MSc PSYCHOLOGY
The MSc in Psychology is a one-year, full-time advanced and intensive conversion degree scheme that combines the award of a Masters degree with eligibility for the Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society (BPS). The Graduate Basis for Registration is the minimum academic qualification required to enable you to work as a professional psychologist. Passing this scheme demonstrates that you have studied and acquired an advanced understanding in the core areas of psychology at Masters level.
The scheme provides you with critical and detailed understanding of the core areas of psychology, plus some specialisation. You will also learn research methods to an extent which will enable you to devise, analyse and carry out an empirical research project.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
To enter the MSc in Psychology the minimum requirement is a first degree (BA/BSc or equivalent) with a classification of 2.i or above.
Your first degree can be in any discipline. Because this is a Masters course you will need to demonstrate a high level of academic performance. Some knowledge of quantitative skills (e.g. in mathematics, statistics) is required.
This course is also suitable for those students who have obtained a Psychology degree to the required standard, but one that is not recognised by the BPS, and wish to gain an internationally recognised basic qualification in psychology.
If your first language is not English you must provide evidence of English language proficiency. The required standard is IELTS 7, TOEFL 600 (paper) or 250 (computer-based)). If your English does not quite reach this standard it may be possible to take a pre-sessional course which will bring your English up to the required standard.
In addition, for overseas students we recommend a 1-month pre-sessional course which will introduce you to the rigorous learning and assessment required by the University of Essex. This preparation will help you adjust to a new academic environment and study effectively from the very beginning of a demanding course. In some cases the Department may require applicants to take a 1-month presessional course.
SCHEME STRUCTURE
The scheme consists of eight taught courses of which six are compulsory basic courses at Graduate level (PS411, PS416, PS908, PS921, PS922, PS923. PS931). There is one specialist option, which may be drawn from our existing Masters programmes or may be the literature review course which allows intensive individual study of advanced topics. You will also take the PS908 course in Research Methods and Statistics which will run throughout the year, and complete an empirical research project (PS934-G-FY: Research Project (MSC) in the summer term.
Students will take the following courses:
PS416-7-SP: Personality and Individual Differences
PS923-7-SP: Advanced Social Psychology
PS931-7-SP: Advanced Developmental Psychology
Plus ONE option at Masters level taken from the list of available courses.
PS918-7-AU: Cognitive Neuropsychology of Language
PS926-7-SP: Advanced Reading Development and Dyslexia
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and the research project
The MSc in Psychology will provide you with an advanced and critical understanding of the core areas of psychology, as required by the BPS. You will also learn a range of research methods that will allow you to carry out your own empirical investigation under supervision. You will also develop practical skills and awareness of ethical issues.
The scheme will enable you to develop your skills in numeracy, information technology, communication and literacy.
