psychologist may engage in. The topics covered by this module include ethics, report writing, working with other agencies, and working with offenders and victims.

Psychological Assessments and Interventions (20 credits)
This module covers psychology as it may be applied to the reduction of re-offending by convicted criminals. The central focus of the module is the 'what works' literature. A range of topics will be covered demonstrating the broad application of psychology to offender rehabilitation in the Criminal Justice System, and within Wales particularly. These topics include: (1) Offender assessment: risk, need and protective factors (2) factors affecting response to treatment; (3) ethical issues of compulsory treatment; and (4) interventions for a range of offending behaviours.

Theories of Criminal Behaviour (10 credits)
The module aims to examine the contribution made by biological, psychodynamic, evolutionary, cognitive and socio-cultural perspectives to our understanding of the aetiology of criminal behaviour. It will explore psychological theories of a variety of offending behaviours such as: violence, aggression, domestic abuse, sex offending, vehicle crime, fire setting as well as gangs and gangs membership.

Legal Psychology (10 credits)
This module covers psychology as it may be applied to the law, and the central focus of the module is evidence. A range of topics will be covered, demonstrating the broad application of psychology within the legal system. These topics include the interviewing of suspects and witnesses, vulnerable victims, offender profiling and the detection of deception.

Addiction and Psychological Vulnerabilities (10 credits)
This module informs students about different factors that may contribute to psychological vulnerability in offenders and victims. A variety of topics will be covered, including issues around the concept of addictive behaviours, vulnerability and the protection of vulnerable adults, including factors which may increase vulnerability to offending and victimisation.

Learning & Teaching​

​Teaching on the MSc Forensic Psychology Programme is predominantly conducted in small groups and adopts an interactive approach. The Research Methods and Design module and the Dissertation workshops are the only part of the programme which is taught in a larger group of around 40 to 50 students as opposed to between 10 and 20 students on the core modules. As a result teaching involves a range of discussions, activities, evaluations of papers, case studies and role play exercises. The focus within the programme is on both content and key skills to develop specialists in the field of forensic psychology with flexible generic skills. These experiences also help to foster student development and confidence as independent life-long learners.

Student learning is promoted through a variety of learning and teaching methods. These include: lectures, workshops, online learning through the virtual learning environment, Moodle, as well as self directed learning. Each student will have an allocated personal tutor to support them through their period of study.

As this programme is accredited by the BPS, there is a requirement for students to attend at least 80% of the taught sessions for the programme.

Assessment

The MSc is assessed by a range of different coursework assignments – e.g. presentations, reports, essays, reflective reports, academic posters, research proposal. There are no examinations.

Employability & Careers​

An MSc in Forensic Psychology is the first step (stage one) in gaining Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Registered Practitioner status with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). The MSc in Forensic Psychology will provide the knowledge base and applied research skills that will provide the foundation for stage two of the chartered process that requires a minimum of two years of full-time supervised practice with an appropriate client group.

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

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

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The MSc in Psychology is a conversion course for individuals already possessing an undergraduate degree in a field other than Psychology but who wish to develop a professional career in Psychology. Previous study of psychology is not required.

By providing the requisite knowledge and skills for post-graduate education and training, this conversion course is the key gateway to a career in clinical, counselling, forensic, health, educational, occupational or other areas of Psychology.

Our previous Graduate Diploma level conversion course was accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and satisfied the requirements for the Graduate Basis of Chartership of the BPS. This new Masters level conversion course is awaiting accreditation by the BPS and we expect to achieve accreditation by June 2017.

Psychology is an exceptionally versatile degree because it offers understanding of many aspects of human behaviour, applicable to many sectors of society, such as education, health, business and social welfare. The course is amongst the first in the UK to teach the core curriculum in an integrated fashion, which brings together different approaches to psychology within each module and thereby provides a deeper and richer understanding of human behaviour.

Having knowledge of the processes that underlie and influence learning, memory, social interactions, feelings, thinking and communication, combined with the development of skills in critical thinking and research, will put you in an excellent position for further post-graduate training or future employment.

Modules

Emotion and human behaviour
Perception, attention and memory
Social behaviour
Thinking, intelligence and communication
Psychological Research Methods 1+2
Masters Empirical Research Project

Assessment

We use a range of assessment methods within the Division of Psychology for different modules. The range of previously used methods are:

Essays
Practical/research reports
Unseen exams
Multiple choice questions
Scenario based reports
Case studies
Posters and presentations
Executive reports
Portfolios
Group work folders

Employability

As most psychology graduates will go into a wide range of careers, there is no such thing as a traditional career path for graduates. A majority of psychology graduates decide to pursue careers in other fields and as psychology graduates, they leave with an almost unmatched range of transferable skills, from excellent written and analytical skills to an understanding of how people behave.

