MSc Psychology Conversion

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Chester

Program Overview

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Chester provides graduates from other disciplines (or those with non-accredited psychology degrees) the opportunity to earn the BPS Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). Students cover core psychological theory, research methods, and an empirical dissertation to prepare for further professional or academic psychology pathways.

Curriculum Structure

In the first two trimesters, students study a suite of core modules: Cognitive Psychology, where they examine memory, perception, problem-solving, and neuropsychology; Biological Psychology, exploring brain structure, neurochemistry, and behavioural genetics; Developmental Psychology, which covers human development from infancy through adulthood; Social Psychology, focused on group dynamics, identity, and attitudes; and Individual Differences, studying personality, intelligence, and measurement. Meanwhile, Researching Thought and Behaviour gives them hands-on experience with both qualitative methods (interviews, thematic analysis) and quantitative statistical techniques (ANOVA, regression, Bayesian inference) using software like SPSS.

In the final term, students complete the Research Dissertation, where they independently design, conduct, and report an original empirical research project, consolidating their learning in theory and method.

Focus areas (string):
“Cognitive psychology, biological bases of behaviour, lifespan development, social interaction, personality & intelligence, qualitative & quantitative research methods, empirical dissertation”

Learning outcomes (in a string):
“Comprehensive understanding of major psychological domains; competence in designing and analysing psychological research; ability to conduct an independent empirical study; eligibility for BPS GBC; readiness for specialist or doctoral training.”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Chester’s Psychology Conversion MSc is designed for career progression or further study; graduates typically move into roles in clinical, educational, health, or organisational psychology or advance to doctoral training.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain practical research skills through hands-on experiments in Chester's purpose-built psychology labs, utilising specialist equipment for cognitive and psychophysiological testing. This applied learning is central to the curriculum, with key experiential components including:

Software: Training in SPSS for statistical analysis and experiment-building platforms like E-Prime.
Research Project: Conducting a substantial independent dissertation using the department's lab facilities.
Laboratories: Access to specialist suites for eye-tracking, EEG, and behavioural observation.
Group Work: Collaborative research design and presentation tasks to develop team-based scientific skills.
Facilities & Support: Use of the university's library databases including PsycINFO and a curriculum designed for British Psychological Society (BPS) Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Psychology (Conversion) at University of Chester gain eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society, enabling careers as assistant psychologists, research assistants, mental health support workers, and roles in HR or education:

The university’s Careers and Employability Service provides tailored support including CV workshops, interview coaching, and employer networking events.
Over 95% of graduates secure employment or further study within 15 months, with typical salaries ranging widely depending on role and experience.
The School of Psychology has strong links with local healthcare and social care providers, supporting placements and research projects.
The programme’s BPS accreditation ensures long-term professional recognition and progression opportunities.
Graduates develop core psychological knowledge, research skills, and transferable competencies relevant across diverse sectors.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can pursue specialist MSc and professional doctorate training in clinical, forensic, health, occupational, educational, or sport psychology, or pursue a PhD in psychology research areas.