Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines core health psychology theory with applied research methods and practical skills for designing, evaluating and implementing interventions to promote health and manage illness. Teaching covers biopsychosocial models of health, behaviour change theories, psychological aspects of chronic illness, patient adherence and self-management, risk perception, and health communications.

• Core modules typically include Foundations of Health Psychology; Health Behaviour Change; Research Methods in Health Psychology; and Advanced Topics in Health Psychology.
• Research and quantitative methods emphasise statistics, experimental design, survey methods, and psychometrics, preparing you to analyse complex health data.
• Qualitative methods cover interviews, focus groups, thematic analysis and other approaches widely used in applied health research.
• Applied placements and projects may involve a supervised empirical dissertation or an applied placement with NHS or third-sector partners, allowing you to develop practical skills in assessment, intervention design, or service evaluation.
• Optional modules can include topics such as chronic illness and long-term conditions, health promotion, digital health interventions, and occupational or organisational aspects of health care.

The course is delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and research supervision, with assessments comprising essays, project reports, presentations and a substantial dissertation or applied research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in Psychology that confers Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS), or a closely related discipline with significant psychology content. Applicants without GBC but with relevant professional experience or additional qualifying study may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Typical entry also includes evidence of research competence (for example, a research methods component in the undergraduate degree), a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience, and academic references. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency to the level required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates with an MSc in Health Psychology pursue a variety of careers across clinical, research and public health settings. This qualification provides the knowledge and methods underpinning Stage 1 training for those aiming to become Chartered Health Psychologists (further accredited training and Stage 2 practice is required for professional registration).

• Careers include roles in NHS services (behaviour change programmes, long-term condition management, patient education), public health teams, health promotion and prevention, and third-sector health organisations.
• Many graduates work in research posts in universities, clinical trials units or policy organisations, contributing to evaluation and development of interventions.
• Other pathways include roles in health consultancy, industry (e.g. pharmaceutical or digital health companies), occupational health, and commissioning or service improvement roles within healthcare trusts.

Why study at Keele University

Keele combines a strong research culture in health psychology and behavioural science with close links to regional NHS services, offering opportunities for applied placements and collaborative research. The university is known for interdisciplinary working across psychology, medicine, health sciences and public health, which enriches teaching and provides diverse project opportunities.

Small-group teaching, experienced academic supervisors and access to Keele's research facilities and clinical partnerships support students in developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The programme is designed to be vocationally relevant while maintaining rigorous research training for those wishing to continue to doctoral study or specialist professional training.