However if you do want to stay in psychology, then a conversion course, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), together with an appropriate qualification within the specific field of psychology could lead you to a career as a Chartered Psychologist in clinical, forensic, educational or occupational psychology. Although our previous conversion course and all our existing undergraduate courses are accredited by the BPS, this new Masters level conversion course is awaiting accreditation from the BPS and we expect this to be achieved by June 2017.

This course will teach you excellent written, analytical and numerical skills which will enable you to pursue a wide range of careers in areas such as counselling, teaching, the probation and court services, market research, human resources and business.

Careers support

Our department provides careers support and advice for the time our students study with us and beyond. We organise various careers activities such as talks and seminars, and have arranged work placements in collaboration with many organisations. For example:

• NHS clinics and hospital units (psychosexual, forensic and clinical psychology units)
• brain damage units
• addiction rehabilitation units
• charitable organisations working with stroke patients
• children with disabilities
• young offenders

We also hold an annual careers fair for our second and third year students and work closely with London South Bank University alumni who have gone on to successful careers in Psychology.

Career progression

Recent graduates have gone onto roles such as Assistant Psychologist (Clinical), Research Assistant, Social Worker, Mental Health Support Worker, and Mental Health Nurse.

If you graduate from this course, you'll be able to apply for further study at postgraduate level. The academic strength of this course means that you can also consider entering the field of academic research (e.g. a recent student has just started studying for a PhD)

If you gain significant professional practice experience you would be able to consider a practitioner MSc course such as our part-time MSc Addiction Psychology and Counselling.

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The MSc Investigative & Forensic Psychology is a one year, full-time postgraduate programme. It is accredited by the British Psychological Society and recognised as the first step towards status as a Chartered Forensic Psychologist in the UK for students who have Graduate Basis for Chartership. The course is also recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as a Research Methods MSc and students taking this course are eligible for the ESRC 1 + 3 studentships.

The MSc provides students with a high quality, balanced postgraduate programme of research and academic knowledge including, awareness of professional, legal and ethical issues, and practical, communication and dissemination skills in Investigative and Forensic Psychology. The programme takes a three-tiered approach.

Students begin with structured sessions on conceptual and theoretical issues (including aggression, sexual violence and deviance, decision-making, leadership and stress, memory, communication and persuasion, and the psychology of crowd dynamics).

They then appreciate how these and related issues can be applied to forensic practice and its legal context (in terms of crime reduction and intervention studies; investigative procedures, forensic interviewing, court processes and proceedings, assessment, custody and rehabilitation).

Finally, they gain skills in communicating knowledge and conducting relevant research on case assessments of individuals and organisations

Why Choose Investigative and Forensic Psychology?

- This course is unique in that it is the only MSc accredited course of its type in a Russell Group University. It is viewed worldwide by many to be the home of Investigative Psychology
- The number and calibre of external practitioners whom deliver key understanding of real life applications, makes the MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology distinct from any other.
- The University of Liverpool has the largest representation of psychologists in Europe, who are research active on Law Enforcement projects.
- High quality teaching and a strong focus on employability skills mean that our students have gone on to be some of the most successful individuals in the field.
- The MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology is renowned worldwide and attracts a large number of International students and visiting speakers each year. In an increasingly global world it is important to raise awareness of the role cultural factors play in psychological functioning and how these may differ from the findings of mainstream Western research.
- This MSc Investigative and Forensic Psychology was the first course of its type to receive five commendations by the British Psychological Society.

Key Facts

Research Assessment Exercise 2008
Targeting our key areas of interest we've systematically enhanced our research base, culture and infrastructure, whilst building internationally influential groups.

Our work is theoretically robust and problem and policy focused, with a research agenda that's socially relevant and postgraduate teaching that's truly research-led.

Why School of Psychology?

Breadth and choice

Reflecting our main research strengths, we offer two one-year, full-time, taught Masters (MSc) programmes in:

Investigative and Forensic Psychology
Research Methods in Psychology.
For details of all MRes/MPhil/PhD and MD opportunities in the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, see the Research course list at http://www.liv.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/

Professionally recognised

The Investigative and Forensic Psychology course is recognised by the Division of Forensic Psychology (DFP, British Psychological Society) and counts towards Chartered Forensic Status.

