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
Programme overview
- 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
Cognition and Biological Psychology (PSYC703)
This 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.
Individual Differences, Social and Developmental Psychology (PSYC704)
This 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.
Health and Wellbeing (PSYC705)
The module explores the multiple factors that determine health and wellbeing related behaviours, introducing professional areas of health, clinical and forensic psychology.
Current Topics in Psychology (PSYC706)
This 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).
MSc Research Project (PSYC707)
Students, 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.
Psychology Study Skills and Careers (PSYC708)
Research Skills in Practice 1 (PSYC719)
In 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.
Research Skills in Practice 2 (PSYC720)
In 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.
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.
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