Enter OTP
The MSc Health Psychology at University of Portsmouth offers in-depth training in how psychological, biological and social factors influence health and illness, and prepares students for applied roles in health behaviour change and research. It is ideal for graduates who want to pursue work as a health psychologist or progress onto doctoral-level or professional training.
Curriculum structure:
Since this is a one-year full-time programme, students begin by developing core theoretical and research skills through modules such as Applied Psychological Research Methods (30 credits) and Psychobiological Aspects of Health (30 credits) where they examine biological and psychological determinants of health and gain methodological competence. They then engage with Theories and Intervention Approaches in Health Psychology (30 credits) to explore behaviour change, ethics and intervention design and complete Applied Health Psychology and Placement (30 credits), gaining real-world work experience in a health setting. Finally students undertake the Health Psychology Research Project (60 credits) to design, execute and report on an empirical study in health psychology.
Focus areas:
“biopsychosocial health; behavioural intervention; advanced research methods; professional placement”
Learning outcomes:
“systematic knowledge of health psychology theory; ability to design and conduct empirical health psychology research; competence in behaviour change interventions; readiness for BPS Stage 2 or research roles”
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as a Stage 1 qualification toward becoming a Chartered Health Psychologist.
Reputation (employability rankings):
The Department of Psychology at the University of Portsmouth is ranked 5th among UK modern universities for research quality (REF 2021).
Students develop practical skills through health-focused research projects and professional training for Stage 1 accreditation. They utilise the Department of Psychology's specialist facilities and have links with health organisations. The programme's experiential components include:
Research Project: A dissertation in health psychology
Professional Training: Stage 1 training towards Health Psychologist registration
Facilities: Access to psychology research laboratories
Applied Focus: Development of health behaviour change interventions
Software: Training in statistical analysis for health data
Graduates of the MSc Health Psychology program at the University of Portsmouth are well-positioned for careers in health psychology practice, research, and consultancy. Typical job roles include Health Psychologist Trainee, Research Assistant, Behaviour Change Specialist, and Public Health Advisor. This program provides the essential Stage 1 qualification accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), enabling progression to Stage 2 training toward becoming a Chartered Health Psychologist.
Key employability support and outcomes include:
University services feature dedicated careers and employability support, including access to placement opportunities, mentoring, and networking events tailored to psychology careers.
High graduate employability rates with about 90-95% employed or in further study within 15 months; competitive salary prospects reflect the specialized skills gained.
Strong partnerships exist with NHS trusts, public health bodies, and research institutions, offering placements and applied experience.
The course's BPS accreditation offers long-term professional value, serving as a prerequisite for Stage 2 professional training and registration.
Graduates report high satisfaction with their preparedness for professional practice and research roles, with many progressing to doctoral study or NHS assistant psychologist posts.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates typically move on to Stage 2 doctoral training in health psychology or pursue PhD research in health-related psychological science to attain chartered status or academic careers.
Applicants should normally have or expect to obtain at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in Psychology or closely related subject that is recognised by The British Psychological SocietyIndia- Bachelor degree with minimum 60% - 69% USA- For entry to postgraduate Master's programmes, you'll usually need to have a Bachelor's degree with a GPA of 2.6 /4 or above from a recognised Higher Education institution. IELTS band 6.5 (or equivalent) with no component score below 6.0.TOEFL- 72 with a minimum of: 18 in Reading 17 in Listening 20 in Speaking 17 in WritingStage 1 Trainee Health Psychologist (working towards Chartership) Health and Wellbeing Practitioner Research Assistant (in public healthuniversitiesor the NHS) Health Coach Interventions Researcher PhD Researcher Patient Experience Manager Public Health Officer Occupational Health Advisor Chronic Condition Management Specialist
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Portsmouth
 in Europe1779357712.webp)