Innovative research

As home to the Centre for Investigative Psychology, we continue to stretch the boundaries of psychological inquiry with innovative research activity.

We've highly active, internationally renowned research groups and, in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (2008), 80% of our research activity was rated as of international standard.

Our partners

Our partners include local hospitals and schools, the Regional Neurological and Neurosurgical NHS Trust, Prison Psychology departments, national and international Police Forces and associated Law Enforcement Agencies. There are also close links with other University departments in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences; in particular, Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience, and Human Anatomy. Numerous collaborations exist between members of staff and their colleagues in other academic institutions both nationally and internationally.

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Supporting the requirements of the British Psychological Society’s Division of Forensic Psychology, this course focuses of developing the expertise and qualities you will need to gain employment at a senior level.

Covering all the main topics and involving advanced study in research methods and professional skills, you will receive stage one training towards becoming a chartered psychologist.

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

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

Course detail

• Study the links between scientific theory and practice, and learn to show how a critical understanding of theory may guide the collection and interpretation of empirical data
• Explore your ability to communicate forensic-related material using appropriate methods of delivery to other psychology and non-psychology professionals
• Develop a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current problems, and gain new insights into the theory and practice of forensic psychology
• Gain a high level of knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods which will allow you to perform complex data analysis, interpretation, evaluation and synthesis
• Benefit from an increased sense of personal responsibility and professionalism that will enable you to practice or conduct research within ethical guidelines while being aware of the requirements of equal opportunities and disabilities legislation.

Modules

• Advanced Research Methods For Forensic Psychology (PSY026-6) Compulsory
• Criminal Psychology (PSY023-6) Compulsory
• Dissertation (PSY031-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 1 (PSY028-6) Compulsory
• Forensic Psychology In Practice 2 (PSY029-6) Compulsory
• Investigative Psychology (PSY024-6) Compulsory
• Legal Psychology (PSY025-6) Compulsory
• Professional Skills For Forensic Psychologists (PSY030-6) Compulsory
• Rehabilitation & Recidivism (PSY027-6) 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 forensic psychologists as well as important in many employment settings. Communication skills are assessed through videotaped role play as these are very important in any career. The ability to analyse and understand issues and apply theory to practice are assessed through a consultancy brief.

Finally the important career skill of project management is assessed mainly through the research dissertation involving self-directed problem-based enquiry, managing time, reviewing evidence, generating and analysing data and communicating results in an extended piece of writing.

Careers

Forensic psychology can be evidenced in a range of settings such as the prison and probation service, the NHS, during criminal investigations and in community settings. However, the advanced route to registration in forensic psychology is only one possibility and, having completed your degree you will find that many career opportunities are open to you both inside and outside the forensic sector and psychology related fields. Whatever your thoughts, forensic psychology is compelling as both a discipline and a profession. Studying for the MSc in Forensic Psychology will give you a good grounding in:

• Applying what you learn to simulated real life contexts (e.g., in a courtroom setting)
• The unit on professional skills in particular develops the skills expected from a forensic psychologist and other professions dealing with challenging behaviours. These skills include motivational interviewing, report writing, training skills, working in multidisciplinary environments, building relationships with other professionals.
• Assessment of risks and needs.
• Working in multidisciplinary teams.
• Communication skills such as summarizing complex information to communicate to others.
• Complex problem solving.

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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This British Psychological Society accredited Forensic Psychology Masters is designed to prepare psychology graduates with the academic knowledge and practical skills necessary to conduct practical work and research within a forensic context.

Why choose this course?

It is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This means that by obtaining the MSc in Forensic Psychology you will also be completing the first stage in your professional training required by the BPS to become a qualified practitioner within the field of forensic psychology (Chartered Forensic Psychologist).

The focus on blending research and practical expertise is reflected in the Programme Team, which consists of forensic practitioners or academics who each have considerable experience working with offenders and victims in a range of forensic contexts in the UK.

Modules may include

Explanations of Crime, Criminal Behaviour and Victimology
Police, Justice System and Psychology
Prisons, Rehabilitation and Aftercare
Assessment, Formulation and Treatment of Offenders and Victims
Professional Forensic Practice and Reflective Practice Group
Qualitative Research Design and Analysis (One)
Mixed Methods
Advanced Experimentation and Statistics (One and Two)
Forensic Research Project

For more information about the modules that you may study on this course visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/forensicpsychology

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

NTU's Psychology Division is one of the largest in the UK, with a group of academics and practitioners who conduct and supervise research in a range of applied Forensic areas. The course is supported by a team of approachable staff, and delivered through taught modules; small group reflective practice sessions; and supervised individual research work.

