MSc Mental Health Science

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Bristol

Program Overview

The MSc Mental Health Science at the University of Bristol provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding mental health through psychology, neuroscience, and data science. It suits students aiming for research or clinical careers focused on mental health diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Curriculum Structure:
Students gain advanced knowledge in Foundations of Mental Health Science, Neuroscience of Mental Disorders, and Statistical Methods for Mental Health Research. The program combines theoretical learning with practical training in data analysis and psychological research. A major Research Project allows students to investigate specific aspects of mental health, bridging scientific study and clinical application.

Focus Areas: "Mental health research, neuroscience, data analysis, clinical science"

Learning Outcomes: "Students develop expertise in mental health theory, research design, and data interpretation, preparing for academic or clinical research careers."

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Designed to meet research and professional standards aligned with leading psychological and biomedical frameworks.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Bristol is ranked among the UK’s top universities for psychology and neuroscience, with strong research impact and graduate employability (QS, Guardian).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This programme provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological science through hands-on research experience and practical skill development. Students gain essential laboratory and analytical skills using the University's specialist psychology research facilities. This practical approach is delivered through:

  • Psychological Research Facilities: Access to Bristol's specialist research labs, including eye-tracking suites, EEG equipment, and behavioural testing laboratories.

  • Research Methods Training: Comprehensive practical training in statistical analysis using software like SPSS and R, plus experimental design and data interpretation.

  • Laboratory Research Projects: Hands-on experience designing and conducting psychological experiments across different domains of psychology.

  • Research-Led Teaching: Engagement with current psychological research through Bristol's School of Psychological Science and its various research groups.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Mental Health Science at the University of Bristol gain advanced practical and research skills in mental health, preparing them for impactful roles across health, research, public sector, and policy. Many secure positions in clinical support, governmental health agencies, research institutes, and NGOs, leveraging Bristol’s focus on biopsychosocial approaches and extensive training in mental health evidence, data analysis, and public engagement. This programme enhances employability across mental health fields and serves as a strong foundation for specialist postgraduate and professional routes:​

  • Typical job roles include Graduate Mental Health Researcher, Public Health Analyst, Clinical Support Worker, and Data Scientist in health services.​

  • The School of Psychological Science and the university-wide Careers Service offer dedicated employability workshops, research portfolio building, mentoring, and access to employer networks in mental health, social care, and public health.​

  • The majority of graduates obtain roles within six months in research, health, and public service, with starting salaries from £25,000–£35,000 depending on sector and responsibility.​

  • Industry and public-sector partnerships provide opportunities for placements, internships, and research collaborations in NHS, civil service, and mental health organisations.​

  • The programme is recognised for its authentic assessments and professional-development focus, which aligns with contemporary mental health employment and research requirements.​

  • Graduation outcomes include strong progression into clinical, policy, data, and research posts or preparation for further specialist professional and doctoral training.​

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may proceed to doctoral programmes (PhD or DClinPsy), specialist MSc courses in clinical, counselling, or health psychology, or advanced professional qualifications in mental health science and epidemiology.​

Program Key Stats

£29,800 (Annual cost)
£
Sept Intake : 27th Aug


59 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
95
2:1
1300
24
No

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Assistant Psychologist
  • Research Assistant
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner
  • HR Officer
  • PhD Researcher

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