Have you considered?
MSc Research Methods in Psychology (Full-time) MSc Research Methods in Psychology (Part-time) MSc Clinical Psychology MSc Human Neuroscience (Full-time, part-time available)
Key features
- Enter the MSc with an honours degree in any subject. You become eligible for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) which normally requires a three-year honours degree in psychology.
- Obtain a background in the major theoretical approaches in all of the principal areas of psychology – biological, cognitive, social, developmental and individual differences.
- Study in a Psychology department that is in the top 20 across all UK universities, with 83% of our research output rated 'world leading' or of 'international quality' by the 2014 Research Excellence Framework.
- The MSc is ideal for those wishing to make a career change into psychology or who have overseas qualifications and wish to convert their psychology degree into one approved by the BPS.
Course details
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Programme overview
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Drawing on Plymouth's existing British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited programmes, you’ll gain access to the curriculum essential for obtaining GBC, a critical step in becoming a chartered psychologist. The programme includes a number of opportunities for advanced study. You’ll learn through an exciting blend of lectures and regular interaction with staff and fellow students, as well as through independent reading and research. You’re challenged to investigate classic and contemporary issues in the field of psychology at an intensive and analytical level. You’ll develop and carry out an independent research project under the supervision of a member of academic staff.The MSc dissertation is completed at the end of the academic year (July) and the degree conferred the following November.Part-time study
An option to study part-time over two years is available. Please contact the course coordinator for details.Core modules
PSYC703
Cognition and Biological PsychologyThis module covers four core areas of psychology: Perception & Attention; Learning & Memory; Cognition & Language; Neuroscience & Comparative Psychology. The biological basis of cognition will be integrative within each of the four core areas. Of the 12 hours of lectures in each area, the first will be devoted to CHIP issues and the on integration within/between topics.
PSYC704
Individual Differences, Social and Developmental PsychologyThis module covers three core areas of psychology: Individual differences, Social and Developmental: each core area will be covered in 16 hours of lectures. The first hour will cover CHIP issues and the last hour will focus on integration within/between topics.
PSYC705
Health and WellbeingThe module explores the multiple factors that determine health and wellbeing related behaviours, introducing professional areas of health, clinical and forensic psychology.
PSYC706
Current Topics in PsychologyThis course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (two topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).
PSYC707
MSc Research ProjectStudents, supported by academic supervisors and specialist workshops, are required to conduct a complete piece of research, from establishing a research area, formulating a research question, conducting a literature search, designing and conducting a study that meets appropriate ethical standards, analysing the data and communicating the research verbally and in writing.
PSYC708
Psychology Study Skills and CareersPSYC719
Research Skills in Practice 1In this module students develop an understanding of the processes involved in undertaking and communicating research of increasing complexity. Students work in supervised groups to develop research questions on the association of factors and test them using empirical methods. Results are communicated via both oral presentation and written report. Methods workshops are also provided.
PSYC720
Research Skills in Practice 2In this module students develop an understanding of the processes involved in undertaking and communicating research of increasing complexity. Students work in supervised groups to develop research questions on group differences and test them using empirical methods. Results are communicated via both oral presentation and written report means. Methods workshops are also provided.
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Entry requirements
- Bachelor (honours) degree at 2:1 or above in a relevant subject area. However, we would also consider applicants with a 2:2 level who can demonstrate previous studies or professional experience related to psychology, research methods or statistics.
- GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics and English. Consideration may be given to Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics. Please note we do not accept Functional Skills Level 2 in English, or Key Skills in Maths or English, or Adult Literacy/Numeracy.
- To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our
UCAS tariff and entry requirements glossary. - If you have overseas qualifications you can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through ECCTIS, who provide an advisory service.
- If English is not your first language and you do not have GCSE English grade C/4 or above you will have to achieve an IELTS (or equivalent qualification) at the grade of at least 6.5 overall.
International students – English language requirements - For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualification and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our
International Office .
Extended entry requirements
- In addition to the above, evidence of academic study within the last five years is required.
- Meeting the academic minimum is the first stage of an application being considered. Applicants must also submit a strong personal statement in order to be considered further. Applicants should demonstrate evidence of their interest in Psychology.
- We will require an academic reference as part of the application process.
Fees, costs and funding
Student | 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 |
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Home | £9,900 | £10,300 |
International | £17,600 | £18,150 |
Part time (Home) | £550 | £570 |
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
- 10% discount on tuition fees for home students
- £2,000 discount on tuition fees for international students
Postgraduate scholarships for international students
To reward outstanding achievement, the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.
How to apply
When to apply
Before you apply
- evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Disability Inclusion Services
International students
Submitting an application
What happens after I apply?
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Admissions policy
Progression routes
International progression routes
Research in the School of Psychology
Learn more about the research in the School of Psychology