MSc Cognitive Psychology / Neuropsychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

The MSc Cognitive Psychology & Neuropsychology at the University of Kent explores the relationship between brain, cognition and behaviour, combining theoretical, methodological and applied study of normal and damaged cognitive systems. It suits psychology or neuroscience graduates seeking advanced research training, doctoral preparation or work in cognitive/neuropsychological domains.

Curriculum structure:
During your first phase you will complete core modules such as Advanced Research Methods & Statistics and Current Issues in Cognitive Psychology & Neuropsychology where you sharpen statistical and methodological skills while engaging with key debates in cognition, mind and brain. In the second phase you will tackle modules including Advanced Cognitive Neuroscience Methods in Practice and optional modules such as Neuropsychology of Ageing, deepening your ability to apply EEG, eye-tracking, brain-stimulation methods and to analyse change in ageing or brain-injury contexts. Finally you undertake the Psychology Research Dissertation, designing and conducting your own empirical study under supervision to integrate theoretical, methodological and applied elements of the programme.

Focus areas:
"brain–cognition relationships, neuropsychological assessment, advanced research methods, ageing & brain-injury"

Learning outcomes:
"Graduates will critically evaluate cognitive and neuropsychological theories, apply advanced quantitative and neuro-methods, and design and complete a substantial independent research project."

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as preparation for PhD-level research, and graduates are well-positioned for roles in research, cognitive/neuropsychology assistant posts or further doctoral training.

Reputation (employability rankings):
Kent’s School of Psychology is rated among the UK’s leading centres for postgraduate research training, and the MSc benefits from specialist facilities (e.g., VR and brain-stimulation labs), helping graduates secure roles in NHS assistant psychology, neuroscience research or doctoral pathways.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

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

Research Project: A substantial empirical dissertation in cognitive psychology or neuropsychology
Facilities: Access to EEG, eye-tracking, and other cognitive research equipment
Software: Training in specialist software for experimental design and data analysis
Technical Skills: Development of neuropsychological assessment and testing methods
Laboratory Work: Practical experience with cognitive and neuropsychological research protocols

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MSc Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology at the University of Kent equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of brain cognition and advanced research skills, enabling them to pursue careers in academia, clinical neuropsychology, and various professional roles within cognitive science. Graduates demonstrate positive employment outcomes, with diverse roles reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

The University of Kent provides specialised employment support, including tailored career workshops, academic advisors, and access to sector-specific internships.
Graduate earnings show a growth of about 72% between ages 23 and 31, with starting salaries around £29,000 and increasing to about £42,500 within five years.
Strong industry links and research collaborations enhance practical experience opportunities and employability.
While not professionally accredited like BPS, the program is recognised by the UK Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) for PhD research preparation.
Typical job roles include Clinical Neuropsychologist, Research Scientist, Academic Lecturer, and Cognitive Consultant.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can advance to doctoral studies (PhD or professional doctorate) in cognitive neuroscience or neuropsychology, or pursue clinical training pathways to become registered practitioners or academic researchers.