Assessments will be diverse in format and will include:

examinations
essays
oral presentations
practical reports
consultancy report
a research project.

Careers

Students generally choose the MSc Forensic Psychology because they wish to qualify as a BPS Chartered and Health and Care Professions Council Registered forensic psychologist and to pursue a career in forensic psychology. Others may choose to use their qualification as a stepping stone toward doctoral training in clinical psychology, to work in criminal justice and mental health settings, e.g. police, prison, probation services, the NHS, and so on.

It is also possible to pursue an academic and/or research career in psychology following graduation (for example by working as a research assistant or associate, or by studying for a PhD). Indeed, your qualification in forensic psychology is likely to be popular with a whole range of potential employers because, in addition to possessing in-depth theoretical knowledge of forensic psychology, you will also have demonstrated an ability to write essays and reports and to present in front of other people (amongst other transferable skills).

Scholarships

The School of Social Sciences offers a number of competitive scholarships for our full-time and part-time Masters courses. For more information please visit http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3scholarships

Why not come along to one of our postgraduate open events to find out more and see our facilities? For further details please visit: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/s3events

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This course offers a masters-level qualification accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and confers eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership. It is particularly suitable if you have insufficient credit in psychology from your first degree to meet BPS accreditation criteria. The course covers all of the key subdisciplines of contemporary psychology and provides extensive training in related research skills.

-This course confers eligibility for graduate membership of the British Psychological Society with the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). This is the first step towards becoming a chartered psychologist.
-You will benefit from modern research labs and offices, as well as excellent computer facilities.
-The Psychology team is a friendly and dynamic group of researchers, experienced in teaching and in conducting internationally excellent research. The team has research links with universities in Australia, the US and Europe. In addition, eminent psychologists from across the UK present findings from the latest research in psychology, keeping your learning at the cutting edge.

What will you study?

In addition to providing a broad (yet detailed) overview of the subject of psychology, this course promotes critical appraisal in relation to psychological models, theories and methodologies. You will conduct practical research exercises and will produce a substantial research-based dissertation in an area of psychology of your choice (subject to availability). You will acquire skills in data analysis, statistical methods, project design, oral presentations, teamwork and report writing - all of which are sought-after skills by employers.

Assessment

Essays, in-class tests, presentations, unseen examinations, laboratory reports and a dissertation.

Course structure

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Core modules
-Cognition and Biological Psychology
-Methods and Statistics for MSc Psychology
-Psychology Dissertation
-The Person in Psychology

Optional modules
-Advanced Developmental Psychology
-Applications of Psychological Research
-Critical Social Psychology: Memory, Narrative and Representation
-Neuropsychology and Neuro-rehabilitation
-Psychology of Art and Film
-The Psychology of Health and Well Being

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This excellent course enables you to gain the wide range of counselling psychology competencies needed to be eligible to apply for chartered status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

In the most recent (2014-15) Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey, 100% of graduates from this course were in work or further study within six months.

More about this course

The Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology is a three-year full-time, four-year part-time taught doctoral programme leading to a doctoral qualification that automatically confers professional registration with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC), accreditation as a fully qualified chartered counselling psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS), and recognition within the UK and the EU as a chartered counselling psychologist eligible to practice.

The programme offers a sound and marketable model, combining in-depth competency in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), strong humanistic values, and psychodynamic awareness. The course was re-accredited by the HCPC and the BPS in 2012. It was commended for the depth and breadth of the modules offered; a number of our modules were described as cutting-edge and very well suited to the current zeitgeist and employment market. These modules include a first-year module devoted to working with difference and diversity, and a third-year service evaluation research exercise.

Run by a dedicated team of HCPC registered and BPS accredited chartered counselling and clinical psychologists, this course offers wide-ranging and high quality clinical and research expertise to trainees. Course team members have between one and 11 years of post-qualification clinical experience, and two thirds hold PhD or professional doctoral titles. Two thirds of the staff are academically published authors.

While student numbers are growing, the team prides itself on retaining a small cohort each year of no more than 20 students. This enables us to offer you a relatively high volume of individual attention from staff. All students are assigned a personal tutor and two research supervisors. You are offered a relatively high proportion of research supervision (10 hours in Year 1 and 20 hours each year in Years 2 and 3); safe spaces for clinical group supervision and skills practice; and an experiential and workshop style of teaching and learning. Trainees and staff develop collaborative relationships in relation to learning and personal development.

