MSc Research Methods in Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Abertay Dundee

Program Overview

The MSc Research Methods in Psychology at Abertay University trains students to master advanced methods, data analysis, and research design, preparing them for research-intensive careers or doctoral work in psychology. It suits graduates (psychology or related fields) who want to build strong technical and analytical expertise for academic or data-driven roles. 

Curriculum Structure

Across the year, students first take Core Data Analysis, acquiring skills in statistical software (R, Jamovi, Excel) and foundational quantitative and qualitative analysis.  They then progress to Advanced Research Methods, where they design custom studies, learn practical and technical research techniques, and refine their methodological toolkit.  The final part of the programme is the MSc Dissertation, in which each student conducts an independent empirical research project under supervision — applying what they’ve learned to a real research question. 

Focus areas (string):
“Quantitative & qualitative research methods, data analysis, experimental design, empirical research, applied research skills”

Learning outcomes (in a string):
“Proficiency in statistical and qualitative analysis; ability to design and run rigorous psychological research; competence in data management and ethical research practices; readiness for PhD programs or data-driven careers.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Approved by Scottish Graduate School of Social Sciences (SGSSS) — provides a recognised research-methods qualification suitable for doctoral studies or advanced research roles. Abertay+1

Reputation (employability rankings):
Graduates acquire high-demand skills for academic, public-health, market-research, and data-analysis jobs; the programme is marketed as equipping “data-driven” professionals in both academia and industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain advanced practical research skills through hands-on experiments in Abertay's specialist psychology laboratories, including their dedicated perception and cognition research facilities. This research-intensive programme focuses on developing professional-level research competencies, with key experiential components including:

  • Software: Advanced training in SPSS, R, and E-Prime for statistical analysis and experimental design.

  • Research Project: Conducting a substantial independent research dissertation as a capstone experience.

  • Laboratories: Access to specialist research suites for eye-tracking, psychophysics, and behavioural testing.

  • Group Work: Collaborative research projects developing team-based scientific investigation skills.

  • Professional Development: Intensive research training preparing for PhD study or research careers in academic and applied settings.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Crime, Justice and Psychology at University of Leicester develop expertise in the psychological aspects of crime and offender management, leading to roles such as forensic psychologist trainee, probation officer, criminal justice analyst, and policy researcher:

  • The university's Career Development Service provides CV workshops, interview coaching, and alerts to opportunities in criminal justice agencies.

  • Graduates secure employment in police, prisons, probation services, forensic health settings, and government; ~10% pursue doctoral studies, with salaries typically £25,000–£35,000.​

  • Partnerships with statutory criminal justice agencies, forensic health providers, and third-sector organisations offer practical experience and networking.

  • The program builds long-term skills in offender rehabilitation, risk assessment, and policy analysis valued across justice sectors.

  • High pass rates and positive evaluations support strong graduation outcomes in research and applied roles.​

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue doctoral research leading to academic or research careers, or professional training in forensic psychology and criminal justice.​

Program Key Stats

£18,950 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


20 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

3 - 3.3
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.0
78
2:1

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Scientist
  • Contractual/Research Assistant Clinical
  • Postdoctoral Psychology Fellowship
  • Human Performance Scientific Information Analyst
  • Survey Statistican

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