Masters Degrees in Psychology, United Kingdom

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Abnormal and Clinical Psychology at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

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 Master’s degree in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology at Swansea is designed to equip students with an advanced understanding of the theory and practice of clinical psychology in healthcare settings. The primary purpose of the Abnormal and Clinical Psychology course is to allow students to gain knowledge and experience to enhance their suitability for professional clinical training (i.e. a three year DCl in Clinical Psychology programme at a BPS accredited training centre; see http://careers.bps.org.uk/area/clinical).

Entry onto a clinical psychology doctorate training programme is extremely competitive, with candidates usually expected to have acquired training and experience beyond degree level. We have a proven track record of helping our students progress towards clinical psychology training, as well as roles in a range of other clinical mental health-related occupations. Our MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology alumni have also secured NHS clinical based placements, providing valuable experience for those seeking to attain Assistant Clinical Psychologist positions.

The majority of our teaching is carried out by practicing and/or qualified Clinical Psychologists and related professionals, ensuring that students are learning from those with direct experience of professional challenges.

Course modules are assessed using a range of different approaches, including written examinations, essays, presentations and clinical case studies.

Study on the course can be undertaken either full time (1 year) or part time (2 years) basis, with teaching condensed into two weekdays to more easily accommodate part-time students and for relevant experience to be gained alongside the degree. Taught modules are provided in the first two semesters, with the research project typically undertaken over the summer.

Students on the MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology typically include:

* 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 aiming to secure a PhD by Research in a clinically applied area.

The MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology is unique in the range of modules the programme offers:

• Eating Disorders

• Psychosis

• Personality and Sexual Disorder

• Clinical Neuropsychology

• Psychotherapy

• Statistical and Research Methods

• Affective and Somatoform Disorders

• Applied Behaviour Analysis

• Coping with Chronic Disease

• Psychopharmacology for Clinical Psychologists

Students will also complete a substantial research project in their chosen field of study.

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, international student from Greece (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, international student from India (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2009-10)

“The MSc in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology provided me with an excellent theoretical knowledge of a wide variety of psychological approaches” – Ruth (MSc Abnormal and Clinical Psychology, 2008-09)

“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)

The Department of Psychology at Swansea University is a thriving research led department that provides a friendly, supporting learning environment with instruction from world-class researchers. Our consistent ambition is to provide outstanding excellence of teaching and learning for all our students – as demonstrated by a recent Teaching Quality Assessment national audit that judged our teaching as ‘Excellent’. Moreover, the research caliber of our group has also been demonstrated. For example, in The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, we were one of only four psychology departments to achieve a 100% 4* rating (maximum score possible) for the reach and significance of its work.

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Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

This Master's degree in Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience aims to equip students with the skills necessary for research careers across a range of scientific areas.

Key Features of Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience

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

- Top third ranking for UK Psychology Departments (2016 Complete University Guide)

- Joint 12th UK ranking for Psychology (Graduate prospects)

- The MSc Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience is unique and novel in the range of modules and techniques the programme offers

Teaching and Employability:

- Teaching is carried out by highly-respected, research active, professionals conducting research across a range of cognitive neuroscience research areas and publishing in top international journals

- Students benefit from state-of-the-art technology with over twenty general purpose research rooms and numerous specialised testing facilities

- Ability to offer international students mentoring throughout the course

Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience is at the intersection of cognitive science, brain imaging, and clinical neuroscience.

It is considered one of the most significant areas of contemporary science and it is beginning to transform the understanding of both normal and damaged brain function.

The importance of cognitive neuroscience has been recognised by the Welsh Government which created the multi-centre Wales Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, drawing together the psychology departments at Swansea, Cardiff and Bangor Universities.

A core aspect of the provision for MSc Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience will also be collaboration with the College of Medicine at Swansea University.

Modules

Modules on the Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience may include:

Theoretical Issues in Cognitive Neuroscience

Practical Applications in Cognitive Neuroscience

Statistical Methods

Computing skills

Generic Research Skills

Special Research Skills

Neuropsychology

Introduction to Research Programming

Psychology of Ageing

Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience Course Structure

The full-time master's degree for Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience is studied over one year and involves attending University for two full days a week (Monday and Tuesday).

The part-time degree in Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, which is studied over two years, normally involves attending the University for one full day a week.

Taught modules are provided in the first two semesters, with a final high credit-bearing empirical research project with a strong cognitive neuroscience component typically undertaken over the summer.

Sessions may be arranged occasionally on other days of the week (e.g. visiting clinician talks/workshops and employability sessions).

Who should apply?

The Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience course is suitable for:

- anyone looking for a valuable academic foundation for future doctoral training

- anyone looking to demonstrate their employability across a range of disciplines within cognitive neuroscience and related fields, including psychology, computing, neuroscience, medicine and computer science

- UK and international psychology graduates seeking positions as researchers in psychology, cognitive neuroscience or related fields.

- psychology graduates aiming to secure a PhD by research in a psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or a related discipline

- graduates from other disciplines such as Biology, Neuroscience, and Medicine who wish to develop further skills related to psychology and cognitive neuroscience

Career Prospects

Students have successfully used the Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience qualification to gain positions on PhD research programmes. Others have successfully gained employment as Research Associates/ Officers, as well as working in Teaching positions, the Business Sector and in Administration.

On completion of the Research Methods in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience course students should also be able to demonstrate their employability across a range of disciplines within cognitive neuroscience and related fields, including psychology, computing, neuroscience, medicine and computer science.

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.

In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Five BPS Commendations

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

Work Experience Opportunities

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

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

What you will study

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

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

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

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

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

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

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

Assessment methods

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

Facilities

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

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

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

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

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This course will provide you with an advanced understanding of the theoretical and applied issues in forensic psychology. Our scientist-practitioner approach equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in forensic psychology practice.

The MSc in Forensic Psychology offers comprehensive professional training in forensic psychology. You will gain an in-depth experience of offending and victim pathways, as well as the investigative process. Through the use of a structured framework, you will also study theory and conduct research relating to forensic psychology practice. The course has two different routes:

Forensic Psychology, MSc (Accredited)
This route is fully accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), thereby accounting for Stage 1 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology. Students enrolling on this route must have a first degree in psychology providing Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) with the BPS. We will attempt to provide you with a placement within local forensic units (ie HM Prison Service, NHS, Police, or the Forensic Interview Laboratory within the School of Psychology), however, this is not always guaranteed for all students.

Forensic Psychology, MSc (Non-accredited)
This route is not accredited by the BPS and therefore does not fulfil Stage 1 of the BPS qualification in Forensic Psychology. If a student on this non-accredited route wanted to progress onto Stage 2 of the Qualification in Forensic Psychology in the future, they would need to go back and complete the necessary conversion programme to give them the requisite GBC with the BPS.

This route is aimed primarily at those students who do not possess a first degree in psychology providing GBC with the BPS, but whose degree covers research methods and statistics relevant to psychology (eg a joint or combined honours degree which includes psychology, or an international psychology degree that does not confer GBC with the BPS). Other qualifications/experience may be acceptable and will be considered by the Programme Director (eg mental health specialists, police officers, prison officers).

No placements will be provided on this route (with the exception of the Forensic Interview Laboratory within the School of Psychology - space permitting). You are, however, free to gain access to your own placement.

Northumbria Police are proud to support this course and to be working in collaboration with the School of Psychology at Newcastle University.

You will develop your understanding of forensic psychology in a multi-disciplinary and professional context. We promote collaborative teaching and research through our strong links with UK forensic psychology practitioners, including Her Majesty's Prison Service, the National Health Service (NHS) and Police.

You will gain demonstrable, advanced knowledge and critical understanding in:
-Theories and professional issues of forensic psychology
-The breadth and depth of forensic psychology
-The role of psychology within the legal system (civil and criminal)
-The National Offender Management system
-Legislation under which forensic psychologists work
-Investigative psychology and forensic interviewing
-Investigative process from pre-trial/conviction to through/after-care and restorative justice
-Legal, ethical and contextual issues in the evaluation of research and practice
-Debating and using evidence from appropriate literature
-Legal processes

You will also gain professional skills in:
-Writing parole board and analytical reports
-Developing forensic case formulations
-Independent learning
-Project planning
-Problem solving
-Time management
-Teamwork
-Reflection

Your specialist skills and knowledge will be developed through a combination of:
-Written reports
-Reflective journals
-Interview guides
-Oral presentations

Facilities

The School of Psychology provides high quality facilities to all our students, researchers and staff. We are located in the Ridley Building where you will have access to a postgraduate resources room with networked computers and printer.

Accreditation

This course has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The accreditation shows that the course meets the standards set by the BPS.

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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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This BPS-accredited conversion course is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a career in psychology but need to acquire the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS). You do not need to have studied psychology to be eligible for this programme. However, you should note that it is an intensive course and requires hard work and independent study outside the contact hours – full-time study IS full-time. We welcome applications from graduates with upper second class degrees who have either completed a degree in another subject or who have insufficient psychology in their degree to be eligible for GBC.

