MSc Health Psychology

The MSc Health Psychology at Canterbury Christ Church University offers a research-led degree that gives students a deep understanding of how psychological theory applies to health, illness, and behaviour change. It is ideal for graduates aiming to work as health psychologists, researchers, or in health promotion and consultancy.

Curriculum Structure

In the first (taught) year, students study Health Psychology in the 21st Century, where they explore the development, role, and scope of health psychology in modern healthcare contexts, and Stress and Health, examining stress theory, coping, and the psychological impacts of long-term illness. They also take Understanding and Managing Long-Term Chronic Health Conditions, learning about the cognitive, social, and behavioural influences on chronic disease management.

Alongside these, Advanced Research Methods and Approaches 1 and 2 train students in complex quantitative analysis (e.g., regression, MANOVA) and qualitative methodologies, preparing for rigorous health-psychology research. In the final phase, students complete a Dissertation, designing and conducting an independent empirical project on a topic related to health, behaviour change, or intervention.

Focus areas (string):
“Health psychology theory, stress and coping, chronic illness, behaviour change, advanced research methods, independent health psychology research”

Learning outcomes (in a string):
“Advanced knowledge of health-psychological processes; ability to design and conduct mixed-method research; skills in behaviour-change intervention; readiness for professional Stage 2 training or applied health roles”

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is BPS-accredited as Stage 1 training in Health Psychology.

Reputation (employability rankings):
CCCU’s MSc prepares graduates for roles in healthcare, public health, research, or consultancy, and is part of a well-established psychology department with strong applied training.