Research Methods in Psychology MSc

This master's degree in Research Methods in Psychology aims to provide an opportunity to research and learn about a wide range of topics in psychology; from basic learning and cognition, to neuropsychology, and to applied topics in clinical and educational psychology.

Key Features of Research Methods in 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:

• High-level training in advanced research methods and skills
• Exciting opportunities to conduct basic and applied research projects in a wide range of areas.
• Unique mix of small-group teaching in seminars, workshops, and practical sessions, as well as a diverse range of assessment methods and access to staff and other one-to-one teaching support from demonstrators for technical subjects. 
• International student mentor to all international/overseas fee-paying Psychology students
• Opportunity to gain funding for Ph.D. places, and to gain access to professional training courses in Clinical Psychology and Educational Psychology 

This MSc in Research Methods in Psychology provides students with high-level training in advanced research methods and skills, and offers exciting opportunities to conduct basic and applied research projects in a wide range of areas. 

Research Methods in Psychology students learn to use a range of research tools, such as databases, statistical software, and computer programmes. 

By the end of this training, Research Methods in Psychology students will have acquired a wide range of practical research skills to apply in any context where human behaviour is important. They will have gained practical knowledge of the nature and limitations of the scientific method and the main alternatives, and knowledge of the general historical, theoretical, and philosophical issues underlying psychological and behavioural science.

Research Methods in Psychology Course Structure

The full-time Research Methods in Psychology course, which will last one year, will normally involve attending the University for two full days a week (Monday and Tuesday). The part-time course, which lasts two years, will normally involve attending the University one full day a week.

Assessment 

Teaching is in seminars, workshops, lectures and practical classes. Assessment is mainly by written coursework and reports of empirical projects carried out individually and in groups. 

Modules

Modules on the Research Methods in Psychology course typically include:

• Computing Skills
• Philosophy of Psychology
• Statistical Methods
• Qualitative Methods
• Empirical Projects
• Generic Research Skills – Research Methods in Psychology
• Applied Behaviour Analysis
• Introduction to Forensic Psychology
• Critical Issues in Cognitive Neuroscience
• Structure and Function of the Brain
• Employability & Placement
• Introduction to Python for Psychology

Who should apply?

The Research Methods in Psychology course is suitable for:

• Anybody with an interest in developing a career in research, either in psychology, or social and health sciences, or those wishing to apply research skills in the private sector.
• Students who wish to pursue further professional training in professional and applied areas of psychology have found the research training provided very helpful in developing this aspect of their skills portfolio.

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.

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. 

Facilities

First class facilities for Psychology

The Department of Psychology has state-of-the-art research facilities, including:

• A high density EEG suite
• A social observation laboratory with multi-camera, multi-monitor equipment
• A sleep lab with five sound proof cubicles in an isolated chamber
• Eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning laboratories
• A lifespan and baby room
• Over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

In addition, with strong links with the Institute of Life Science Imaging Centre, our researchers and students have access to state-of-the-art fMRI facilities.

We also have excellent links with the Neurosciences Directorate at Morriston Hospital, which provides direct access to individuals who have suffered brain injury and the corresponding facilities. 

Visit the Research Methods in Psychology MSc page on the Swansea University website for more details!