Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Research Methods in Psychology
Prepare for a career in psychological research or practice with advanced training in the theory and methods behind psychological science. A hands‑on approach with practical activities gives you direct experience linking theory, evidence and practice.Immersive, hands‑on learning
Practical activities are built into every stage of the programme, helping you apply new knowledge immediately and develop career‑ready skills.
Comprehensive research training
Gain advanced expertise across the full research cycle, from designing studies and analysing data to communicating findings and preparing funding applications.
World‑class facilities and expert teaching
Work with leading researchers and access specialist labs – including neuroimaging, VR, observation suites and the Plymouth Babylab – to pursue an original research topic of your choice.
Details
Year 1
With the supervision and guidance of world-class researchers and academics, you will acquire an advanced understanding of psychology that cuts across theory, methods and practice. Training is provided on the core concepts and skills used in research and practice. This includes advanced instruction in data fluency, experiment design and the communication of research, and the role of qualitative and interpretative techniques in the application of psychology to everyday problems. A wide range of specialist techniques are offered as options, allowing you to build a suite of specific techniques required for your future career in research, neuroscience or behaviour change techniques.
Core modules
PSYC722
Advanced Psychology Research Project
60 credits
This module requires students to undertake an original project in an area associated with their specialist area of interest. It comprises an independent piece of research work conducted by the student and written up as a research report.
90% Coursework
10% Practicals
PSYC750
Personal and Professional Development
0 credits
This module will enhance students awareness of the transferable skills they possess, focus thinking about future employment, spur reflection on recent learning, and promote the effective use of feedback to enhance academic performance.
PSYC760
Advanced Research Design and Data Fluency for Psychology
20 credits
This module explores approaches to formulating psychological research questions, the design of studies to effectively investigate such questions, and how to work fluently with common types of psychological data.
100% Coursework
PSYC761
Advanced Research Practice and Data Analysis for Psychology
20 credits
This module teaches students to communicate their research in a conference-style presentation setting, to work collaboratively and make an impact in their academic and professional life, and to analyse psychological data using best practices for reproducibility and transparency in psychological science.
70% Coursework
30% Practicals
PSYC762
Models of Intervention in Psychology
20 credits
What makes a psychologically based intervention effective? This module covers a range of contemporary interventions for clinical psychological and behavioural problems, focusing on a critical analysis of the psychological mechanisms underlying interventions and explores how laboratory research can be translated into new interventions.
100% Coursework
PSYC763
Advanced Skills and Techniques for Psychological Research Part 1
20 credits
The module introduces students to a range of approaches to data collection including interviewing, surveys, computer programming, systematic reviewing and EEG. It also provides students with a grounding in core research skills such as writing, literature reviewing and conducting service evaluation.
100% Coursework
PSYC764
Advanced Skills and Techniques for Psychological Research Part 2
20 credits
The module introduces students to a range of approaches to data analytic and data handling methodologies including qualitative approaches such as thematic analysis and content analysis and methods of analysing and data handling approaches to quantitative data such as JAMOVI/JASP and excel. The module will also cover specific elements of analysis such as clinical significance, psychometrics and research dissemination through academic posters.
100% Coursework
PSYC765
Neuropsychology and Neuroscience: From lab to community
20 credits
To show how different cognitive science and neuroscience techniques can be used to advance understanding cognition and how this relates to neurological conditions. Students are introduced to a range of neuropsychological conditions including Acquired Brain Injuries, Parkinson’s and dementia and approaches to intervention from lab through to hospital and community settings.
100% Coursework
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
Other postgraduate psychology programmes:
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
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:
Careers, industry and research
Shaping your path as a research‑driven psychology professional
The programme provides advanced training and experience that puts graduates at a competitive advantage in academic or professional psychological practice. Insight and instruction of core psychological research competencies provide a foundation for the exploration of the knowledge and skills specific to particular career-pathways.
It provides experiential-learning of advanced topics relevant to techniques in behaviour change and human neuroscience, helping to equip you as the psychologist that you want to become, with the skills and experience requisite for doctoral training (e.g. PhD), or immediate professional or commercial practice.
Why choose Plymouth?
Plymouth is one of the top Psychology departments in the UK. Programmes run in conjunction with the School’s existing taught programmes, including its BPS-accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology programme.
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6Specialist facilities
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6Employment opportunities
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6Psychology research
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6Highly qualified educators
Hear from our students and alumni
Having a fascination with the experience of being human and the reasoning behind why people do the things they do, studying psychology seemed like a clear option for Kezz Keogh.
“How can a song elicit similar emotions in people regardless of the language spoken? Why do we dream? What drives the decisions that we make?”
Over time, Kezz’s curiosity in psychology became enmeshed with her lifelong love of nature. This evolved into a deep interest in the human relationship with the natural environment, and she chose to explore this during her undergraduate degree, taking on a placement at Dartmoor Zoo, and then later on her masters.
Kezz, BSc (Hons) Psychology and MSc Research Methods in Psychology graduate
“The MSc Research Methods in Psychology is a rigorous course that sharpens analytical thinking, data interpretation, and visualisation skills alongside other core research skills.
I particularly valued the practical elements of the programme, including opportunities to develop presentation and interview skills, which helped translate knowledge into clear communication.
The lectures are well structured, and the teaching team has been responsive and supportive when questions arise. Overall, the course provides strong preparation for pursuing a research pathway or career of your choice.”
Chamdhini Pannipitiya, current MSc Research Methods in Psychology student
Research in the School of Psychology
Our staff are actively engaged in research, staying at the forefront of scientific knowledge by constantly developing new theories and making innovative discoveries. This ensures that, alongside studying classic theories and findings from past research, you'll gain insights into the current state of psychology from experts in the field.
Experiential learning
We've redesigned the way we teach psychology. We always seek feedback from students in order to continually improve our courses. As a result, we have created a curriculum that focuses on active learning. Our range of practical activities and specialist facilities are embedded throughout our courses, enabling you to put your new knowledge into practice from the outset and shaping you into the best psychologist and professional you can be.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment are available for you to book and use, supporting your learning across the breadth of psychology, enhancing your potential, and helping you develop essential skills.
EEG lab
NeMo lab
Softlab
Meet your lecturers
Dr Christopher Berry
Associate Professor of Psychology
Programme Lead
Professor Jackie Andrade
Professor in Psychology
Dr Gray Atherton
Lecturer in Psychology
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
Our supportive teaching and welcoming student community means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
MSc Advanced Psychology
MSc Advanced Psychology
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based – offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£10,600 per year
£10,600 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£590 per 10 credits
£590 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
£18,700 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Students must have a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree, preferably in Psychology but also in cognate subjects (e.g.: computational neuroscience), although we would also consider applicants who can demonstrate their ability to thrive on this programme due to professional experience.
This programme provides a privileged route for students seeking to advance their knowledge of psychology. While well suited to students with a current background in the field we would also welcome applications from students from other backgrounds, such as education, humanities, social sciences, biology and other life sciences, pure science, and engineering.
Please note that this programme does not confer graduate basis for recognition by the British Psychological Society, applicants seeking this recognition should apply to our MSc Psychology programme.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- 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.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7626
7626
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - 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
- 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.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7626
7626
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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