Umeå University

Overview

The Psychology with Specialisation in Health Psychology programme at Umeå University delves into how psychological processes impact health, illness, and healthcare through a comprehensive biopsychosocial lens. This master's programme aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical research skills essential for promoting health, preventing illness, and delivering patient-centred care.

What you'll study

This programme combines core concepts of health psychology with rigorous research methods and analysis. Key topics include:

• Health psychology lifestyle perspective
• Data collection and analysis
• Core psychology
• Cognitive science
• Behavioural science

Specialisation focus: The curriculum emphasizes a biopsychosocial understanding of health, encompassing prevention strategies, health-related behaviours, chronic illnesses, and patient experiences.

Capstone / final work: Students will engage in an advanced component, applying their research knowledge to address health psychology questions, culminating in a thesis or final project.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen (180 ECTS) from an internationally recognised university.
• Special requirements: 90 ECTS in health or behavioural science subjects, including physiotherapeutic and occupational therapeutic disciplines.

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score 90 (confirm the required minimum for your intake).
• Alternative accepted English qualifications may also be available (check the official requirements for the exact list).

Other requirements

• English proficiency equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.
• Application documents typically include your degree certificate/transcripts and proof of English proficiency, along with any additional documents requested by Umeå University.

Note: Specific application deadlines and start dates depend on the intake. Always verify the application cycle on the university’s official admissions page.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for various roles within the healthcare sector, including positions in health promotion, clinical psychology, and research. The skills acquired will enable them to contribute significantly to improving patient care and outcomes in diverse settings.