MSc Psychological Research Methods

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The MSc Psychological Research Methods at University of Lincoln offers advanced training in research design, analysis, and methodology within psychology, equipping students to tackle real-world problems and pursue doctoral study. It is suited both to psychology graduates and to those from other disciplines who want to develop rigorous research skills and gain the British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1 (Full-time) / Term 1: Students begin by studying Advanced Research Methods in Psychology (Core) where they learn multivariate statistics, factor analysis, qualitative analysis and methodological critique. They also take Applied Neuropsychology (Core) engaging with cognitive neuroscience methods and assessment frameworks.
Year 1 / Term 2: In Brain, Behaviour and Lifespan Development (Core) students explore how environmental, genetic and neural factors affect behaviour across the lifespan. Meanwhile, Evolution and Human Social Behaviour (Core) introduces evolutionary frameworks for human cognition and social processes.

Focus areas:
“quantitative & qualitative research methods; neuropsychology; lifespan development; evolutionary psychology; empirical dissertation”

Learning outcomes:
“master advanced psychological research design and analysis; apply methodological rigor to cognitive and behavioural phenomena; conduct original empirical research; critically evaluate methods and theory; prepare for doctoral study or high-level research careers”

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

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Lincoln is recognised for its strong research-led psychology teaching and its School of Psychology’s specialised labs (e.g., EEG, infant & child development). Graduates are well-placed for PhD entry, research assistant roles, data analyst positions and applied psychology careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop advanced research skills through hands-on projects using the School of Psychology's specialist facilities, including the Lincoln Sleep Laboratory and cognitive neuroscience equipment. This practical training is delivered through:

Sleep Laboratory: Access to specialised sleep research facilities
Research Project: A substantial empirical dissertation using advanced methodologies
Software Training: Proficiency in SPSS, R, and experimental design platforms
Technical Equipment: Hands-on experience with EEG, eye-tracking, and cognitive assessment tools
Methodology Training: Practical instruction in both quantitative and qualitative research methods

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Lincoln MSc Psychological Research Methods program typically pursue careers in research and data analysis, working as Research Scientists, Data Analysts, Academic Researchers, and Clinical Trial Coordinators. The program prepares students with rigorous training in qualitative and quantitative methodologies, research design, scientific writing, and statistical analysis applied to a broad spectrum of psychological questions.

Key employability and progression details:

The university provides tailored employability support such as academic mentoring, work-based research placements through the advanced internship module, career workshops, and access to a network of research partners.
Around 93% of graduates secure relevant employment or continue to further study within 15 months, with salaries typical of early-career research roles in psychology, healthcare, or industry.
University partnerships include NHS trusts, academic research centres, and commercial organisations, offering students practical research experience and professional networking.
The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, foundational for further professional training.
Graduates develop expertise in applied research methods, advanced statistical techniques, ethical research conduct, and dissemination skills, supporting diverse career opportunities.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates often progress to PhD research in psychology or pursue professional research positions, with the MSc providing a strong foundation for academic and specialist roles.