MSc Psychology (Conversion)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Birmingham

Program Overview

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Birmingham is designed for graduates from non-psychology backgrounds who wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of psychological science. It provides the academic foundation needed for further professional training or research in psychology.

Curriculum Structure:
Students explore key areas including Biological, Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, Social and Individual Differences, and Research Methods and Statistics. The program integrates theory with practical application, culminating in an Empirical Research Project that develops students’ independent research and analytical skills.

Focus Areas: "Biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, research methods"

Learning Outcomes: "Students gain a scientific understanding of human behavior, master research design and analysis, and prepare for postgraduate or professional psychology training."

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), offering Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC).

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Birmingham ranks among the UK’s top institutions for psychology in both QS and Guardian rankings.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Birmingham develop practical skills using the School of Psychology's specialist research infrastructure. This hands-on learning is delivered through:

  • Software & Tools: Training in SPSS, R, E-Prime, and PsychoPy for data analysis and experiment design.

  • Research Facilities: Access to world-class labs, including the Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH) with EEG, TMS, and MEG, and dedicated testing cubicles for student projects.

  • Research Project: A core, supervised independent research project where you design and conduct your own empirical study.

  • Expert Environment: Learning within a school housing leading research institutes like the Institute for Mental Health, with regular research seminars.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Psychology (conversion)  at the University of Birmingham acquire strong analytical and research skills that open diverse career opportunities in mental health, education, and corporate sectors. Typical roles include Clinical Psychologist, Counsellor, Health Psychologist, and Educational Psychologist. The program supports career readiness through dedicated university services, fostering employability for both clinical and non-clinical roles:

  • Specific careers support includes one-to-one guidance, workshops, and access to employer networks through the university’s Careers and Employability Service.

  • High employment rates with graduates earning starting salaries around £29,000 to £33,000, depending on sector and role.

  • Partnerships with NHS trusts, educational institutions, and mental health organizations provide placements and employment pathways.

  • The British Psychological Society accreditation lends long-term professional credibility and eligibility for further chartered training.

  • Graduates progress to clinical, educational, forensic, or health psychology careers, or other applied research roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may advance to Clinical Doctorates, PhDs, or specialized BPS Stage 2 training programs in various psychology specialties.

Program Key Stats

£31,500 (Annual cost)
£
Sept Intake : 3rd Jul


60 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
6.5
88
2:1
1400
25

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Research Assistant
  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Data Analyst
  • PhD Researcher
  • Human Resources Officer
  • Mental Health Support Worker

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