The programme has a dedicated placements coordinator, and an extensive online placement provider database, accessible prior to training commencement. We offer a comprehensive placements induction in the first week of training, and we encourage and support you to be in placement or at interview stage with placement providers by the beginning of your training.

The first year of training is the equivalent of a Master’s year. Students who exit at the end of Year 1 are eligible for an MSc in Psychological Therapies. This MSc offers eligibility to register with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), leading to clinical practice in either in public, private or third sector organisations. However, the course has high student retention rates, with the majority of students continuing from the MSc level into the doctoral level of training in Years 2 and 3. Student satisfaction within the programme is very high; feedback forms regularly comment on the high quality and breadth of teaching, the clinical and research expertise of the lecturers, and the dedication of the staff, both at a personal and professional level. Our students feel valued and attended to by the teaching team because the size of each cohort allows for a more tailored experience for each student.

Through postgraduate teaching and workshops across the wider applied psychology subject area, London Met counselling psychology trainees develop advanced levels of knowledge and skills in a broad range of qualitative and quantitative psychological research methods. The course emphasises criticality, epistemological critique and reflexivity across all research teaching and learning. Extensive support in the form of individual and group supervision and teaching is offered, alongside methodology learning, to support trainees in undertaking a piece of doctoral level research that will make an original contribution to the professional practice of counselling psychology, and more widely.

As trainees you will develop a wide range of intellectual and practical skills and knowledge. The training has a solid track record of trainees emerging as robust, sophisticated, and highly employable practitioners of counselling psychology. In recent years, we are proud that a number of our trainees have won BPS Division of Counselling Psychology trainee prizes for written assignments and research poster presentations.

The principle aims and achievements of the course are to produce graduates who are:
-Competent, informed, reflective, ethical and professionally sound practitioners of counselling psychology who are able to work in a range of settings and are committed to their own on-going personal and professional development
-Able to understand, develop and apply models of advanced psychological inquiry and research that enable the creation of new knowledge and which recognise the complex nature of human experience and relationships
-Able to adopt a questioning and evaluative approach to the philosophy, practice, research and theory that constitutes counselling psychology and aware of the wider social, cultural and political domains within which counselling psychology operates
-In possession of a set of skills and competencies that are transferable to a wide variety of professional contexts and which enhance employability
-Able to demonstrate the range of counselling psychology competencies needed to be eligible to apply for chartered status with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Many students are conducting research in collaboration with National Health Service (NHS) Trusts or non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Graduates find permanent employment within a few months post-qualification, with many trainees holding part-time clinical employment whilst they are in the final year of the training because their clinical skills and knowledge are of such a high standard. Other graduates from the programme find work in academia in visiting or permanent teaching posts or as research fellows.

The course is involved in on-going in-house events and conferences such as CultureShock, and in research and clinical collaborations with five NHS trusts. The programme is also involved in research and in the training of clinical staff with the Freedom from Torture Foundation and Khulisa, both community based organisations close to the Holloway Campus. The programme is also collaborating with the School of Social Sciences and School of Social Professions to link interpreters with clinicians and to establish training inside and outside the University on working with interpreters in mental health settings.

Assessment

A wide range of assessment methods is used on the programme. In Year 1 you'll complete seven master's level assignments, including a reflective essay, case formulation, process report, examination and two short research assignments using qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

You'll also complete a 7,000-word reflexive critical literature review and a 3,000-word proposal towards the end of Year 1. Your proposal must demonstrate an adequate basis for a doctoral level research project for you to proceed into Year 2 of the programme. Year 1 is the most intensive period of assessment on the programme.

If you progress to Year 2 you'll complete an extended clinical case study, integrative process analysis and theoretical essay at the end of the year, reflecting cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic learning. At the end of Year 3 a similar assignment is completed, reflecting a trans-theoretical, pluralistic perspective. You should complete your research project by the end of Year 3, submitting a 25,000 word thesis and subsequently participating in a viva voce examination.

You'll receive research supervision to guide your research throughout the programme. Research progress is formally monitored and evaluated through the submission of annual reports to the Research and Postgraduate Office in Years 2 and 3.

You are required to complete a minimum of 450 clinical hours in a range of placements under supervision over the duration of the programme, as well as a minimum of 60 hours of your own personal therapy.

Supervisors complete six-monthly practice competency evaluations, which enable bidirectional feedback and reflection on your progress and continuing professional development in your practice placements. Your personal and professional development is individually monitored and supported throughout the programme via annual reviews and appraisals with a tutor from the programme team.

