MSc Psychology (Conversion)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Dundee

Program Overview

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at University of Dundee is a one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) accredited pathway designed for graduates from non-psychology backgrounds who wish to qualify for the British Psychological Society Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). It covers the core domains of psychology and equips students with research methods, cognition, development and individual-differences knowledge. 

Curriculum Structure:
In the initial year students complete modules including Biological Psychology (PY51009), Cognition (PY51010) and Developmental Psychology (PY51012), where they explore brain-behaviour links, cognitive processing and lifespan development.
They then progress into modules such as Social Psychology (PY51014) and Individual Differences and Psychopathology (PY51013), deepening their understanding of group behaviour, personality, mental-health conditions and diversity in psychology. 
The programme culminates in the Research Dissertation (PY50007) worth 60 credits, where students design and execute an empirical project under supervision, applying their theoretical and methodological learning. 

Focus areas:
"core psychological domains, research methods, cognitive & developmental processes, social behaviour, mental-health & individual differences"

Learning outcomes:
"Graduates will master foundational psychological theory across domains, apply quantitative and qualitative research methods independently, and complete an original empirical project in psychology."

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), making graduates eligible for GBC and thus enabling progression to many UK professional psychology training pathways. 

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Dundee is known for its strong research facilities and commitment to student employability, with the conversion MSc attracting students who go on to roles in data-analysis, assistant psychology or further postgraduate training in psychology. 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical research skills through hands-on projects using the School of Psychology's specialist facilities. They have access to the Devolved Brains Lab and other developmental research resources. The programme's experiential components include:

  • Research Project: A dissertation in developmental psychology

  • Laboratory Access: Use of developmental psychology research facilities

  • Software: Training in statistical analysis software

  • Technical Skills: Development of developmental research methodologies

  • Applied Focus: Practical training in child development assessment methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Dundee provides graduates with comprehensive, BPS-accredited foundational knowledge and research skills, preparing them for a broad range of psychology professions. Graduates typically pursue careers in assistant psychology, mental health support, research, and data analysis roles, highlighting strong employment prospects and career development.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

  • University services include personalized academic support, dedicated career coaching, employability workshops, and internship placement assistance in healthcare, education, and research settings.

  • Graduate employment rates are robust, with starting salaries generally ranging from £28,000 to £35,000 depending on the sector and role.

  • The program has strong collaborations with NHS trusts, local mental health services, and research institutions, enhancing practical experience and professional networking.

  • The degree offers long-term value through British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation, granting eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, essential for further professional training.

  • Typical job roles: Assistant Psychologist, Mental Health Practitioner, Data Analyst, Research Assistant.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to doctoral training (PhD or DClinPsy) or specialist postgraduate courses to become chartered psychologists or pursue academic careers.

Program Key Stats

£23,700 (Annual cost)
Sept Intake : 30th Jul


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.4
3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
6.0
80
2:2

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Child Development Researcher
  • Research Assistant
  • Family Support Worker
  • Early Years Consultant
  • Policy Officer (Children's Services)
  • Child Wellbeing Practitioner
  • PhD Researcher
  • Nursery Manager
  • Special Educational Needs (SEN) Assistant
  • Play Therapist (with further training)

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