The MSc Psychology of Mental Health (Conversion) at the University of Edinburgh provides a foundation in core psychological principles for graduates from other disciplines. It suits students aiming for a professional career or further training in clinical or counselling psychology.
Curriculum Structure:
Students cover essential modules such as Cognitive Psychology, Biological Psychology, and Developmental Psychology, gaining a scientific understanding of human behaviour. Advanced modules like Research Methods and Statistics and Mental Health and Illness develop analytical and applied research skills. The program concludes with a Dissertation Project on a mental health topic of choice.
Focus Areas: "Core psychology, mental health, cognitive and biological bases of behaviour, research methods"
Learning Outcomes: "Students gain knowledge of psychological theory, mental health understanding, and research competence necessary for postgraduate or professional psychology pathways."
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), providing eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Edinburgh ranks among the world’s top universities for psychology (QS World Rankings).
This programme focuses on developing practical skills in delivering evidence-based psychological interventions through clinical skills workshops and supervised practice. Students learn to apply therapeutic techniques using the University's specialist training facilities and digital health platforms. This applied approach is delivered through:
Clinical Skills Suite: Access to dedicated training facilities with observation rooms and recording equipment for developing and refining therapeutic competencies through simulated practice.
Digital Health Platforms: Training in using NHS-approved digital therapy systems and outcome monitoring tools like Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs).
Clinical Placements: Opportunities for supervised practice in NHS Scotland services and partner mental health organisations.
Therapy Manuals and Protocols: Practical training using established treatment manuals for CBT, IPT, and other NICE-recommended interventions.
Graduates of the University of Edinburgh MSc Psychology of Mental Health (Conversion) gain comprehensive scientific and research skills meeting British Psychological Society requirements for chartered membership. Typical roles include Assistant Psychologist, Mental Health Support Worker, Research Assistant, or Graduate Trainee in clinical and policy settings:
University Careers Service provides dedicated support, networking, and guidance for career routes into clinical psychology, mental health services, and doctoral programs; the course team organizes guest lectures, workshops, and links to NHS, charities, and research centres for industry engagement and placements.
76% graduate satisfaction; median salary 15 months after graduation is £25,250, rising to £30,500 at 3 years and £41,500 after 5 years in roles spanning business, research, health, and policy.
Accredited by the British Psychological Society, this is the only UK conversion MSc focused on psychology of mental health; the curriculum is jointly delivered by psychological science and clinical psychology faculty, with strong research foundations.
Graduates secure eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), shaping routes into clinical, counseling, occupational, and forensic psychology plus further research.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates regularly progress to doctoral programs (DClinPsy, PhD), professional training, or specialist mental health careers, building pathways into advanced psychology roles and research.



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