University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This conversion programme covers the fundamental domains of psychological science together with intensive training in research methods and statistics. You will study core theoretical and applied topics across cognitive, developmental, social, biological and individual differences psychology, alongside research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and professional and ethical issues in psychology.

• Core subject modules: introductory and advanced material in cognition, developmental psychology, social psychology, biological bases of behaviour, and individual differences (including personality and psychometrics).
• Research methods and statistics: training in experimental design, survey methods, data analysis using commonly used statistical software, and interpretation of research findings.
• Professional practice and ethics: modules covering ethical conduct, professional standards, and applications of psychology in different settings.
• Research project / dissertation: an independent empirical project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to apply methodological skills to a substantive research question.

The programme is usually available full-time (one year) and part-time (typically two years), combining taught modules with a substantial research component. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical labs, workshops and one-to-one supervision for the project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a subject other than psychology at a class equivalent to a UK second-class honours (2:1) or higher. Candidates with a lower classification or relevant professional experience may be considered on an individual basis. There are no formal requirements for prior study in psychology, as the programme is designed as a conversion route.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the level required by the University; typical routes include recognised English language tests or equivalent qualifications. You should consult the University of Nottingham admissions pages for the current English language benchmarks and documentation guidance.

Career prospects

Completion of the conversion MSc provides eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society, which is a necessary first step for many professional psychology careers in the UK. Graduates commonly progress to:

• postgraduate professional training (for example in clinical, educational, forensic or occupational psychology),
• research roles in universities, NHS trusts, charities and industry,
• applied roles in health, social care, education, human resources, marketing and user-experience research,
• positions in public services such as probation, rehabilitation and policy research.

The research and statistical skills developed on the programme are also valued in data analysis, evaluation and consultancy roles across sectors.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham School of Psychology combines active research groups with strong teaching provision and supervision for student projects. You will be taught by academics who work across a wide range of psychological disciplines and who often collaborate with local NHS services, industry partners and community organisations, offering opportunities to connect theory with practice.

Students benefit from dedicated facilities for behavioural research, access to statistical and laboratory resources, and a support network for academic skills, careers advice and wellbeing. The programme’s structure and established links with the British Psychological Society make it a recognised route for graduates aiming to enter professional training or research careers in psychology.