MSc Addictions

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Kings College London

Program Overview

The MSc Addictions at King’s College London provides an in-depth understanding of the psychological, social, and biological factors influencing addictive behaviours. It suits students aiming for careers in clinical psychology, counselling, or research related to substance use and behavioural addictions.

Curriculum Structure:
Students explore modules such as Pharmacology of Addiction, Treatment of Addictive Behaviours, and Research Methods in Addictions. The course integrates theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling students to design, implement, and evaluate addiction interventions. The program concludes with a Research Dissertation focused on addiction science or clinical approaches.

Focus Areas: "Substance use, behavioural addiction, treatment interventions, public health, addiction neuroscience"

Learning Outcomes: "Students gain expertise in addiction mechanisms, clinical assessment, and evidence-based intervention design, preparing them for research and practice in addiction services."

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Developed by the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), adhering to leading mental health and addiction research standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): King’s College London ranks among the world’s top 25 universities (QS) and is internationally recognised for excellence in psychiatry, psychology, and addiction research.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme focuses on applying health psychology theories and research methods to real-world clinical and public health challenges. Students develop practical skills through hands-on research projects and access to King's world-class health science facilities. This applied approach is delivered through:

  • Health Psychology Labs: Access to specialised research facilities within the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), including psychophysiology equipment and behavioural observation suites.

  • Research Methods Training: Practical experience with statistical software like SPSS and R, plus qualitative data analysis tools such as NVivo for health-related research.

  • Substantial Research Project: A major empirical dissertation where students design and conduct original research in areas like chronic illness management, health behaviour change, or psychosocial oncology.

  • Clinical Research Links: Opportunities to engage with ongoing health psychology research through King's Health Psychology Research Group and its partnerships with NHS trusts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of King’s College London MSc Addictions gain advanced conceptual, clinical, and policy knowledge for roles such as Addiction Specialist, Drug Worker, Service Manager, Substance Misuse Nurse, or Research Assistant:

  • King’s Careers Service and IoPPN provide job search support, career workshops, and clinically supervised research placements through NHS partners and leading addiction consultancies.

  • Employment outcomes are strong: graduates secure clinical, service management, and policy positions; typical starting salaries range from £32,000–£40,000.

  • Partnerships include NHS, King's Centre for Addiction Studies, and national/international policy organisations, facilitating field experience and mentorship.

  • Accredited and internationally recognised, the program ensures professional credibility in clinical, research, and policy sectors.

  • Graduates drive addiction treatment, prevention, and research innovation in public health and mental health domains.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue a PhD (Addiction Science, Psychology, or Public Health) or advanced clinical doctorates, as well as leadership and research roles in addiction services and health policy.

Program Key Stats

£42,800 (Annual cost)
£
Sept Intake : 9th Mar


13 %
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
6.0
92
2:1
1190
29

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Addictions Counselor
  • Substance Misuse Practitioner
  • Policy Advisor
  • Harm Reduction Specialist
  • Research Officer in Addiction Science
  • Treatment Service Coordinator

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts