University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules covering major domains of psychological science with intensive training in quantitative and qualitative research methods, and a supervised dissertation project. Typical topics include cognitive psychology, social and developmental psychology, biological bases of behaviour, and individual differences such as personality and psychopathology. Research-focused modules emphasise experimental design, statistics, data analysis using industry-standard software, and critical appraisal of the scientific literature.

Students usually take a mix of core and optional modules across two semesters, followed by a period dedicated to the independent research project. Core modules typically cover:

• Research Methods and Statistics – experimental design, multivariate statistics, and practical data analysis skills.
• Biological and Cognitive Psychology – neural and cognitive mechanisms underpinning perception, memory and attention.
• Social and Developmental Psychology – social cognition, group processes, lifespan development.
• Individual Differences and Psychopathology – personality, assessment, and models of mental health conditions.
• Professional and Ethical Issues – research ethics, data management, and professional practice.
• Dissertation – an extended empirical project supervised by academic staff, developing independent research skills.

Teaching is a mix of lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory classes and one-to-one supervision for the dissertation. Assessment methods include unseen and take-home exams, coursework and essays, laboratory reports, presentations and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree from a recognised university. Typical offers ask for a second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent; applicants with a lower-class honours degree plus relevant professional experience or prior postgraduate study may also be considered. Candidates from non-psychology backgrounds who want to convert into psychology are welcome, though some programmes may give priority to applicants with evidence of study or experience in a related discipline.

International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved qualification (for example an IELTS score commonly accepted by UK universities) unless exempt. Shortlisted applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement, references and evidence of relevant experience or motivation for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc Psychology use their training in a variety of careers. The degree provides a strong foundation for research careers (including progression to PhD study), roles in applied psychology settings, and professional training routes where a postgraduate qualification in psychology is advantageous. Common employment destinations include:

• Research assistant or data analyst positions in academic, public sector or commercial research teams.
• Further professional training routes such as doctoral programmes in clinical, educational or counselling psychology (subject to relevant entry requirements).
• Applied roles in health and social care, occupational psychology, human resources, marketing and user experience research.
• Forensic, rehabilitation and probation services, where knowledge of psychological assessment and behaviour change is valuable.

The research methods and statistics training provided by the programme is particularly valued by employers who need staff able to design studies, analyse complex data sets and communicate findings to non-specialist audiences.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester’s Department of Psychology combines active research programmes with a commitment to high-quality postgraduate teaching. Students benefit from supervision by academics working across cognitive, social, developmental, biological and applied areas of psychology, and have access to dedicated research facilities and laboratories.

Small-group teaching and laboratory classes ensure close contact with staff, and the university provides support services for postgraduate researchers including training in research skills, statistical support, and careers guidance. Leicester’s central location and links with regional health, education and industry partners also help students gain practical experience and make professional contacts while they study.

Overall, the MSc is designed to equip students with the theoretical understanding, methodological expertise and transferable skills needed for research and applied roles across the psychological sciences.