MSc in Psychological Research

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc in Psychological Research at the University of Exeter offers rigorous training in research design, data analysis, and scientific writing, preparing students for doctoral study or research-based careers. It suits students seeking a strong foundation in empirical methods across cognitive, social, and clinical psychology.

Curriculum Structure:
In the first term, students develop core skills through Advanced Statistics and Research Methods and Current Issues in Psychological Research, focusing on experimental design and critical evaluation. The second term introduces specialised modules such as Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience and Applied Research Skills, enhancing understanding of brain-behaviour relationships and applied contexts. In the final term, students complete a Research Dissertation, conducting independent research under expert supervision.

Focus areas: "Research design, cognitive neuroscience, data analysis, psychological theory"
Learning outcomes: "Students gain advanced skills in data collection, critical analysis, and psychological research communication."
Professional alignment (accreditation): Designed in accordance with British Psychological Society (BPS) postgraduate research standards.
Reputation (employability rankings): Recognised for excellence in psychology research and postgraduate training (QS, Guardian).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the University of Exeter's MSc in Psychological Research develop advanced practical skills through intensive training in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. They utilise the department's specialist research facilities, including labs for cognitive neuroscience and social psychology, and engage directly with its research groups. This hands-on experience is central to the programme:

Software: Advanced training in R, MATLAB, SPSS, and often fMRI analysis tools or NVivo.
Research Projects: Multiple practical projects, culminating in a substantial master's thesis conducted within a research group.
Laboratories: Access to labs for EEG, eye-tracking, virtual reality, and behavioural observation.
Quantitative & Qualitative Training: Intensive practical workshops in advanced statistics, neuroimaging, and qualitative methods.
Research Groups: Direct involvement with one of the department's research centres, such as the Mood Disorders Centre.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Psychology (Conversion) at the University of Exeter obtain a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited degree, enabling them to enter diverse psychology professions despite having no prior psychology background. Typical roles include Clinical Psychologist Trainee, Educational Psychologist, Organisational Psychologist, and Forensic Psychologist.

Exeter’s Career Zone provides personalised career coaching, job matching, and access to professional research and health networks.
Approximately 97% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, with competitive salaries in psychology roles.
The program has robust NHS, educational, and public sector partnerships for placements and career opportunities.
BPS accreditation grants Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), essential for further training.
Graduates progress to clinical, educational, forensic, and organisational psychology fields.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often continue to PhD research, doctoral clinical psychology training, or specialised psychology practice.

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