MSc Research Methods in Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

he MSc Research Methods in Psychology at Swansea University offers specialised training in advanced psychological research techniques, preparing students for careers in academia, applied psychology or industry research. It suits graduates of psychology (or related disciplines) who wish to deepen their methodological expertise and undertake independent empirical work.

Curriculum structure:
Year 1 (Full-time): Students begin with core modules such as Computing Skills (focusing on software like SuperLab and E-Prime) and Statistical Methods, where they acquire essential programming and quantitative-analytics skills. In the next term they progress to units like Qualitative Methods and Generic Research Skills – Research Methods in Psychology, developing strong competence in qualitative research design, mixed-methods integration and broad research-tool literacy. The year culminates in the 60-credit Dissertation (MSc Research Methods), in which students conduct a substantial independent empirical project, applying their analytic and methodological learning to a psychology research question.

Focus areas:
"quantitative research methods, qualitative and mixed-methods, advanced data analysis, empirical psychology"

Learning outcomes:
"Graduates will master advanced research-methods techniques in psychology, design and execute rigorous empirical studies, and critically evaluate methodological choices in psychological research."

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This programme is recognised as a strong preparation for doctoral study or research-intensive roles; while it does not confer chartered psychologist status via the British Psychological Society, it provides future research-training eligibility and methodological credentials.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Swansea University’s School of Psychology achieved 100% “world-leading/internationally excellent” in research impact (REF 2021), reflecting a high-quality research environment that enhances graduate employability in psychologically-oriented research roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

specialist facilities. They have access to neuroimaging equipment and dedicated research labs. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Project: A dissertation using advanced research methodologies
Facilities: Access to neuroimaging centres (MEG/EEG) and psychology research labs
Software: Training in advanced statistical packages and research tools
Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with brain imaging and research equipment
Methodology Training: Practical instruction in both quantitative and qualitative methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Research Methods in Psychology at Swansea University acquire advanced expertise in psychological research design, data analysis, and ethical research practice, equipping them for diverse roles in research, academia, and applied psychology fields. Typical job roles include Research Assistant, Data Analyst, Clinical Research Coordinator, and Policy Analyst. The program provides a strong foundation for careers that demand high-level research and analytical skills, applicable across healthcare, public policy, and private sectors.

Progression and Future Opportunities:

Swansea University Careers and Employability Service supports students with tailored career advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to relevant internships and networking events.
Graduates benefit from Swansea's global reputation and research excellence, reflected in robust employment outcomes and growing demand for research skills in psychology.
Strong collaborations with health services, academic research centres, and governmental organisations provide practical experience and professional networking opportunities.
The program’s BPS validation ensures long-term accreditation value for further professional psychology training.
Graduates report positive employment trajectories with competitive salaries in research and clinical support roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can progress to doctoral research degrees (PhD or MSc by Research) in psychology or related disciplines, enhancing their research career prospects or preparing for clinical doctorate training.