Embark on an MSc in Psychology and contribute to thrilling, internationally renowned research into the human mind and behaviour. Gain skills and experience in psychological research more and more in demand across wide a range of different industries.
Whether it's finding your niche or diving deeper into a chosen specialty, this course will equip you with the tools to navigate the complex world of psychological sciences and emerge as a professional ready to make a significant impact.
Taking an MSc in Psychology was the best choice I ever made. It was a thrilling year that sparked a deep passion and led me to an exciting career in organization development in India. My supervisors were incredibly supportive, and the courses were truly inspiring, shaping me into a stronger, more independent individual. This year was the highlight of my life—truly unforgettable!
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, in the first term you will typically complete the compulsory modules while in the second you will be able to choose from a range of optional modules. This is based on a full time Masters course. For part-time students we will devise a study plan in the first weeks tailoring your studies to your non-academic commitments.
Teaching in the first term focusses on core modules. The core modules are designed to promote development of skills in critical analysis, understanding interdisciplinary research, and scientific writing.
In the second term you will be able to choose from a range of optional modules. Some optional modules are shared across MSc programmes in the School of Psychology. You can find examples below.
In the final term you will undertake your dissertation using the knowledge you have gained in your first two term, honing in on your chosen topic.
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Our Psychology Masters degree is taught by research active, internationally renowned researchers who work at the cutting-edge of psychological science based in the Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH) and Centre for Developmental Science (CDS) with access to outstanding research facilities.
in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2027
in the QS World University Rankings 2027
We’re consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report
From developing health and education programs to conducting consumer research, the analytical, statistical, and communication skills honed during the course are invaluable. Our diverse teaching methods ensure a well-rounded educational experience, with assessments preparing you for the real-world challenges and choice of optional modules allowing you to tailor your own journey.
Taught modules – Our 20-credit modules are delivered through diverse teaching methods, including lectures, workshops, and journal clubs, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Research-based modules – Work on your own and in groups whilst you study 20-credit research modules. You’ll enjoy regular supervision and directed research work coupled with a 60-credit dissertation. Assessments – include formal and summative coursework and include essays, scientific reports, clinical case reports, scripting and oral and poster presentations.
The course is comprised of a series of taught core and optional modules. The core modules are designed to promote development of skills in experimental design, analysis, and scientific writing.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Data Science for Brain and Behaviour | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Research Methods & Skills in Psychology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Research Review in Psychology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Proposing Research in Psychology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| MSc Research Project (see relevant tab above for recent titles) | 60 |
If you are a transferring University of Birmingham undergraduate student and have completed Data Science for Brain and Behaviour, you have the option to choose between one of these modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Neuroscience Methods and Applications | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Modelling Change and Diversity: An introduction to structural equation modelling | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Neurodiversity | 20 | Semester 1 |
You must choose 40 credits of optional modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Translational Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Different Minds: Child and Animal Intelligence | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Application of Electrophysiological Approaches in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Clinical Psychology and Developmental Diversity | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Cognitive Neuroscience | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Mental Health 2 - Youth Mental Health | 20 | Semester 2 |
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
and have gained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the research dissertation.
You should have obtained a good Honours degree (at least 2:1 or equivalent) in Psychology or a related discipline and have gained at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the research dissertation (i.e., experience of planning and conducting research and analysing data).
Those who do not meet our requirement for a 2:1 in their final-year research project, but who have gained significant research experience in a psychology research lab(s) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The personal statement is an important part of your application. The personal statement should be no longer than one page. Failure to include the requested information in the personal statement will result in delays to processing the decision on your application.
For the MSc Psychology programme, briefly describe a completed or ongoing research project. This could be your final year undergraduate project or any other research project you contributed to.
Please describe any relevant academic or professional experience that make you a good candidate for this programme. What are your research interests? Briefly describe how your research interests fit within the areas of research expertise in the School of Psychology, University of Birmingham.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Full-time
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent). If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
To help you afford your studies, we offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. We also offer advice and guidance on searching for funding and managing your finances.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
An MSc in Psychology opens up diverse career opportunities in health, education, and consumer research. Gain analytical, statistical, and communication skills, making you a versatile professional. This degree also paves the way for PhD studies, providing a strong foundation for academic and research excellence. Start your journey into the human mind and unlock impactful career paths!
Graduates from this programme have gone on to work for organisations including:
• East London NHS Foundation Trust
• UCL
• Hereford Sixth Form College
• Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
• Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
• The Centre for Human Brain Health (CHBH)
• St Bartholomew's School, Newbury
• Newcastle University
• Invicro
• University of Toronto
Their job roles include:
• Clinical Psychologist
• Assistant Psychologist
• Research Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Psychology Teacher
• Senior Research Officer
• Psychotherapist
• Crisis Counselor
• Therapist/Forensic Interviewer
• Senior School Counsellor
Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.
Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:
We are one of the most consistently targeted UK universities by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2026). Read more about the achievements of our alumni and the way their university experience shaped their journey.
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