The MA Psychology and Education at the University of Sheffield explores the intersection of psychological theory and educational practice. It suits students interested in applying psychology to improve learning, teaching, and educational policy.
Curriculum Structure:
In the first stage, students gain grounding in The Psychology of Learning and Instruction and Developmental Psychology and Education, understanding how cognition and motivation shape learning outcomes. They also study Research Methods in Psychology and Education to develop skills in data collection and analysis. In the final stage, the Dissertation Project allows students to conduct independent research on topics such as educational interventions or learner development.
Focus areas: "Educational psychology, developmental psychology, learning theory, research methods"
Learning outcomes: "Students will learn to apply psychological principles to educational settings, design and evaluate interventions, and conduct evidence-based research in psychology and education."
Professional alignment (accreditation): The program aligns with psychological research standards and supports progression toward further professional training in educational or academic psychology.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Sheffield is ranked among the top UK universities for education and psychology research excellence (QS, Guardian).
Students on the University of Sheffield's MA Psychology and Education develop practical research skills through direct engagement with educational settings and critical analysis of learning environments. They utilise resources from both the School of Education and the Department of Psychology, with a focus on real-world application. This experiential learning is structured around key activities:
Research Projects: An independent empirical dissertation, often involving data collection in schools or other educational contexts.
Software: Training in qualitative data analysis software like NVivo and statistical packages such as SPSS.
Fieldwork: Opportunities for primary research and observation within local educational institutions and community organisations.
Digital Tools: Use of online survey platforms and digital research tools for data gathering in educational settings.
Libraries & Archives: Access to the University's Education Library and its specialised collections on child development and learning.
Graduates of the MA Psychology and Education at the University of Sheffield gain specialized knowledge in psychological theories applied to educational settings, preparing them for diverse roles in teaching, educational support, policy, and mental health. Typical roles include Teacher, Educational Psychologist Assistant, School Counsellor, and Education Policy Advisor. The program fosters critical thinking, research skills, and practical applications relevant to contemporary educational challenges:
The university’s Careers Service offers tailored employability workshops, one-on-one career coaching, and an extensive alumni network within education and psychology sectors.
Graduates report strong employment outcomes, with 92% in employment or further study within 15 months, and salaries varying by role and sector.
Partnerships with schools, local education authorities, and NGOs provide placements and collaboration opportunities.
The interdisciplinary curriculum delivers long-term academic and professional benefits, supporting career progression in education and mental health.
Graduation outcomes include roles in teaching, educational leadership, mental health support, and policy development.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may pursue PhD research in educational psychology or counseling, or professional qualification in educational or clinical psychology.



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