MA Psychology

At Aberdeen, the MA Psychology program offers rich hands-on experience from the very beginning. You’ll explore the human mind through experimental work, lab training, and real-world data analysis. With access to specialist equipment and research-led teaching, you'll build skills that are essential in both academic and applied psychology careers.

Here’s how you’ll apply your knowledge throughout the degree:

• Access to dedicated psychology labs equipped for cognitive testing, eye-tracking, and behavioural experiments
• Training in statistical software like SPSS and R for data analysis and research interpretation
• Practical sessions in perception, memory, language, and social behaviour
• Supervised final-year research project where you’ll design, conduct, and present your own study
• Group projects that simulate real research or clinical psychology settings
• Optional research placements or assistantships during summer or term time with academic staff
• Use of the Sir Duncan Rice Library with extensive psychology and neuroscience collections
• Digital learning support through the university’s Virtual Learning Environment and psychology resource databases

Aberdeen psychology graduates are equipped for a wide range of professions, from mental health and research to education and policy. The MA format allows you to study psychology in depth within a broader arts and social science context, making your profile versatile and well-rounded.

Common roles include:
Assistant Psychologist, Mental Health Support Worker, Social Researcher, HR Specialist

Support you can expect:

• Careers and Employability Service offering tailored guidance, job fairs, and skill-building workshops
• Opportunities to connect with research centres like the Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre and the Centre for Psychology
• High graduate employment and postgraduate study rates within 6 months of graduation
• Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), forming the foundation for professional psychology careers
• Strong links with NHS services, local charities, and education providers for volunteering and experience

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often go on to complete a MSc in areas like Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology, or Neuroscience, and many stay at Aberdeen for their postgraduate study thanks to its specialist research institutes and supportive academic environment.