Professional accreditation

The Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology leads to a doctoral qualification that automatically confers professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accreditation as a fully qualified chartered counselling psychologist with the British Psychological Society.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2016/17 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules include:
-Advanced Research Design and Analysis for Psychology (core, 20 credits)
-Counselling Psychology Practice and Development (core, 20 credits)
-Professional and Ethical Issues (core, 20 credits)
-Psychological Knowledge and Models of Therapy (core, 20 credits)
-Research Project and Critical Skills (core, 60 credits)
-Therapeutic and Reflective Skills (core, 20 credits)
-Working with Difference and Diversity (core, 20 credits)

Year 2 modules include:
-Advanced Psychological Research (core, 160 credits)
-Advanced Psychological Theory and Practice 1 (core, 100 credits)
-Advanced Psychological Theory and Practice 2 (core, 100 credits)

After the course

Career opportunities for counselling psychologists include posts in a variety of areas. These include National Health Service (NHS) settings such as primary care, Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services, community mental health, drug and alcohol, rehabilitation, eating and personality disorder services, as well as the prison service, voluntary sector, private practice, academia, training, supervision, management and consultancy.

Graduates from the programme frequently go on work in one or more of these areas. Some have gone on to provide practice placements or to supervise or teach students on the programme. The range of advanced clinical and research skills and abilities gained through the course prepare graduates to undertake work in a variety of fields of activity.

Moving to one campus

Between 2016 and 2020 we're investing £125 million in the London Metropolitan University campus, moving all of our activity to our current Holloway campus in Islington, north London. This will mean the teaching location of some courses will change over time.

Whether you will be affected will depend on the duration of your course, when you start and your mode of study. The earliest moves affecting new students will be in September 2017. This may mean you begin your course at one location, but over the duration of the course you are relocated to one of our other campuses. Our intention is that no full-time student will change campus more than once during a course of typical duration.

All students will benefit from our move to one campus, which will allow us to develop state-of-the-art facilities, flexible teaching areas and stunning social spaces.

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This Masters degree examines the relationship between lifestyle and health and looks at the ways in which people react to ill health.

Our unique learning environment gives you first-hand practical experience of a range of intervention and measurement techniques that are not normally available on courses of this kind, including biological assessment sessions, and access to a sleep centre and a stress laboratory.

Delivered by a team of leading researchers and expert practitioners and accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), this course delivers a comprehensive understanding of modern-day health psychology and will equip you with the skills to take you into the workplace.

The Department of Psychology’s world-renowned research centres have delivered more than £5 million of research in the last five years.

This course can also be taken part time - for more information, please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/health-psychology-dtphpy6/

Learn From The Best

The course is delivered by an expert team of researchers and practitioners whose backgrounds range from sleep science to stress analysis. As all members of the teaching team are actively involved in research and practice – including many lecturers who also provide consultancy on a commercial basis – you can be sure all modules are highly relevant to current developments in the sector.

Several teaching sessions are delivered by visiting practitioners, providing you with first-hand accounts of health psychology in practice, whilst broadening your network of professional contacts.

Teaching And Assessment

The MSc in Health Psychology is a careful blend of research-led teaching and practical experience, covering the core areas of Health Psychology, as identified by the British Psychological Society.

While our teaching methods include traditional lectures, seminars and discussion groups, we place a strong emphasis on non-traditional methods including interactive and practical learning sessions. This approach has been developed around the techniques you will need in the workplace after graduation.

In addition to exam and essay-based assessment, we use a variety of innovative assessment methods to develop the skills you will need to progress in the health psychology field. These include ethics and funding applications, peer feedback, media releases and reports for non-academic audiences.

Module Overview
PY0770 - Health Psychology in Theory and Practice (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0771 - Lifespan, Individual and Cultural Perspectives on Health Psychology (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0772 - Psychosomatic Pathways to Health and Illness (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0773 - Systems Approaches to Understanding Health and Disease (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0774 - Qualitative and Quantitative Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0775 - Professional Skills (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0776 - MSc Thesis (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

Our specialist teaching laboratories are designed to maximise practical and theoretical learning. You will improve your analytical and interpretative skills using a combination of advanced statistical software packages, online survey platforms and psychophysiological measurement techniques. You will gain first-hand practical experience of a range of measurement and intervention techniques that are not available on other courses of this kind, and be supported to develop your own areas of expertise in work-based and research settings.

All postgraduate Psychology students have access to the PG hub for group and individual work. It also offers the opportunity for non-assessed group work, such as journal clubs.

Part-time students particularly benefit from online IT facilities which include electronic reading lists, lecture capture and feedback tools to support learning. Northumbria’s eLearning Portal includes discussion boards and a dedicated psychology area which provides a convenient communication forum when you’re off campus.

