Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (Hons) -  

 PSYCHOLOGY

Do the inner workings of the human mind intrigue you? Do you want to see what the most complicated machine in the universe is capable of? Through psychology, you’ll understand the depths of the human psyche and dive into the social, developmental, cognitive, individual differences and biological dimensions of behaviour.

Why study this subject?

BNUs MSci (Hons) Psychology course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and is a recognised qualification by employers throughout the country.

Whether you’re simply fascinated by the human mind and why we behave in the way that they do, or you have your sights set on becoming a Clinical Psychologist, studying Psychology is a great choice.

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

BNUs teaching department is home to an incredible community of Psychology and Social Science students who can collaborate with you on projects, providing a rich supply of volunteers when you run your own experiments.

They pride themselves on teaching practical skills wherever and whenever they can, meaning you'll always leave the university feeling confident and prepared for your future. This hands-on approach will give you a sense of what it’s really like to work in the world of psychology, in whatever career you choose.

BNUs MSci (Hons) Psychology programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and is a recognised qualification by employers throughout the country. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) and from there you can even take steps towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist.

What facilities can you use?

You’ll take part in laboratory and computing workshops where you’ll have the practical use of software used by social scientists in the presentation of research data.

You’ll also have the opportunity to use our state-of-the-art observation laboratory to engage in the measurement of psycho-physiological responses using Biopac©. You’ll be able to measure the activity of the cardiovascular system, brain, autonomic nervous system and more. You’ll also have access to Tobii eye tracking equipment and HTC Vive, a virtual reality software, meaning you can push the boundaries and get creative with your research ideas.

BNU library is packed with all the information you need for your assessments – you’ll have access to hundreds of specialist books, articles and online journals. Not to mention there’s plenty of room to knuckle down for some quiet study time.

What will you study?

You’ll study the applications of psychology in a wide range of areas, including specific social problems in relation to crime, the workplace and mental health. Exploring theories posed by Freud and Jung through to developing your own original research, you’ll learn for yourself what really makes the mind tick.

Across your four years at BNU, you’ll study fascinating subject areas like developmental psychology, cognitive processes, biological psychology, positive psychology, health, business and organisational psychology, critical social psychology and conceptual and historical issues within psychology.

You’ll also get to grips with how to run your own experiments through our research skills and methods modules.

In your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to deep dive into a specialist area you’re really passionate about by completing an empirical dissertation. With the support and guidance of your personal tutor along with the facilities available to you here at BNU, the possibilities for this project are endless.

How will I be taught and assessed?

Through the course assessments you’ll gain key skills such as how to work in a team, give engaging presentations, write concise reports and analyse data effectively. In the final year of your studies, you’ll also choose from a range of applied and theoretical modules to really narrow your focus to the areas you feel especially passionate about.

You’ll be introduced to the core areas of psychology within the British Psychological Society Curriculum before moving on to explore more complex issues and theories throughout your time on the course.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, classroom-based activities and workshops, independent learning methods and practical sessions. You’ll always be encouraged to think critically about the ideas you engage with on this course and you’ll be given the opportunity to explore and discuss those ideas with your tutors and fellow students.

Whilst studying with us, you’ll also be given the opportunity to hear from external speakers who can provide you with a deeper understanding of the subject from the perspective of their ‘real-life’ experience.

You’ll be assessed through a number of methods including poster presentations, essays and assignments, examinations, oral presentations, laboratory/research reports and an empirical dissertation in your final year.

What are your career prospects?

Throughout your time with Buckinghamshire they'll support you on the route to your chosen career. They will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. They also help you find employment after graduation. 

At Buckinghamshire New University, they recognise that many of their Psychology students will choose from a wide range of graduate career options, not all of which will have the title ‘Psychologist’. Their programme is therefore designed to inspire and facilitate the development of transferable skills that will make you an attractive candidate for any employer.

There are many other options to explore with your degree; it’s the first step to starting postgraduate study in a more focused area like clinical, educational, forensic, counselling, health, cognitive neuropsychology and sports psychology (to name a few). Or perhaps you’d prefer to dive right into the world of work and explore a career in health, education, local government or the infinite possibilities available to you in the private sector. With such a strong academic grounding as well as the transferrable skills you’ll develop along the way, you’ll be sure to succeed wherever you go.