MSc Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at Northumbria University is an intensive one-year program designed for graduates from non-psychology backgrounds who wish to pursue a career or further training in psychology. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of psychological theory, research methods, and applied practice, preparing students for British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation.

Curriculum structure:
Throughout the year, students explore the key domains of psychology, beginning with Biological and Social Psychology and Individual Differences, Psychometrics and Social Psychology, to understand how biological mechanisms and social contexts shape human behavior. They then study Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods, gaining strong analytical and methodological skills essential for psychological research. The year culminates in an independent Empirical Research Project (MSc Thesis), where students design, conduct, and present their own original study under expert supervision.

Focus areas:
“biological psychology; social psychology; individual differences; research methods; psychometrics; empirical research project”

Learning outcomes:
“develop a scientific understanding of human behaviour; apply advanced research and analytical skills; design and evaluate psychological studies; prepare for professional or doctoral-level training in psychology”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)—a key step toward becoming a Chartered Psychologist in the UK.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Northumbria University’s Psychology Department ranks among the top in the UK for research power (REF 2021), and the university is highly rated for graduate employability in The Guardian University Guide 2025 and QS World University Rankings 2025.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

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

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Psychology at Northumbria University produces graduates equipped with comprehensive research skills and an advanced understanding of psychological principles, enabling diverse career paths. Graduates typically pursue roles in clinical assistance, research, human resources, and public sector services, underpinned by strong professional and academic preparation.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

The university offers extensive employability support including career coaching, CV and interview workshops, placement opportunities, and networking with local NHS organizations plus public and private sector employers.
Approximately 90% of graduates find employment or continue to further study within 15 months; typical starting salaries range between £22,000 and £36,000.
Strong industry partnerships with NHS trusts, local government, and private organizations facilitate practical training and employment.
The MSc is accredited by the British Psychological Society, granting Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, essential for progression in professional psychology.
Typical roles: Assistant Psychologist, Research Associate, Human Resource Specialist, Public Sector Officer.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to doctoral clinical psychology training, PhD research, or specialist clinical and psychoanalytic postgraduate programs such as the MA Psychoanalytic Studies.