Research-Rich Learning

The course is delivered by expert practitioners and leading researchers in the field of health psychology who draw from their own experiences and wider contemporary research studies to ensure that you benefit from developments at the cutting edge of the discipline.

You will have first-hand experience of research techniques through case studies, workshops and published evidence. This approach strengthens your analytical skills and allows you to develop your own research interests and areas of expertise.

The thesis is an opportunity to conceptualise, plan and execute research, and to analyse and interpret data with real-world application. To extend the research focus of the course, your thesis will be written as a journal submission, which means you may be able to publish your paper.

Give Your Career An Edge

The course is accredited as Stage 1 training by the British Psychological Society. This, when accompanied by the BPS’ Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC), provides the basis for professional development as a practitioner on the completion of Stage 2 training.

A number of research and other work opportunities often arise through staff and their network of contacts. You will have the opportunity to meet a number of these contacts through teaching sessions with visiting industry experts and researchers.

Your Future

This career-focus of this Masters degree means graduates complete the course with a real understanding of research and practice in the world of health psychology as well as a thorough knowledge of cutting-edge issues in the sector and a range of transferable skills.

The course prepares you for careers in the areas of health promotion, healthcare delivery, illness management and rehabilitation. Previous graduates have gone on to work across the spectrum of health-related psychology disciplines locally, nationally and globally. Some work as assistant psychologists in the NHS, charitable organisations and the private sector, some have moved on to research posts, and others are undertaking PhDs. The broad skills-base means that health psychologists are also attractive to consultancy companies looking for expertise in training, research or intervention.

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Course content

The Sport & Exercise Psychology MSc is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

It is a one-year full time (with part time routes available) programme of study designed for graduates from either Psychology or Sport and Exercise Sciences who are seeking to gain professional recognition through the BPS Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology (QSEP).

Graduates would therefore practice as an Accredited Sport & Exercise Scientist.

The MSc will also act as a suitable postgraduate qualification for those seeking research positions and other professions.

Within the past decade there has been a marked growth in the career opportunities available for sport and exercise psychologists (eg, working with individual athletes or clubs, teaching in further and higher education and health promotion).

Coupled with such growth has also been an increased need for appropriately qualified and accredited individuals to fill such positions.

The British Psychological Society (BPS) has developed procedures for the accreditation of suitably experienced individuals that stipulate the possession of a relevant form of postgraduate qualification.

Similarly BASES require applicants for Supervised experience to also have a postgraduate qualification in a specialist discipline. 

The MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology therefore seeks to provide students with an opportunity to study at a postgraduate level to fulfill the initial requirements for BPS and BASES accreditation, to develop their specialist knowledge of the psychology and to increase their skills in applying such knowledge in both sporting and exercise populations.

Our facilities

Over the past few years, we have redeveloped both of our campuses so that you have the best facilities available as you study for your degree. We pride ourselves on the quality of the learning environment we can offer our students. All of our facilities are designed for academic teaching, research, British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions and for your social/recreational use throughout the week and weekends.

The world-class Tudor Hale Centre for Sport is the focus of sporting activities, both academic and recreational, at the University. The Tudor Hale Centre for Sport incorporates a suite of state of the art sport science laboratories, a sports injury clinic, a strength and conditioning room and a fitness suite. In addition, there is a sports hall used for basketball, netball, trampolining, badminton, volleyball, cricket, soccer, table tennis, hockey and ultimate frisbee.  Located beside the Tudor Hale Centre for Sport you will find our brand new Sports Dome, incorporating four indoor tennis courts, our all-weather astro turf pitch, and grass rugby pitch.

Facilities:

• Brand new Sports Dome, with four tennis courts, three netball courts
• Sports hall
• 110m synthetic athletics track
• Modern fitness suite
• Strength and conditioning room
• Two multi-purpose gymnasiums
• Indoor and outdoor climbing walls and climbing boulder
• Grass football and rugby pitches
• Outdoor netball and tennis court
• Floodlit synthetic Astro Turf pitch
• Two seminar rooms
• Cricket nets

Sport Science Laboratories:

• Four dedicated psychology labs
• Two dedicated biomechanics labs
• Five dedicated physiology labs
• An environmental chamber to simulate heat, altitude, etc
• A sports injury clinic and adjoining rehabilitation space

Where this can take you

We understand the importance of ensuring that you have the knowledge, skills and experience to compete successfully in today’s challenging jobs market.