Course content

You will take modules at Masters level in core areas of psychology, as specified by the BPS. You will also take one option module in psychology from a selection available within the department. We offer a work experience in psychology module as an option for those who would like to gain valuable experience in the work place. The content of the curriculum of the MSc covers the core areas of psychology stipulated by the BPS for GBC. This consists of Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, History and Philosophy of Psychology, Individual Differences, Empirical Project, Psychobiology, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, and Social Psychology. In all of the modules there is a strong emphasis on critical evaluation of theory and practice.

Modules

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

Core modules
-DEVELOPMENTAL AND DIFFERENTIAL PSYCHOLOGY
-FUNDAMENTALS OF PSYCHOLOGY
-PROJECT FOR PSYCHOLOGY MSC
-PSYCHOBIOLOGY AND COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY
-QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
-QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
-SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY AND CONCEPTUAL ISSUES IN PSYCHOLOGY

Option module
You will choose an option from Masters level courses within the Department of Psychology, subject to availability and timetable constraints. A practice-based option module is Work Experience in a Psychological Setting for MSc students. Other options may change each year, but currently include: Individual Differences: Health, Stress and Disease; Cognitive Rehabilitation: Applications and Interventions; and Psychology Literature Project (critically evaluating the literature on a chosen topic).

Associated careers

Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) is the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist. It is the prerequisite for progression to Postgraduate professional training in psychology and subsequent registration as a Chartered Psychologist working in any of the fields of professional psychology – including clinical, counselling, educational, occupational, and health psychology. It is a requirement for Masters and Doctorate courses in Psychology that lead to professional qualifications such as Doctorates in counselling, Clinical and Educational Psychology, and Masters courses in Organisational/Occupational Psychology.

Professional recognition

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

Read less

This BPS-accredited conversion course is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a career in psychology but need to acquire the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS). You do not need to have studied psychology to be eligible for this programme. However, you should note that it is an intensive course and requires hard work and independent study outside the contact hours – full-time study IS full-time. We welcome applications from graduates with upper second class degrees who have either completed a degree in another subject or who have insufficient psychology in their degree to be eligible for GBC.

Course content

You will take modules at Masters level in core areas of psychology, as specified by the BPS. You will also take one option module in psychology from a selection available within the department. We offer a work experience in psychology module as an option for those who would like to gain valuable experience in the work place. The content of the curriculum of the MSc covers the core areas of psychology stipulated by the BPS for GBC. This consists of Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, History and Philosophy of Psychology, Individual Differences, Empirical Project, Psychobiology, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, and Social Psychology. In all of the modules there is a strong emphasis on critical evaluation of theory and practice.

Modules

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

Core modules
-DEVELOPMENTAL AND DIFFERENTIAL PSYCHOLOGY
-FUNDAMENTALS OF PSYCHOLOGY
-PROJECT FOR PSYCHOLOGY MSC
-PSYCHOBIOLOGY AND COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY
-QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
-QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS
-SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY AND CONCEPTUAL ISSUES IN PSYCHOLOGY

Option module
You will choose an option from Masters level courses within the Department of Psychology, subject to availability and timetable constraints. A practice-based option module is Work Experience in a Psychological Setting for MSc students. Other options may change each year, but currently include: Individual Differences: Health, Stress and Disease; Cognitive Rehabilitation: Applications and Interventions; and Psychology Literature Project (critically evaluating the literature on a chosen topic).

Associated careers

Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) is the first step towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist. It is the prerequisite for progression to Postgraduate professional training in psychology and subsequent registration as a Chartered Psychologist working in any of the fields of professional psychology – including clinical, counselling, educational, occupational, and health psychology. It is a requirement for Masters and Doctorate courses in Psychology that lead to professional qualifications such as Doctorates in counselling, Clinical and Educational Psychology, and Masters courses in Organisational/Occupational Psychology.

Professional recognition

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

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Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Research Methods in Psychology at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

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

- Top third ranking for UK Psychology Departments (2016 Complete University Guide)

- Joint 12th UK ranking for Psychology (Graduate prospects)

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, students on the Research Methods in Psychology course 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.

Modules

Modules on the Research Methods in Psychology MSc typically include:

Generic Research Skills

Computing Skills

Empirical Projects

Philosophy of Psychology

Special Research Skills

Statistical Methods

Qualitative Methods

Dissertation (MSc Research Methods)

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.

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.

In addition, students have access to a wide range of excellent facilities and equipment for realistic workplace experiences.

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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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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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Why Surrey?

