Psychological Research Methods

Entry requirements

Applying with prior qualifications

• You will need an undergraduate degree (minimum 2.1) in Psychology or a closely related discipline; or other recognised equivalent qualification.

Applying with non-standard entry qualifications/experience

• Applicants without such qualifications will be considered on an individual basis but will be required to demonstrate how their experiences and knowledge would enable them to study this course at Masters-level in their Personal Statement.
• Good performance in research methods and statistics classes and / or in the conduct and presentation of a research project are likely to act as a mitigating factor where a 2.1 has not been achieved at undergraduate level.

Other requirements

Your application form requires a written statement in which you should outline reasons for wishing to undertake the MSc / MRes Psychological Research Methods course. We will be looking to ensure that you have a sound rationale for joining the course based on a realistic appreciation of the discipline and profession of psychology.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This postgraduate degree is designed to prepare graduates in Psychology or related disciplines for a PhD, for research related careers in academic or applied psychological disciplines, or for careers in which data handling and analytic skills are of relevance.

You will be equipped with advanced skills in statistics, psychometrics, qualitative research methodologies, structural equation modelling, and observational methods. You’ll also develop skills in experimental and qualitative research design alongside the opportunity for practical experience using experiment generators, image and sound editing, and some of latest technological tools (e.g. EEG, eye-tracking, body motion capture) in Psychology.

• Tailor your learning to suit your future ambitions – choose between an MSc or MRes route depending on your preference.
• Prepare for your future with a course designed for future researchers, data handlers in industry and the public sector, or PhD candidates.
• With 3 set days in university each week (2 for part-time students), balance your studies around your other commitments such as part-time work.
• Benefit from excellent support from our academic team to enhance your learning.

Students undertaking this course have the choice between two qualifications – an MSc (Master of Science) or an MRes (Master of Research). Both awards are equivalent in their level of study, but have slightly different structures that allow students to focus on breadth of methods skills (MSc) or depth of research experience (MRes).

If you’re unsure of which route would suit you best, because of the shared first term we recommend applying to the MSc route, and then requesting a switch of award at the end of term 1, in consultation with your course leader and teaching team. A switch from MRes to MSc at the end of Term 1, is also possible.