The course prepares students for a range of graduate careers; our students have gone on to further work or training in a variety of fields including:

• Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Health Promotion
• Higher research Degrees (PhD)
• Teaching
• Sports science support personnel
• Sports coaching
• Exercise Referral
• Business management and recruitment

For those wishing to commence training for BPS QSEP Stage 2 and BASES SE, there are opportunities for supervision from academic staff who are qualified supervisors and associates of the Sports Performance Rehabilitation Unit.

Indicative modules

All students are required to complete six taught modules, five discipline modules and one in research methods and statistics. In addition, students will complete a research dissertation. 

Modules currently available are: 

• Social Processes in Sport
• Performance Psychology 
• Motor Learning and Control
• Enhancing Physical Activity and Wellbeing 
• Professional Practice in Sport & Exercise Psychology 
• Advanced Applied Research Skills for Sport
• Research Dissertation 

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is delivered in small groups and is interactive. Students are encouraged to debate topics and lead their fellow students through presentations and discussions. In a number of modules there is also a practical element to gain experience of delivering mental skills techniques and developing the skills needed for applied practice. 

Requirements for exit qualifications:

• To gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Sport and Exercise Psychology, students need to complete three modules. Each module is assessed by the equivalent of a 4,000-word assignment.
• To gain a Postgraduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise Psychology, students need to complete six modules. Each module is assessed by a 4,000-word assignment.
• To gain an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology students need to complete six modules, and a dissertation of 12,000 words or a sport science support placement.

Course delivery

The full time course runs from the start of the academic year in September through to the following August. 

Students undertake 3 taught modules in the autumn (September to December) and spring (January to May) semester. 

The dissertation or supervised experience is conducted and completed over the summer semester (June to August). Taught classes are held on Thursdays and Fridays. 

Part-time routes are available and those wishing to complete their studies part-time should contact the programme co-ordinator to discuss the options.

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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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Counselling Psychology

Our Mission

The Counselling Psychology Program, in line with the mission of the research-intensive University of British Columbia, creates, advances and critically examines knowledge in counselling psychology, especially with respect to its validity, applicability, limits, and interface with other disciplines. In developing and applying pertinent and innovative research methodologies, the Counselling Psychology Program relies upon and builds qualitative and quantitative evidence to determine effective counselling interventions in educational, community, health, and occupational settings.

Our Culture & Core Values

The Counselling Psychology program recognizes the critical importance of diversity in our rapidly changing and globalized society, and provides leadership in emphasizing culturally-based considerations in learning, human development, assessment and counselling. In addition to its cultural lens, our program embraces positive, growth-oriented, and developmental perspectives across the lifespan. Attention is also paid to the complex ecological influences on individuals, groups and communities. Our faculty members’ programs of research reflect the core values and foci of the discipline of Counselling Psychology: career development, health and wellness, indigenous healing, gender and cultural diversity, disability, and social justice issues. Our Master’s and Doctoral programs address the needs of individuals, couples and families across the lifespan in terms of research, teaching and counselling practice.

Our Mandate

Our graduate programs adhere to the scientist-practitioner model. Rigorous theoretical and research training is integrated with the development of core counselling competencies. In addition to our core curriculum at the Master’s and Doctoral levels, our students can specialize in community, school, higher education or vocational rehabilitation counselling. Our programs focus on the education of the whole person – promoting not only students’ professional development, but also helping them to realize their intellectual, physical, and emotional potential. Faculty view their roles as facilitators of learning rather than providers of information, and strive for excellence in their research, teaching, and community and professional engagement. The mandate of our programs is the preparation of professional counsellors, counselling psychologists, and scholars in the field of Counselling Psychology.

Program Goals

The mission, philosophy and values of the Program are represented in five specific program goals:
- Goal 1
Graduates will demonstrate critical understanding of counselling theory, research, and practice and in the pursuit of a Master of Arts degree will demonstrate competence in planning, conducting, evaluating, and disseminating counselling psychology research.

- Goal 2
Graduates will have mastery of theoretical and empirical knowledge in Counselling Psychology.

- Goal 3
Graduates will acquire and demonstrate competency required for practice as counsellors in schools, community agencies, and higher education settings.

- Goal 4
Graduates will understand and demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in counselling psychology.

- Goal 5
Graduates will understand and demonstrate their knowledge of the role of diversity in all areas of counselling psychology research and practice.

Quick Facts

- Degree: Master of Arts (research-based), Master of Education (course-based)
- Specialization: Counselling Psychology
- Subject: Education
- Mode of delivery: On campus
- Faculty: Faculty of Education

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