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

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

Programme overview

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

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

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

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

Programme structure

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

Example module listing

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

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

Educational aims of the programme

The aims of the programme are:

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

Programme learning outcomes

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

Knowledge and understanding

Students will gain knowledge and understanding of the following:

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

Intellectual / cognitive skills

Students will be able to:

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

Professional practical skills

Students will have the skills to:

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

Key / transferable skills

Students will be able to:

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

Global opportunities

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

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

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Are you looking to develop a career in psychology or further your understanding of psychology; the scientific study of people, the mind and behavior?

This MSc conversion course in Applied Psychology, delivered via distance learning, is designed to allow students who do not hold a psychology undergraduate degree to develop the wide range of subject-specific and generic skills required to pursue a career as a professional psychologist in practice or academia.

Visit the website: http://www.rgu.ac.uk/social-work-and-social-sciences/study-options/distance-and-flexible-learning/applied-psychology-course

Course detail

Masters degrees prepare you for entering a professional area, whether this is as a chartered psychologist, academic research (e.g. PhD study) or elsewhere. The MSc will train you to apply your thinking to examine the theories and practices that make up the professional knowledge in Psychology.

You will build on these practices to become, not only an independent researcher. Rather than just working within the key issues or debates in Psychology, you will be expected to examine the edges and boundaries of Psychology and understand how knowledge is constructed.

Modules

You will study core modules in:

• Biological Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Individual Differences
• Social Psychology
• Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology
• Research Methods

The flexible nature of the course also allows you to study an elective module in an applied area of your choice. Whilst the final research project, written up as a dissertation, enables you to explore psychological questions in a real-world context that are relevant to your interests, experiences and future career ambitions. All classes and activities will be done online and in your own time with the exception of a two hour weekly online workshop. The precise timing of the workshop will be negotiated with the student co-hort upon course commencement.

The modules will focus on Applied Psychology; using knowledge of psychology to understand real-world problems and create changes in areas such as education, the workplace, mental health and psychological well-being, counselling, physical health and illness, behaviour change, forensic and legal settings, sport and exercise, and social problems such as prejudice and discrimination.

Format

You will experience a supportive and structured learning experience, with access to a comprehensive online library of psychology resources delivered via the University's virtual learning environment CampusMoodle and plenty of opportunity to interact with tutors and other students. All classes and activities will be done online and in your own time with the exception of fortnightly online workshops.

Learning will involve online lectures, interactive discussion forums and virtual classroom sessions.

You will also receive one-to-one support from a specialist supervisor when you begin your empirical research project.

Assessment

Assessment methods include written coursework in the form of essays and reports, empirical research projects and a range of online activities.

Placements and accreditation

This course is accredited by The British Psychological Society.

Careers

Successful completion of the MSc will enable students to pursue further training as a HCPC-registered and/or Chartered Psychologist in a range of areas such as:

• Clinical Psychology
• Counselling Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Occupational Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Teaching and Research in Psychology

On graduation students will be equipped with a broad range of soft skills including the ability to: solve problems and reason scientifically; make critical judgements and evaluations; demonstrate ethical awareness and sensitivity to contextual and interpersonal factors; communicate and collaborate successfully. Given the distance learning nature of the course, students will also be adaptive and responsible in order to be effective independent learners. Such soft skills are highly valued by employers for jobs across a wide range of occupations that involve work with people, and will prove invaluable for those applying for further training as a HPC-registered and/or Chartered Psychologist.

How to apply

To find out how to apply, use the following link: http://www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline

Funding

For information on funding, including loans, scholarships and Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) please click the following link: http://www.rgu.ac.uk/future-students/finance-and-scholarships/financial-support/uk-students/postgraduate-students/postgraduate-students/

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

Who is it for?

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

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

Objectives

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

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

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

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

Academic facilities

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

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

Teaching and learning

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

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

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

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

Modules

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

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

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

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

Career prospects

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

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

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

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

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Training as an Occupational Psychologist in the Institute of Management Studies will equip you with the scientific knowledge and practical skills to challenge the status quo and offer innovative solutions to workplace problems- http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/msc-occupational-psychology/

Occupational Psychology, both as a professional and academic field, seeks to address questions of critical importance in business and enterprise.

-How can we select the best employees?
-How can we enhance health and performance?
-What does effective leadership look like?
-What impact does coaching really have?

The MSc in Occupational Psychology, run by the Institute of Management Studies, will equip you with the knowledge and skills to begin considering these questions. The programme has been designed in line with British Psychological Society (BPS) Division of Occupational Psychology (DOP) requirements and has been accredited since 1995. We recently updated our programme content in line with the 2014 changes to the DOP Occupational Psychology curriculum and, as of September 2014, we are teaching in line with the new curriculum.

