Psychological Research Methods MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Dundee

Program Overview

The MSc Psychological Research Methods at the University of Dundee gives psychology graduates advanced theoretical and practical training in research methodology, combining skills modules, themed study work, a research assistantship, and a dissertation. It suits those who wish to build a strong methodological foundation for roles in research, academia or data-driven applied psychology.

Curriculum structure:
In the first phase, students take core units like Research Foundations (PY51001) and Qualitative Research Methods (PY51002), gaining grounding in scientific logic, qualitative design and reproducible research. In the next phase they complete Advanced Quantitative Methods (PY52007) and work within Psychology in Practice (PY50003), where advanced statistics meet real-world lab or placement experience. The programme culminates with the Research Dissertation (PY52004), where students design and execute a substantial empirical study under supervision, integrating earlier methodological training.

Focus areas:
"quantitative & qualitative methods, research design, empirical dissertation, psychology lab practice"

Learning outcomes:
"Graduates will master advanced methodological techniques, conduct independent empirical research, and critically apply both quantitative and qualitative methods to psychological enquiry."

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While not a practitioner-accrediting programme, the MSc is designed as preparation for PhD study and high-level research roles in psychology.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Dundee offers strong lab-based research facilities (e.g., eye-tracking, EEG) and the programme reports high student satisfaction and strong progression into research roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop advanced research skills through hands-on projects using the School of Psychology's specialist facilities. They have access to neuroimaging equipment and dedicated research labs. The programme's experiential components include:

Research Project: A dissertation using advanced research methodologies
Facilities: Access to EEG, TMS, and other research equipment
Software: Training in SPSS, R, and other statistical packages
Technical Skills: Development of research design and data analysis capabilities
Methodology Training: Practical instruction in both quantitative and qualitative methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Psychological Research Methods at the University of Dundee prepares graduates with strong theoretical and practical research skills applicable across psychology disciplines. Graduates often pursue roles in research, data analysis, academic support, and assistant psychology, benefiting from early engagement in active research labs and experience in various research techniques.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University services include targeted employability workshops, career coaching, and research assistantships that offer valuable hands-on experience.
Approximately 90% of graduates are in employment or further study 15 months post-graduation.
The program involves partnerships with active research groups and access to advanced research equipment, enhancing practical learning and professional networking.
Although not professionally accredited, the MSc is highly respected for preparing students for academic research careers and related roles.
Typical roles include Research Assistant, Data Analyst, Assistant Psychologist, and Academic Support Officer.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates are well-positioned to pursue doctoral study (PhD) in psychology or related research fields, or to advance into clinical or educational psychology training pathways

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