MSc Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Cardiff University

Program Overview

The MSc Psychology at Cardiff University provides a comprehensive understanding of core psychological principles and research methods. It is ideal for graduates seeking a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited route into professional psychology or further research.

Curriculum Structure:
Students begin with foundational modules such as Biological Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience, and Social and Developmental Psychology, building a broad theoretical base. Later, they advance to applied and analytical topics like Advanced Research Methods and Statistical Analysis in Psychology. The year concludes with an independent Empirical Research Project, allowing students to apply scientific inquiry to real-world psychological issues.

Focus areas: "Cognitive psychology, neuroscience, social behaviour, developmental psychology, research methods"
Learning outcomes: "Students gain analytical, research, and critical thinking skills essential for professional and academic psychology careers."
Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Reputation (employability rankings): Cardiff University is consistently ranked among the UK’s top psychology departments (QS, Guardian).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on Cardiff University's MSc in Psychology develop practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major independent project. They have access to the School of Psychology's extensive facilities, including the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC). This experiential learning is delivered through:

  • Research Project: A substantial independent dissertation conducted within one of the School's research centres.

  • Imaging Facilities: Potential access to CUBRIC for neuroimaging projects using fMRI, MEG, and EEG.

  • Software: Training in SPSS, R, and experiment builders like PsychoPy.

  • Laboratories: Use of dedicated psychology research labs for cognitive, social, and developmental studies.

  • Participant Pool: Hands-on experience recruiting and testing participants from the School's integrated participant pool.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Psychology at Cardiff University develop expert skills in psychological theory, quantitative and qualitative research, and evidence-based practice, preparing them for diverse roles across psychology, education, healthcare, and research. Typical job roles include Assistant Psychologist, Research Associate, Mental Health Practitioner, and Educational Specialist.

  • Cardiff’s Career Support and Employability services offer tailored job-search tools, interview coaching, and professional networking; students benefit from personal tutors and project supervisors.

  • Graduate employment outcomes are highly positive, with around 96% of Cardiff students employed or in further study within 15 months and salaries competitive across the sector.​

  • The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), offering Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership—essential for future psychology training.

  • University partnerships include NHS trusts, educational organisations, and mental health networks, providing practical placement and research opportunities.

  • Graduates progress into clinical, educational, policy, research, and mental health roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently advance to clinical psychology doctorates, specialised training, or PhD research in psychology or allied health fields.​

Program Key Stats

£29,450 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


75 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.8
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
100
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Research Assistant
  • PhD Researcher
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (with further training)
  • HR Officer
  • Recruitment Consultant
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Data Analyst
  • Youth Worker

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