The MSc Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) at the University of East London is a practitioner-focused programme that combines scientific theory with real-world applications in wellbeing, coaching, and organisations. It suits graduates and professionals who want to use positive psychology to promote flourishing in individuals, teams, or business settings.
Curriculum Structure:
In the first phase, students study the core module Introduction to Applied Positive Psychology, where they explore the foundations of well-being, strength-based approaches, resilience, creativity, and optimism. As they progress, they choose from optional modules such as Positive Psychology at Work, Applied Psychology for Coaches, Positive Psychology Coaching, Positive Consultancy & Training, and Positive Relationships, tailoring their pathway to their interests. The programme culminates in a Capstone Major Project / Dissertation, through which students conduct original empirical or applied research under supervision.
Focus areas: “Well-being science; strengths and resilience; coaching psychology; organisational flourishing; empirical research.”
Learning outcomes: “Integrate positive psychology theory into practice, design and deliver coaching or consultancy interventions, understand organisational dynamics, and lead independent research in wellbeing.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): The coaching-psychology pathway is linked with EMCC Master Practitioner accreditation.
Reputation (employability rankings): UEL is ranked 6th for graduate start-ups, reflecting strong support for entrepreneurial and consultancy careers.
Students develop practical research skills through hands-on laboratory work and a major research project. They have access to UEL's specialist facilities including EEG and other cognitive research equipment in the psychology laboratories. The programme's experiential components include:
Research Project: A substantial independent empirical project
Laboratory Access: Use of EEG and other cognitive research equipment
Software: Training in SPSS and other statistical packages
Technical Skills: Development of research design and data analysis capabilities
Practical Training: Hands-on experience with psychological research methods
Graduates of the MSc Applied Positive Psychology at University of East London are equipped to promote wellbeing, resilience, and flourishing in individuals and organizations across diverse settings. Typical job roles include Wellbeing Consultant, Positive Psychology Coach, Organisational Development Advisor, and Mental Health Practitioner.
Key points:
University careers services provide coaching, mentoring, internship placement support, and a unique “Mental Wealth Programme” with Careers Passports validated by companies like Amazon and Microsoft.
The field is growing rapidly, offering broad employment opportunities especially in coaching, training, organisational consultancy, and the charity sector, with emerging salary ranges generally around mid-£20,000s for entry-level roles.
The program is connected to established industry practitioners and offers practical, experience-based learning through case studies and projects.
The MSc course is one of the oldest and best-established of its kind in Europe, providing long-term credibility and professional value in positive psychology and coaching.
Graduates are well-prepared for flexible consultancy and practitioner roles that foster positive change and meaningful impact.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue MPhil or PhD research in positive psychology or coaching psychology or further professional training to deepen applied skills and advance their careers.



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