Master of Science in Psychology

Students will develop their understanding of key theories in cognitive psychology. Students' ability to think critically about these theories, especially in the context of empirical evidence will be facilitated. Research skills will be developed by running a cognitive psychology experiment and presenting these findings in a research report.

This module seeks to: 1. develop students’ systematic understanding of theories of cognitive and social development throughout the lifespan, 2. facilitate their abilities to think critically about these theories, especially in the context of empirical evidence, and 3. further develop their skills in locating primary sources, and to read, understand, critically evaluate and accurately communicate the relevant information.

This module provides students with systematic understanding of key theories of individual differences in the areas of personality, intelligence, motivation and emotion. It also develops students’ comprehensive understanding of how these topics can be scientifically investigated using appropriate research methodologies and foster students’ skills in the development of academic argument and critical evaluation in these core areas of psychology.

This module provides students with a systematic understanding of the theory and research relating to the role of biological mechanisms in behaviour, including an evaluation of the use of animal experiments in psychology, and a critical examination of the behavioural and environmental context of psychobiology and different levels of psychobiological analysis.

This module provides students with systematic understanding of theory and research relating to social cognition, social identity, and social behaviour.

This module is introduces students to methods of psychological investigation and to develop their ability to design such investigations, to understand the ethical implications of the methods used, and to assess the data collected. Each of these aims is associated with general competencies that are highly valued in employment settings (e.g., communication, numeracy, critical thinking). The module also aims to facilitate integration of students’ knowledge and understanding of research methods with their knowledge and understanding in core areas of psychology, e.g. cognitive or developmental psychology) and to provide students with a firm foundation for their Master’s level project.

This module supports the process of planning, carrying out, and writing up an independent empirical research project in any area of psychology (12000 words).