MSc Psychological Studies

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The MSc Psychological Studies at University of Aberdeen offers a comprehensive introduction to psychological science for graduates of any discipline, covering how people think, feel and behave across the lifespan. It suits those who wish to change career direction into psychology or build foundational expertise for further specialist study in areas like health, occupational or clinical psychology.

Curriculum structure:
In the first term, students engage with modules such as Core Psychological Studies 1: Cognitive, Biological & Individual Differences and Introduction to Methods and Analysis in Psychology, developing an understanding of brain-behaviour links, personality variation and key research methods. In the second term, they proceed to Core Psychological Studies 2: Social & Developmental and Advanced Methods and Analysis in Psychology, where they explore social interactions, lifespan development and more advanced statistical, experimental and qualitative research methods. The year culminates with a Research Project (60 credits), enabling students to design and conduct an independent empirical study under supervision.

Focus areas: "foundation psychology disciplines, research methods, lifespan development, individual differences"
Learning outcomes: "Students will acquire in-depth knowledge across core psychological domains, master quantitative and qualitative research techniques, and develop the ability to carry out independent empirical investigations."
Professional alignment (accreditation): Completion of this programme provides eligibility for consideration towards the British Psychological Society (BPS) Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), enabling access to specialist routes in psychology.
Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Aberdeen is ranked among the UK’s top institutions for psychology and wider social sciences; graduates of this conversion-type master’s gain versatile skills valued across research, policy, education and applied psychology roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major independent project. They have access to the School of Psychology's specialist facilities, including eye-tracking and EEG labs. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Project: A substantial independent dissertation in psychology
Laboratory Access: Use of specialist equipment, including eye-trackers and EEG systems
Software: Training in statistical analysis software
Research Methods: Practical training in experimental design and data analysis
Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with psychological research equipment

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Psychological Studies at the University of Aberdeen gain a comprehensive foundation in psychology, opening pathways into diverse careers in research, public service, education, and business. Typical roles include Business and Public Service Associate Professional, Teaching Professional, Finance Professional, and IT Professional. This program is suited for graduates from other fields seeking to convert to psychology and build a scientific understanding of human behaviour for various professional contexts.

Progression and Future Opportunities:

Aberdeen’s Careers Service offers tailored support, including career consultations, CV workshops, and job placement assistance specifically for psychology graduates.
Employment statistics show approximately 76% student satisfaction, with median salaries starting around £21,500 fifteen months post-graduation, increasing to around £26,500 after five years.
The program benefits from university partnerships with local public services and businesses, providing networking and practical experience opportunities.
The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), giving Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), a crucial step for further professional training.
Graduates report strong employability outcomes, with around 5% unemployment shortly after graduation.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue specialist MSc courses (e.g., Health or Occupational Psychology), undertake MRes research training, or progress to doctoral programs (PhD or ClinPsyD) for professional psychology practice and research careers.