MSc Psychology

The MSc Psychology at the University of Hertfordshire (Herts) offers a conversion route for graduates who didn’t study psychology at the undergraduate level, providing a broad grounding in psychological theory and research methods. Students explore key areas like cognitive, social, developmental, and biological psychology, culminating in a major research project.

Curriculum structure:
During the one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) MSc, students first study Research Planning and Using Data to Address Research Questions, where they learn how to design studies and analyse data. They then cover Methods of Collecting Data in Psychology, developing skills in both experimental and survey designs, and take The Biological Basis of Psychology alongside Development, Social & Cognitive Psychology, to understand how brain processes and social development influence behaviour. The Advanced Psychology Project then gives students the opportunity to apply everything they have learned by conceiving, executing, and reporting a full research study. 

Focus areas:
“developmental psychology; cognitive neuroscience; social psychology; research methodology; biological psychology”

Learning outcomes:
On finishing, graduates can critically evaluate psychological theory, design and carry out empirical research using diverse methods, interpret complex data, and report their findings in a robust, publishable-style format.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), granting Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). 

Reputation (employability rankings):
Herts reports that 96–97% of its postgraduates are in work or further study within months of graduation, and the MSc supports entry into doctoral training, applied psychology roles, or professional psychology careers.