The MSc in Occupational Psychology aims to equip you with a thorough grounding in the application of psychological theory to work settings, to provide you with the skills necessary to conduct cutting-edge research in applied research projects to a high level of competence, and to impart core practitioner techniques and awareness.

Excellent employment rates

The programme’s success is increasingly reflected in the excellent employment rates of our former MSc students in both public and private sectors. Some students also go on to carry out PhD level study with us to become academic Occupational Psychologists.

Develop a theoretical and empirical knowledge base

In the IMS we work to the academic-practitioner model. That is, our Occupational Psychology programme is specifically designed to equip you with a theoretical and empirical knowledge base that you can bring to your consultancy and practice. To that end, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in both cutting edge research, as well as practical skills sessions. For your research dissertation you’ll have access to academics with expertise in areas such as occupational health and wellbeing, talent management and entrepreneurship.

Distinguished Speakers Series

In addition, in the IMS we have an invited speakers’ programme called the Distinguished Speakers Series. This series provides specialised talks by either academic or practising experts in various fields of business, enterprise and occupational psychology.

You can find out more about the programme on our Facebook page.

Contact the department

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Jo Lloyd.

Modules & Structure

Structure

The MSc programme runs for one year, starting in September. Most lectures and seminars are in the first two terms of the academic year, however the programme is structured in such a way that you are expected to pursue your studies beyond formal term times. Apart from the individual module-units listed in the syllabus, you will be required to attend other seminars and workshop series.

As far as is practicable, the majority of lectures and seminars will be timetabled for Mondays and Tuesdays.

Occupational Test User Training

(Formerly known as Level A and B training)

During your MSc you will be provided with the opportunity to partake in training that will allow you to qualify for the BPS certificates in “Test User: Occupational, Ability” and “Test User: Occupational, Personality.” This qualification recognizes you as an expert in the administration, scoring and interpretation of ability tests and personality questionnaires. Your training will be delivered by Criterion Partnership, a world-recognised authority on objective assessment.

Research Project (60 credits)

The research dissertation requires you to execute and document an original research investigation. The focus can be on any area related to occupational psychology, and can take place in either a laboratory or field setting, using a specific population (eg salespersons) or the general public. It is also possible to conduct a piece of archival research (eg meta-analysis), if your supervisor agrees that this is appropriate.

You normally begin the research dissertation in the second term (January), together with necessary literature reviews and research design, and the submission deadline is late August.

Assessment

Your performance will be assessed by formal examinations, essays, presentations, business reports and a research dissertation of not more than 10,000 words.

Skills

You'll develop technical skills related to occupational psychology including:

stress and safety risk assessment procedures
work re-design procedures
designing assessment strategies
training needs analysis
You’ll also develop the analytical skills that you will need as a professional psychologist.

Careers

Through the Professional Skills Workshops you will be able to interact closely with experts from the world's leading organisations and enhance your professional development.

The programme’s success is increasingly reflected in the excellent employment rates of our former MSc students in both public and private sectors. Some students also go on to carry out PhD level study with us to become academic Occupational Psychologists.

You may go on to work as an independent consultant, as an ‘in-house’ consultant for a private or public sector organisation, in a consultancy, or in academia.

Important information about career routes in occupational psychology

For those applicants who have a BSc or a BA in Psychology from a university that is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) (This is also known as having Graduate Basis for Chartership; GBC), the Goldsmiths’ MSc in Occupational Psychology (if successfully completed) will allow you to progress to BPS Stage two training, and eventually attain professional chartership in occupational psychology (if Stage two BPS requirements are met).

For those applicants who have a BSc or a BA in Psychology from a university that is not accredited by the BPS, you will not be eligible for the BPS Stage two training at present, but will nevertheless be welcome to join the Goldsmiths’ MSc in Occupational Psychology. Importantly, it may be possible for you to gain BPS recognition for your non-accredited BA or BSc in Psychology through applying directly to the BPS through this link.

For those applicants who are unable to gain BPS recognition for their BSc or BA in Psychology, and those applicants who have a BSc or a BA in a discipline outside of psychology, you will not be eligible for the BPS Stage two training at present, but will nevertheless be welcome to join the Goldsmiths’ MSc in Occupational Psychology. Applicants in this situation may consider completing a BPS accredited psychology postgraduate conversion course prior to undertaking the MSc in Occupational Psychology. This will permit eventual progression to the BPS Stage two training, if the MSc in Occupational Psychology is successfully attained.

Funding

Please visit http://www.gold.ac.uk/pg/fees-funding/ for details.

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