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The MSc Health Psychology at Northumbria University provides advanced knowledge of how psychological, biological, and social factors influence health and illness. It suits psychology graduates seeking careers in health-related research, policy, or progression toward professional Health Psychologist training (Stage 2).
Curriculum structure:
In this intensive one-year programme, students develop expertise through modules such as Health Psychology in Theory and Practice, Systems Approaches to Understanding Health and Disease, and Qualitative and Quantitative Methods. These courses build a strong foundation in the theoretical, biological, and methodological principles that underpin health psychology. Students also complete Professional Skills—focusing on ethics, communication, and applied contexts—and an independent MSc Thesis, conducting an original piece of health-psychology research under academic supervision.
Focus areas:
"health psychology; behaviour change; biopsychosocial approaches; quantitative and qualitative methods; professional skills; empirical research"
Learning outcomes:
"apply psychological theory to health and illness; demonstrate advanced research design and analysis skills; conduct independent empirical research; communicate effectively within professional health settings"
Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as Stage 1 Training in Health Psychology—eligible graduates can progress toward Stage 2 and Chartered Health Psychologist status.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Northumbria University ranks 15th in the UK for research power in Psychology (REF 2021) and is recognised for excellent graduate outcomes and student satisfaction in The Times Good University Guide 2026.
Students develop practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major research project. They have access to Northumbria's state-of-the-art facilities including the Northumbria Sleep Research Laboratory and psychophysiology equipment. The programme's experiential components include:
Research Project: A substantial independent empirical project
Specialist Laboratories: Access to sleep research, eye-tracking, and brain stimulation labs
Software: Training in SPSS, MATLAB, and E-Prime
Technical Equipment: Use of EEG, eye-tracking, and TMS apparatus
Practical Training: Hands-on experience with advanced psychological research methods
The MSc Health Psychology at Northumbria University prepares graduates with strong skills in applying psychological theories and research to health and illness management. Graduates typically work as assistant psychologists, health promotion officers, clinical researchers, or consultancy professionals, with a solid foundation for further clinical training.
Progression & Future Opportunities:
University services include career coaching, placement support within NHS and public health sectors, practical skill workshops, and a postgraduate support hub.
About 90% of graduates secure employment or further study within 15 months; typical starting salaries range from £22,000 to £36,000.
Partnerships with NHS trusts, health organizations, and consultancy firms enhance practical training and employment opportunities.
The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as a Stage 1 practitioner route, conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.
Typical roles: Assistant Psychologist, Health Promotion Officer, Clinical Researcher, Behavioural Consultant.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can proceed to Stage 2 clinical psychology training, research PhDs, or specialist psychoanalytic postgraduate programs such as the MA Psychoanalytic Studies.
A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree in Psychology (or MSc equivalent), or a minimum of a 2:1 in another subject including relevant work experience.India- 60% (60% includes Delhi/Mumbai/Pune Universities) for ONE YEAR courses requiring a 2:1 USA- GPA of 3.0* or above for courses which require a UK 2:1 equivalentIELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 6 in each component (or approved equivalent*).Health PsychologistProgram CoordinatorEducation Project ManagerPsychology AssociatePersonnel PsychologistSr Program Manager
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